Summary

ISTA 3N is a general simulation test for unitized loads shipped via a Full Truckload (FTL) distribution system within Europe. A unitized load is defined as one or more products or packaged-products secured together and handled as a single load, typically on a pallet.

The procedure is designed to evaluate how unitized loads of similar retail or institutional packaged-products perform when exposed to handling, compression, vibration and load stability challenges during truck transport.

Test Details

Packages will be subjected to the following tests:
  1. Atmospheric preconditioning at ambient laboratory conditions for 12 hours
  2. Optional atmospheric conditioning at anticipated temperature and humidity conditions for 72 hours
  3. Shock testing by incline impact or horizontal impact at 48 inches per second / 1.2 metres per second, impacting all four vertical faces
  4. Rotational edge drop testing, with levels varying based on package weight
  5. Vertical compression testing using a compression machine or weight and load spreader, with force maintained for 1 hour or applied and released
  6. Random vertical vibration testing without top load, at an overall Grms level of 0.296 for 3 hours
  7. Further rotational edge drop testing
  8. Optional short-duration shock testing for load stability, using incline impact with levelling wedge or horizontal impact, with speed based on risk tolerance

Types of packaging tested under this method
  • ISTA 3N covers unitized loads prepared for shipment via a Full Truckload (FTL) delivery system within Europe.
  • Typical examples include stretch-wrapped pallet loads of individual containers, non-packaged machines secured to pallets, or pallets fitted with corrugated trays, tubes and caps.

Please Note: The information outlined above is to be used as reference for ISTA 3N. Please refer to ISTA's website for full details.

Support for ISTA Distribution Testing

If you are considering testing to ISTA 3N, or would like support selecting the most appropriate distribution testing approach, Smithers can help. Our experts support organisations with transit simulation, packaging validation, and distribution testing programmes aligned with real-world supply chain conditions. Speak with a distribution testing specialist.
 

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