UN testing shows packaging has grit
Marc Martens
CurTec drums, pails, and jars are routinely subjected to drops from significant heights, under a range of temperatures—from room temperature to extreme cold—and in various positions, including on the base, side, and diagonally on the lid. But why?
Transporting hazardous materials places high demands on packaging. During transit, storage, and use, these products can be heavily stressed. Packages are stacked, shifted, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures. Any damage can result in Dead On Arrival (DOA) shipments, which not only cause financial loss but also harm a brand’s reputation. To prevent this, packaging undergoes extensive UN testing, which at CurTec is an integral part of the quality assurance of all our packaging.
What are UN tests?
UN tests are specifically designed to replicate the most severe and unpredictable transportation conditions. They are conducted according to international guidelines for the transport of hazardous materials. This includes both mechanical stresses, such as stacking, shocks, and drops, and environmental influences such as temperature and humidity.
These tests simulate scenarios such as:
- Bearing the prolonged weight of a stacked shipment of filled packages.
- Sudden maneuvers or drops during transport.
- Extreme temperatures, such as freezing conditions at -18°C, which place additional stress on the material.
For CurTec, this means every package must withstand these stress factors to maintain its UN certification.
Stacking and drop tests: proof of durability
A key part of UN testing is stacking and drop tests:
- Stacking test: a package must support the weight of a 3-meter-high stack for 24 hours without leaking.
- Drop test: the package is dropped from a height of 1.8 meters from various angles. Even after this test, no leakage is allowed.
Drop tests are performed at both room temperature and in freezing conditions, which rigorously challenge the performance of plastic packaging. Packages are filled and frozen to -18°C. These tests not only demonstrate strength and durability but also confirm consistent production quality.
UN certification and quality assurance at CurTec
Nearly all CurTec packages are UN-certified (1H2) and suitable for transporting hazardous solids. To maintain UN compliance, CurTec conducts drop tests during each production run using in-house equipment. These tests are a crucial part of the overall quality program, which also covers aspects such as food safety, UN markings, and comprehensive product integrity.
UN certification is more than a label; it is proof of reliability, safety, and continuous attention to quality. CurTec customers can be confident that their packaging meets the strictest international standards and ensures that their products arrive safely, dry, and undamaged.
Proof of UN accreditation
UN certification is part of a comprehensive quality program. Refer to the Regulatory Affairs Data Sheet for the most up-to-date content and information, or contact our Inside Sales team for proof of accreditation (a UN report).
At CurTec, we are happy to share insights on the safe transport of hazardous materials and innovative packaging solutions. Visit the knowledge section of our website for tips and background information on UN testing, safety, and logistics.
