Our expertise allows us to evaluate appropriate compression test parameters to ensure a realistic and meaningful assessment associated climatic conditions as well as other pallet stacking issues. We are highly experienced in ISTA and ASTM D4169 standard evaluations.

A packaging box being squashed during a compression test.

In addition to these common standards, our experts have developed enhanced compression testing techniques to help clients determine the effect of time on the compression resistance of packaged products. Our enhanced compression testing methodology is conducted as follows:
  • Leverage constant rate compression testing methods at varying speeds to assess the time of failure loads
  • Leverage collected data to predict the amount of force required to cause failure in about 5 days
  • Utilize the predicted failure force and conduct a 5 day stack test
  • Leverage collected data to predict the amount of force required to cause failure in about 2 months.
Our experts use the data acquired from a series of specified compression tests to evaluate package integrity and performance measures. The compression rates are based on ASTM D642 with platen speeds of 0.1, 0.5 and 5 inches per second. Scatter plots are developed based on the compression data collected.

Traditional Compression Tests vs. Smithers Enhanced Compression Tests

Traditional Compression Tests Smithers Enhanced Compression Tests
Provides quantitative data to define a maximum compression resistance Provides quantititative data to predict actual compression resistance in the field and can be used as an alternative to an actual long term stacking test
Leverages industry standard risk and compliance factors Provides quantitative data to predict a creep factor. The creep factor can be used to understand how your specific packaging format responds to compression over time. 
Provides quantitative data to define a maximum compression resistance at an elevated condition Provides quantitative data to predict an environmental factor. The environmental factor can be used to understand how your specific packaging format responds to compression at various environmental conditions.

Download a brochure for more information:

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