Test Purpose
This test is used to determine if a finished or unfinished article can withstand a free-fall impact without producing any significant fire or explosion hazards. The test is not intended to evaluate whether the unit can withstand the actual impact. The article is dropped at an orientation in which it is most likely to function on impact. Three drops are made on identical units unless a decisive event (e.g. fire or explosion) occurs earlier. A test result is considered positive if evidence of initiation is identified. A rupture of the casing alone is not considered a positive result.
If an unfinished article fails this test, further testing is not required. The classification of that article is a 1.1, mass reaction hazard.
Equivalence
This test is similar to Test 4 (b) (ii) in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.
Key Parameters
| Key Parameter | Objectives | Origin | Specs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop height to bottom of test unit | Provide an impact to the unfinished article with sufficient energy as liable to occur during normal conditions in the process | 12 meters is the potential drop height while loading a cargo ship. NOTE: Approximate speed upon impact is 55 km/hr (34 mph). | Highest credible drop height: 12 meters (40 feet) if transported on-site or in an elevator |
| Number of trials | Sufficient to give a reasonable level of confidence in the reproducibility of the test results | 3 trials | |
| Impact surface (construction and size) | Provide a solid base with a reasonably smooth surface for maximum effect that is large enough for free-fall impact with associated variables | Example of a solid base is a steel plate, at least 75mm (3-in) thick with a Brinell hardness not less than 200, on a concrete foundation, 600mm (24-in) thick minimum; the length and width of the impact surface not less than 1.5 times the unit being dropped | |
| Impact attitude | Impact attitude should be such that will most likely result in a reaction | TB 700-2 (2012): Dropped in three different orientations: major axis vertical, nose down; major axis vertical, base down; major axis horizontal |
Indicators
| Indicators | Detection Method | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Fire or explosion | Observation of test; video camera evidence | Fire or explosion [IP Division 1.1] |
| Rupture of the casing | Visual post-test inspection | May be noted but is not considered a positive result by itself. |
No Explosion (-) Example Photo
