Adding Packaging Testing Capability to a Laboratory
Adding packaging testing usually covers distribution simulation (drop, vibration, compression), material tests and, for sterile medical packaging, seal strength and package integrity. Define whether you need development screening or formal qualification before specifying equipment.
What is this capability?
Packaging testing verifies that a package protects its contents through distribution and storage, and that seals and barriers perform.
Typical equipment (categories)
- Drop tester
- Vibration table
- Compression tester
- Seal strength tester
- Package integrity equipment (e.g. dye, bubble or vacuum decay)
Supporting equipment
- Conditioning chamber
- Accelerated aging chambers
- Materials testing for film tensile and burst
Facility considerations
Floor space and foundation for vibration and compression equipment, conditioning at controlled temperature and humidity.
Calibration and service
Vibration and force calibration, chamber temperature and humidity verification.
Before bringing it in-house, decide
- Which methods and standards you must run, and whether customers require accredited results
- Realistic annual sample volume and how steady it is
- Who will operate, calibrate and maintain the equipment — and who covers when they are away
- Whether the space, utilities and environmental control are adequate today
- Whether outsourcing until volumes are proven is the lower-risk first step
Common questions
- Do we need ISTA certification to run ISTA tests?
- ISTA offers lab certification; some customers require it. Check what your customers accept.
- Does Laboratory Vortex supply the equipment?
- No. Laboratory Vortex is a discovery and request platform. Submitting a lab project helps identify equipment suppliers and service providers; you contract with them directly.