Simulation of packaging behaviour during air transport
The ASTM D6653 test determines how changes in pressure at altitude can affect rigid packaging.
As a laboratory, we understand the importance of simulating transport conditions on packaging. We are fully conversant with test protocols and guide companies through the implementation of these processes.
Control Sensei offers you the peace of mind of knowing that all your needs will be met. We are in constant communication throughout the testing process. Where packaging does not meet requirements, we help you find solutions.
Summary of the ASTM D6653 vacuum test method
The ASTM D6653 integrity test is used to determine the effects of pressure differences when packaged products are transported by certain modes of transport.
Vacuum tests apply to transport by cargo aircraft or overland transport via high mountain passes. The results of these tests are intended to be used for qualitative purposes.
Test procedure in accordance with ASTM D6653
The test specimen consists of an assembled packaging system, representative of a production package, or components of an assembled packaging system. It may be primary or secondary packaging.
Packaged products transported by the cargo aircraft network are likely to be exposed to altitudes of up to 19,000 feet. When exposed to these high-altitude conditions, packaging can be adversely affected by the resulting pressure difference. In aircraft bunkers, depressurisation occurs. This depressurisation corresponds to a rise in altitude of around 3,000 m, or around -300 mbar relative to atmospheric pressure.
The first thing to determine is the target altitude we want to test. If we choose 10,000 m, for example, we need to apply a negative pressure of 750 mbar (see table on the right).
So we place the packaging in the vacuum chamber and depressurise it.
The method recommends increasing the vacuum/depression by about 1000 ft (about 300 mbar) every 30 to 60s.
Once we’ve reached the target altitude, we need to maintain the vacuum for 60 min.
Of course, these values can be adapted to suit individual needs.
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ASTM D6653 packaging tests are useful for assessing the effect of altitude on packaging systems. This type of test can be used during the development or engineering phases of the packaging or product, or both. They can also be used when products arrive at end-customer sites in poor condition.
It is recommended that several specimens are tested using the same protocol for comparison purposes. This will determine whether the pressure difference has had an effect on the performance of the packaging system and whether the fault is systematic.
Our solution adapts to your needs
Our vacuum chambers are hermetically sealed, so you can maintain a vacuum for as long as you need.
Our test programmes have been adapted to make it easier to carry out the test. The input screen allows you to enter the starting altitude and the arrival altitude instead of entering the vacuum.
Other test methods
- ASTM D3078 – Immersion tests on flexible packaging
- ASTM D4991 – Tests on empty rigid packaging.
- ASTM D5094 – Tests on filled rigid packaging.
- ASTM D6653 – Altitude simulation on packaging
- ASTM F2096 – Internal pressurisation tests for packaging
- ISO 8871-5 annexe D – Dye penetration tests on medical packaging
- DIN EN 1779 – Non-destructive testing of flexible packaging