An instrument known as a Top Load Tester is used to
determine the maximum weight or force that a container, such as a box or a
carton, can support before collapsing. In most cases, the tester is made up
of a load cell or force sensor, a platform or platen for the container to
rest on, and a digital readout or indicator that shows the load or force
measurement. It provides the compressive buckling load that is used to test
the column crush characteristics of blown thermoplastic jars, bottles, and
containers in accordance with ASTM D2659.
In order to make sure that containers can withstand the loads and impacts
they will encounter during transportation and handling, the packaging
industry uses top load testers. Making sure the containers are sturdy enough
to protect the contents inside of them is a crucial quality control step in
the manufacturing process.
A load is typically applied to the top of the container during the test to
simulate the weight of the contents and any outside forces that the
container might encounter during transportation and handling. The test
results can be used to modify the packaging layout and make sure that the
containers are strong and durable enough to meet industry standards.