Ask X3What does 49 CFR 178.602 (Preparation of packagings and packages for testing) require?
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According to 49 CFR 178.602, the preparation and closure of packagings and packages for testing require the following:
* General Closure: Each packaging and package must be closed for testing in the exact same manner as if prepared for actual shipment and transportation, including any inner packagings for combination packagings. All closures must be installed using proper techniques and torques.
* Filling Requirements (Drop and Stacking Tests):
* Inner and single-unit receptacles (other than bags) must be filled to at least 95% of their maximum capacity for solids, and at least 98% of their maximum capacity for liquids.
* Bags containing solids must be filled to the maximum mass at which they may be used.
* Test Materials:
* The actual material to be transported can be replaced by a non-hazardous material (such as water for liquid drop tests), provided it is not for chemical compatibility testing and will not invalidate the results.
* Any substitute material must have the same or higher specific gravity as the hazardous material, and its physical properties (like grain, size, and viscosity) must match the hazardous material as closely as possible.
* Additives (like bags of lead shot) can be used to reach the required total package mass, as long as they are positioned so they do not affect the test results.
* Conditioning for Paper or Fiberboard: Paper or fiberboard packagings must be conditioned for at least 24 hours immediately before testing under specific temperature and humidity atmospheres (or at ambient conditions if testing at periodic intervals other than initial design qualification).
* Wooden Barrels: Bung-type barrels made of natural wood must be left filled with water for at least 24 hours prior to testing.