4.1 Shipping containers are exposed to complex dynamic stresses when subjected to vibration present in transportation vehicles. Approximating the actual damage, or lack of damage, experienced in shipping may require subjecting the container(s) and contents to vibration inputs.

4.2 Resonant responses during shipment can be severe and may lead to failure of the container and spillage or leakage of contents. Identification of critical frequencies and the nature of package stresses can aid in minimizing the effect of these occurrences.

4.3 This vibration test method is used for the qualification of IBCs in CFR 49 and has demonstrated successful use in transportation.

4.4 Exposure to vibration can affect the shipping container, its means of closure, and its contents. This test method allows analysis of the interaction of these components. Design modification to one or more of these components may be utilized to achieve optimum performance in the shipping environment.

4.5 This test method is suitable for individual filled containers that are transported unrestrained on the bed of a vehicle.

4.6 This test method is not intended for testing intermediate bulk containers at a frequency that causes the container to go into resonance.

1.1 This test method covers vibration testing of filled intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) intended to contain liquid hazardous materials (dangerous goods) and is suitable for testing IBCs of any design or material type. This test method is required as part of the qualification of IBCs in accordance with the United States Department of Transportation Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UN).

1.2 This test method is appropriate for testing IBCs ranging from 450 to 3000 L (119 to 793 gal). Packagings of smaller sizes should be tested using Test Method D999 or other applicable methods.

1.3 The ISO 2247 standard may not meet the requirements for this test method.

1.4 This test method is based on the current information contained in 49 CFR, §178.819.

1.5 This test method is used to determine that the IBC maintains integrity and to prevent leakage or spillage of contents during shipping. This test method may also be used as a screening tool or as a design qualification test. Other vibration methods are available to more closely simulate vibration experienced in actual transportation.

1.6 When testing packaging designs intended for hazardous materials (dangerous goods), the user of this test method shall be trained in accordance with 49 CFR §172.700 and other applicable hazardous materials regulations such as the ICAO Technical Instructions, IMDG Code, and carrier rules such as the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 6.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.