Electrodynamic Shaker Systems for Vibration Testing of Packaging
Materials according to FED - STD - 101
In the vast landscape of product distribution, packaging materials
play a crucial role in safeguarding products during transportation
and storage. From delicate electronics to perishable goods, the
integrity of the packaging is directly related to the safety and
quality of the items within. The FED - STD - 101 standard provides
a comprehensive set of guidelines for vibration testing of
packaging materials, and an electrodynamic shaker system designed
to meet this standard has become an indispensable asset in the
packaging industry.
1. The Significance of Vibration Testing for Packaging Materials
Protecting Products During Transit
Packaging materials are exposed to a wide variety of vibrations
during the journey from the manufacturer to the end - user. When
packaged products are loaded onto trucks, trains, or ships, they
experience vibrations from the vehicle's engines, uneven road or
sea surfaces, and the operation of cargo - handling equipment.
These vibrations can cause damage to the products inside,
especially fragile items. For example, a smartphone in a poorly
designed package may be subject to internal component displacement
due to vibrations during transportation. Vibration testing, as per
the FED - STD - 101 standard, aims to simulate these real - world
vibrations in a controlled laboratory environment. By subjecting
packaging materials to vibrations, manufacturers can identify
potential issues such as insufficient cushioning, weak seals, or
improper material selection that could lead to product damage. This
allows for preventive measures to be taken, protecting the products
and reducing financial losses associated with damaged goods.
Ensuring Packaging Integrity
The integrity of packaging materials is not only important for
protecting the product but also for maintaining the overall quality
of the packaging. Continuous exposure to vibrations over time can
lead to wear and tear in the packaging, such as tearing of
cardboard boxes, loosening of adhesive seals, or deformation of
plastic containers. A damaged package not only poses a risk to the
product but can also create safety hazards during handling and
transportation. Vibration testing helps in evaluating the long -
term durability of packaging materials. By subjecting packaging to
vibration profiles that mimic the harsh conditions of
transportation, manufacturers can detect early signs of weakness.
This enables them to improve the design and construction of
packaging materials, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of
repeated use and extended transportation.
2. Understanding the FED - STD - 101 Standard
Key Requirements of the Standard
The FED - STD - 101 standard outlines specific requirements for
vibration testing of packaging materials. It defines the vibration
profiles, including the frequency range, amplitude levels, and test
duration. The frequency range typically spans from a few hertz to
several hundred hertz, covering the spectrum of vibrations that
packaging materials may encounter during different modes of
transportation. The amplitude levels, measured in terms of
acceleration (g), are carefully calibrated to simulate the
intensity of vibrations in real - world scenarios. For example, the
amplitude levels for a package on a rough - road truck journey will
be different from those on a relatively smooth train ride. The test
duration is also clearly defined, ensuring that the packaging
materials are subjected to sufficient vibration exposure to
accurately assess their long - term durability.
Standardization for the Packaging Industry
This standard plays a vital role in standardizing the vibration
testing process across the packaging industry. It provides a common
framework for manufacturers, shippers, and testing laboratories. By
adhering to the FED - STD - 101 standard, all stakeholders can
ensure that packaging materials are tested in a consistent and
comparable manner. This promotes fair competition among packaging
material manufacturers and helps in maintaining a high level of
quality in the packaging industry. It also simplifies the process
of certifying packaging materials for safe use, which is essential
for product distribution.
3. How the Electrodynamic Shaker System Works
Working Principle of the Electrodynamic Shaker
An electrodynamic shaker system for packaging material testing
operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. It consists
of a moving coil suspended within a magnetic field generated by a
permanent magnet or an electromagnet. When an electrical current is
applied to the moving coil, according to Fleming's left - hand
rule, a force is generated that causes the coil to move. This
movement is then transferred to the shaker table, on which the
packaged product or a representative test specimen is placed. To
generate the vibrations required for packaging material testing,
the electrical current supplied to the coil is adjusted in such a
way that the frequency and amplitude of the resulting vibration can
be precisely controlled. The randomness of the vibration, if
required by the FED - STD - 101 standard for certain tests, is
achieved by using a random signal generator to control the
electrical current.
Components of the Electrodynamic Shaker System
The electrodynamic shaker system comprises several key components.
The power amplifier is responsible for supplying the necessary
electrical power to drive the moving coil. It takes a low - level
control signal from the controller and amplifies it to the high -
power levels required to generate significant vibrations. The
controller serves as the brain of the system. Operators can input
specific vibration parameters into the controller, such as the
frequency range, amplitude, and the type of vibration profile
(e.g., sinusoidal, random). The controller then generates the
appropriate control signals to the power amplifier. The shaker
table is designed to be a large, flat, and rigid platform to ensure
uniform vibration transfer to the packaged product or test
specimen. Additionally, sensors, such as accelerometers, are placed
on the shaker table and the package to measure the actual vibration
levels. These sensors provide feedback to the controller, enabling
real - time adjustments to maintain the desired vibration profile
as per the FED - STD - 101 standard.
