Test Method and Protocol Development

Test methods form the basis of laboratory testing, allowing repeatable, controllable and meaningful assessment of the physical performance of a packaged product. Whether it be routine validation testing or one-off technical investigation, using the correct test method is key to a successful assessment and to delivering the right conclusions for decision making.

See below for example test method development projects

Pira regularly undertakes testing in accordance with internationally recognized distribution test methods including ASTM D4169, ISTA procedures and projects, ISO, EN and BS standards. See our Package Test Procedure and Standards page for further details on our knowledge and use of recognized standards.

Tailored Testing and Focused Simulation Development

For many products, validation and troubleshooting requires a highly tailored laboratory assessment method to deliver a focused simulation, which takes account of product, pack and supply chain specifics. Focused tests often enable a more representative assessment of real life conditions when compared to using standard procedures, which by nature tend towards general distribution conditions.

Pira has been developing tailored test methods for global brand owners for more than 30 years, focusing on delivering realistic vibration, shock, compression and climatic hazards in the laboratory. Commonly the focused method development process includes:

• Development of technically diligent but pragmatic work program
• Clear definition of objective and scope
• Development of a work programme
• Site visits throughout the chain (point of manufacture, packing lines, palletization, warehousing, handling, distribution centers, retailer DCs back of store, front of store, point of sale)
• Hazard observation and identification
• Remote shock and vibration data acquisition
• Supply chain process mapping
• Rationalization of process and analysis of field data to produce tailored test method
• Validation of the new method in the laboratory.

Please also see Supply Chain Mapping and Vibration Field Data Measurement pages for further details on Pira's approach to developing tailored testing protocols.

Pira Test Protocol Development Projects Include

• Development of laboratory test for simulation of returnable glass bottle and crate system for African market, for a leading world wide drinks business
• Field measurement program across Eastern Europe and development of European test protocols for major household products brand owner
• Development of suite of tests in support of secondary packaging optimization for global packaging supplier, regional methods developed included Africa, South America, Asia and Europe
• Development of tailored handling tests for large office products range
• Development of a laboratory test to predict the effects of the railcar shipping environment for a US automaker - development was supported by continuous vibration and shock field monitoring allowing for a quantifiable level of confidence
• Fine tuning of a testing protocol for a large cereal manufacturer enabled a scientifically sound prediction of product settling as a result of distribution
• Development of component validation test plan for critical parts of medical laser devices.