Ask X3What does 49 CFR 178.815 (Stacking test) require?
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According to 49 CFR 178.815, the stacking test is required for the qualification of all Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) design types that are intended to be stacked.
To conduct the test properly as a motor-carrier owner, follow these practical requirements:
* Special Preparation:
* Load all IBCs (except flexible types) to their maximum permissible gross mass.
* Fill flexible IBCs to at least 95 percent of their capacity and to their maximum net mass, with the load evenly distributed.
* Test Method & Duration:
* Place the IBC on its base on level, hard ground.
* Apply a uniformly distributed superimposed test load.
* Standard design qualification testing lasts for at least 5 minutes, with specific exceptions:
* 24 hours for fiberboard, wooden, and composite IBCs with outer packagings made of materials other than plastic.
* 28 days at 40 °C (104 °F) for rigid plastic IBCs and composite IBCs with plastic outer packagings (specifically types 11HH1, 11HH2, 21HH1, 21HH2, 31HH1, and 31HH2) that bear the stacking load.
* Applying the Load:
* Stack one or more IBCs of the same type (loaded to their maximum permissible gross mass) on top of the test IBC, OR place the calculated test load weight on either a flat plate or a reproduction of the IBC base stacked on the test IBC.
* Load Calculation: The applied load must be 1.8 times the combined maximum permissible gross mass of the similar IBCs that may be stacked on top of it during transportation.
* Periodic Retest Options:
* You may repeat the standard test method, OR use a dynamic compression testing machine at room temperature on an empty, unsealed packaging following the specific machine speed, preload (50 pounds), and formula requirements outlined in the regulation.
* Passing Criteria:
* There must be no loss of contents.
* There must be no permanent deformation that makes the IBC (including its base pallet, where applicable) unsafe for transportation.
* For flexible IBCs, there must be no deterioration that makes it unsafe for transportation.
* If using a dynamic compression test, the maximum deflection must not exceed one inch.