ISO 13355:2016

Overview

ISO 13355:2016 - Packaging - Complete, filled transport packages and unit loads - Vertical random vibration test specifies a laboratory method for subjecting complete, filled transport packages and unit loads (test specimens) to vertical random vibration. The standard defines how to generate and control a random excitation (power spectral density, PSD), how to measure and report imposed accelerations, and how to assess package strength and protection of contents under vertical vibration hazards encountered in distribution.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope: Vertical random vibration test on complete, filled transport packages and unit loads; can be standalone or part of a test sequence.
• Excitation / PSD: Annex A gives a generic transport PSD (useful when field recordings are not available); Annex B provides PSDs derived from recorded data (Europe, Japan).
• Frequency range: Typical test band is 2 Hz to 200 Hz with at least 1 Hz resolution (lower end may be adjusted by agreement).
• Apparatus:
  • Vibration table with sufficient power, displacement and stiffness (table resonant frequency above the test band).
  • Measurement/control system (accelerometers, signal conditioners, data acquisition) capable of generating required PSD and controlling table acceleration.
  • Optional fences or means to retain test specimens and apply superimposed loads (per ISO 2234).
• Measurement & control:
  • Control accelerometer and closed-loop control to match PSD.
  • Data acquisition & control channels accurate to ±5% over the test frequency range.
  • Analysis performed with at least 120 statistical degrees of freedom.
• Procedure basics:
  • Condition specimens per ISO 2233; place specimen with CG near table center.
  • Start test 6 dB below target level to stabilize PSD, then raise to full level.
  • Tolerances: overall RMS acceleration variation ≤ ±15%; PSD deviation ≤ ±3 dB across the band; horizontal components ≤ 20% of vertical.
  • Minimum recommended test duration: 30 minutes per test attitude (generic PSD total RMS ~0.604 g).
• Reporting: Detailed test report requirements include specimen description (ISO 2206), PSD applied, frequency range, RMS values, conditioning, test duration, restraints, any deviations, and results/observations.

Applications and users

ISO 13355:2016 is used to:

• Validate packaging designs and cushioning for road, rail and multimodal transport.
• Qualify unit loads, pallets and crates for distribution vibration hazards.
• Support failure analysis, risk reduction, and return-cost minimization. Typical users:
• Packaging engineers and designers
• Independent test laboratories and certification bodies
• Supply chain/QA managers, logistics engineers
• Manufacturers of fragile or sensitive goods

Related standards

• IEC 60068-2-64 (random vibration theory and methods)
• ISO 2233 (conditioning of specimens)
• ISO 2206 (test specimen identification)
• ISO 2234 (superimposed load / stacking test)

Keywords: ISO 13355:2016, vertical random vibration test, packaging testing, power spectral density, PSD, vibration testing, transport packages, unit loads, packaging qualification.