What are the differences between ISTA procedures and ASTM standards?

09 Sep 2010

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	What are the differences between ISTA procedures and ASTM standards?

Solution ASTM International has a group which is concerned with packaging (designated Committee D10). Most of the ASTM packaging tests are for various material properties or are "test methodologies"; i.e. the considerations and steps needed to run a particular type of test, such as a drop test. In this case they don't tell you what drops to perform or the orientations or drop heights, but do detail the general procedure, type of equipment, equipment installation, accuracy and repeatability, documentation, etc.

There is only one ASTM standard devoted to packaged-product performance in distribution, and that is D4169. It is a pre-shipment General Simulation test covering a range of package types and distribution scenarios. The user must choose from tests, alternatives, intensities, sequences, and specific procedures based on packaged-product and distribution characteristics. It's complex, and there are some gaps and difficulties, but an experienced user can create from D4169 a test plan that will be a good general laboratory simulation of the selected distribution cycle.

Typically, testing to ASTM D4169 involves rather sophisticated, extensive, and expensive equipment, and relatively skilled operators.

The mainstream ISTA tests are all pre-shipment test procedures; i.e., tests to compare or evaluate the effectiveness of protective packaging and/or a packaged-product’s ability to withstand the hazards of distribution. ISTA classifies procedures and projects in Series:

ISTA Series 1 are Non-Simulation Integrity tests that evaluate the ruggedness of product and package but don't necessarily simulate what happens in actual distribution. The tests require relatively simple and inexpensive equipment, simple procedures, and minimal operator skills.

ISTA Series 3 are General Simulations that are based on broad definitions of the hazards of distribution. Equipment and operator skill requirements are similar to D4169. Unlike D4169, however, there are individual specific Procedures, covering a number of packaged-products and distribution systems, so much less interpretation is required.

ISTA Series 5 are Focused Simulations, based on user-measured or observed hazards, sequences, intensities, etc. This series is intended for the highest-value products, and/or the most demanding situations. Equipment and operator requirements are much like the 3 Series, but test design requires thorough knowledge and complete information.

ISTA Series 2 and 4 are combinations of the Series above and below, with elements of each.

In Summary:

ASTM has one performance test protocol, intended to cover essentially all situations. It may be difficult to understand and use, but can be effective if properly applied. It requires relatively expensive equipment and skilled operators.

ISTA offers a variety of test protocols, often tailored to specific situations. The different Series give the user a choice of cost, complexity, and operator skill requirements. All Procedures are in a "mapped" (step-by-step) format for easy interpretation.

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08 Sep 2008 05:25 PM