The Dead Weight Compression Tester investigates the effect of deformation, creep, collapse or failure. This is a part of a sequence of tests that measure the ability of a package. Thus, to withstand a distribution system that includes a compression hazard.
The Dead Weight Compression Tester can also investigate performance under particular conditions of loading. For example, when the bottom package in a stack rests on an open-decked pallet. The Tester has been designed and manufactured to test and asses the ability of packages to withstand the severity of handling.
Dead Weight Compression Test Principle
The complete, filled transport package is placed on a flat horizontal surface and a load placed upon it or is placed between the platens of a compression tester and compressed. The standard provides three methods for carrying out a stacking test on a complete, filled transport package, using a static load. The test may be used to assess the performance of a package in terms of its strength or the protection offered to its contents when it is subjected to stacking, whichever method is employed. It can either be performed as a single test or as part of a sequence of tests that are designed to measure the ability of a package to withstand a distribution system including a stacking hazard.
Apparatus
The Dead Weight Compression Tester is manufactured with the following components:
- Loading Platform: large, solid rigid platform used to support the weights
- Upright Stands: supporting stands used to connect to the loading platform
- Weights: placed on the loading platform through the guide rods, to make up the required capacity of the Dead Weight Compression Tester
Dead Weight CompressionTest Procedure
- Ensure testing is always carried out on a concrete floor
- Place the Dead Weight Compression Tester on the floor ready for testing at its location
- Remove the lifting plate and the weights from the loading platform
- Raise the loading platform using the locking levers on both sides
- Place the test package beneath the loading platform of the Dead Weight Compression Tester
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Using the locking lever, raise / lower the loading platform so that it rests on the package, ensuring the package is placed centrally beneath
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Fit the weights on the loading platform evenly in the guide rods provided
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With the load applied on the loading platform, leave the Dead Weight Compression Tester with the sample in place for the required period of time (usually 24 hours) or until collapse
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Remove the load, examine the package and report down the findings of the test.