Rated Sine/ Random/ Shock Force | 3,000 kgf/3,000kgf/6,000 kgf | Armature Mass | 30 kg |
Frequency Range | 5-3,000 Hz | Inserts Size (Standard) | M10 |
Max./ Continuous Displacement p-p | 51 mm/51 mm | Load Attachment Points (Standard) | 17 |
Max.Velocity | 2.0 m/s | Natural Frequency-Thrust Axis | <3Hz |
Max.Sine/ Random Acceleration | 100/60g | Max. Vertical Load Support | 500 kg |
Armature Diameter | 440 mm | Stray field @152 mm above table | ≤1mT (10 gauss) |
Fundamental Resonance Frequency | 2t500Hz(nom.)±5% | Dimension LxWxH | 1,270 mmx980mmx1,135mm |
Allowable Armature Overturning Moment | 500 Nm | Weight (Uncrated) | 2,500 kg |
4. Performance Features of the FED - STD - 101 Compliant
Electrodynamic Shaker System
High - Precision Vibration Control
To meet the FED - STD - 101 standard, the electrodynamic shaker
system must offer high - precision vibration control. The frequency
accuracy is typically within ±0.1% of the set value, ensuring that
the generated vibrations cover the exact frequency range specified
in the standard. The amplitude control is also highly accurate,
with an accuracy of around ±1% of the set acceleration value. This
level of precision is essential for accurately simulating the real
- world vibration conditions that packaging materials experience.
For example, when testing the packaging of a high - value glassware
product, the shaker system needs to precisely reproduce the
vibration levels that could cause the glass to break during
transportation.
Wide Dynamic Range
The ability to cover a wide dynamic range is another important
feature. Packaging materials may experience vibrations with very
low amplitudes during normal transportation on well - maintained
roads or in calm sea conditions, and relatively high amplitudes
during rough - road travel or in stormy seas. The electrodynamic
shaker system needs to be capable of generating vibrations across
this wide range. It should be able to simulate the gentle
vibrations during normal handling as well as the more intense
vibrations during extreme conditions. A wide dynamic range ensures
that all possible vibration scenarios can be effectively tested.
Robust and Reliable Construction
Given the repetitive and demanding nature of vibration testing for
packaging materials, the electrodynamic shaker system is built with
robust and reliable construction. The shaker table and other
mechanical components are made of high - strength materials such as
steel to withstand the high forces generated during vibration
testing. The electrical components, including the power amplifier
and controller, are designed to operate continuously under high -
stress conditions without degradation. The system is also equipped
with safety features, such as overload protection and emergency
stop mechanisms, to protect the test specimen, operators, and the
equipment itself. This robust construction ensures that the
electrodynamic shaker system can perform a large number of tests
over its lifespan without significant maintenance, reducing
downtime and increasing the efficiency of the testing process.
5. Applications of the Electrodynamic Shaker System in Packaging
Material Testing
Testing of Consumer Product Packaging
In the consumer product sector, the electrodynamic shaker system is
widely used to test packaging materials for a variety of products,
from food and beverages to electronics and cosmetics. For example,
when developing a new packaging design for a bottled beverage, the
shaker system can be used to test the ability of the package to
withstand vibrations during transportation. By subjecting the
packaged beverage to vibrations, manufacturers can determine if the
bottle cap remains secure, the label stays intact, and the product
inside is protected. This helps in improving the overall quality
and consumer acceptance of the product.
Evaluation of Industrial Product Packaging
Industrial products often require more robust packaging due to
their size, weight, and sensitivity. The electrodynamic shaker
system is used to test packaging materials for industrial products
such as machinery parts, automotive components, and industrial
chemicals. For a large - scale industrial machine part, the
packaging is tested to ensure it can protect the part from
vibrations during long - distance transportation. The shaker system
can simulate the vibrations from different modes of transportation,
such as trucks, trains, and ships. This helps in ensuring that
industrial products arrive at their destination in good condition,
reducing production delays and costs associated with damaged goods.
Development of Packaging for Fragile and High - Value Items
For fragile and high - value items, such as fine art, jewelry, and
high - end electronics, the packaging must provide maximum
protection. The electrodynamic shaker system is used to test the
effectiveness of specialized packaging materials, such as custom -
designed foam inserts and high - strength cardboard boxes. For
example, when packaging a high - value piece of art for shipping,
the shaker system can simulate the vibrations that the package may
encounter during air travel. By subjecting the packaged art to
these vibrations, manufacturers can ensure that the packaging
provides sufficient cushioning and protection, minimizing the risk
of damage during transit.
6. Conclusion
The FED - STD - 101 compliant electrodynamic shaker system is an
essential tool in the packaging industry. By accurately simulating
real - world vibrations, it enables manufacturers to evaluate and
improve the performance of packaging materials. With its high -
precision vibration control, wide dynamic range, and robust
construction, this system plays a crucial role in maintaining the
quality and integrity of packaged products during transportation.
If your business is involved in the packaging material
manufacturing, product distribution, or quality control, investing
in a high - quality electrodynamic shaker system that meets the FED
- STD - 101 standard can significantly enhance the safety and
reliability of your products. Consider reaching out to our team of
experts to explore how our electrodynamic shaker systems can be
tailored to your specific packaging material testing needs.