ASTM D2463 is a test method that is well known to determine the toughness and impact resistance of blow-molded thermoplastic containers. In practice, containers in shipping or storage may be dropped or mishandled, thus fracturing, cracking, or leaking. This standard replicates such conditions to determine the performance limits of a container. ASTM D2463 offers reproducible results that can be used to represent realistic performance through the control of drop height, temperature, and conditioning parameters. This approach is also utilized by manufacturers in order to not only compare the types of materials, but also make the most optimal design of the containers in order to utilize more structural integrity and consumer safety.
ASTM D2463 Test Method
| Drop Height Determination | The container is filled completely and dropped to a known height, usually 4.9 feet (1.5 m), onto a rigid and flat surface. |
| Orientation and Impact Point | Individual samples are dropped to an oriented position (placed bottom, side, or corner) to test weak points subjected to the normal handling stresses. |
| Failure Criteria and Recording | Failure is indicated by container opening or leakage; the energy required to break or leak will be logged and used in statistical analysis. |