Labthink C611B Compression Testing Machine for Corrugated Boxes and Hollow Containers
| Brand | Labthink |
|---|---|
| Model | C611B |
| Origin | Shandong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Max. Test Force | 9 kN |
| Load Rate Range | 0–200 mm/min |
| Platen Spacing | 0–600 mm |
| Platen Size | 450 mm × 450 mm |
| Force Accuracy | ±1% of reading (10–100% FS), ±0.1% FS (0–10% FS) |
| Force Resolution | 1 N |
| Deformation Resolution | 0.1 mm |
| Stroke | 450 mm |
| Specimen Height Range | 0–600 mm |
| Test Chamber Dimensions | 600 mm (L) × 600 mm (W) × 610 mm (H) |
| Overall Dimensions | 650 mm (L) × 810 mm (W) × 1620 mm (H) |
| Weight | 180 kg |
| Power Supply | AC 220 V ±10%, 50 Hz or AC 120 V ±10%, 60 Hz (selectable) |
Overview
The Labthink C611B Compression Testing Machine is an integrated, microprocessor-controlled electromechanical system engineered for high-reproducibility static compression testing of rigid and semi-rigid packaging structures. It operates on the fundamental principle of uniaxial compressive loading under controlled displacement rate, conforming to standardized mechanical test methodologies defined in ASTM D642 (determination of compressive strength of shipping containers), ISO 12048 (compression testing of corrugated fiberboard boxes), TAPPI T804 (box compression test), and GB/T 4857.4 (packaging—compression tests). The instrument applies precisely regulated axial force via dual precision recirculating ball screws driven by a high-torque DC servo motor, enabling stable load application across the full 0–200 mm/min speed range. Its primary function is to quantify compressive resistance, deformation behavior, and structural collapse thresholds of corrugated boxes, honeycomb containers, plastic drums, fiber drums, paper cans, and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), supporting both quality control and package development workflows in packaging engineering laboratories.
Key Features
- Integrated embedded computing platform with Windows-style GUI — no external PC required; operation via keyboard and optical mouse ensures intuitive navigation and rapid method setup.
- Dual high-precision ball screw drive system coupled with a brushless DC servo motor delivers smooth, low-vibration motion and precise speed control (±2% accuracy over full range).
- Triple 9 kN load cells (redundant configuration) provide robust force measurement with resolution of 1 N and traceable accuracy: ±1% of reading (10–100% full scale) and ±0.1% FS (0–10% FS).
- Real-time dynamic display of compressive force (kN), specimen deformation (mm), and time-stamped test curves during execution — all synchronized and stored with metadata.
- Comprehensive safety architecture including overload protection, end-of-travel limit switches, automatic fault detection, and audible/visual alarm signaling.
- Modular I/O interface: dual USB 2.0 ports and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port support data export, remote diagnostics, and integration into centralized LIMS or MES environments.
- Configurable test protocols: Crush Test, Stack Test A (constant-rate loading until deformation threshold), and Stack Test B (time-dependent deformation under constant load).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The C611B accommodates a broad spectrum of packaging geometries and materials, including single- and double-wall corrugated fiberboard boxes (RSC, HSC, FOL), honeycomb board containers, rigid plastic drums (HDPE, PP), fiberboard drums, paperboard cans, and reusable composite IBCs. Specimen height ranges from 0 to 600 mm, with a maximum platen spacing of 600 mm and platen surface dimensions of 450 mm × 450 mm. All test methods align with internationally recognized standards: ASTM D642, ASTM D4169 (performance testing of shipping containers), ISO 12048, JIS Z0212, GB/T 16491 (universal testing machines), GB/T 4857.4, and QB/T 1048–2004. Optional GMP-compliant software modules support 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, including electronic signatures, audit trails, user access controls, and immutable data archiving — validated for pharmaceutical packaging qualification per ICH Q5C and USP .
Software & Data Management
The embedded operating system features Labthink’s proprietary DataShield™ software framework (optional upgrade), enabling secure, role-based data governance across multi-site laboratories. Test parameters, raw sensor outputs, processed results (peak load, yield point, deformation at specified load, creep compliance), and annotated test curves are automatically timestamped and saved in encrypted binary format. Export options include CSV, PDF (with embedded signature fields), and XML for ERP/LIMS interoperability. Full audit trail functionality logs every user action — method modification, calibration event, result approval, or data deletion — meeting GLP and GMP documentation requirements. Data integrity is reinforced via SHA-256 hashing and digital watermarking to prevent tampering.
Applications
- Packaging Qualification: Validation of box compression strength prior to distribution, ensuring compliance with retailer-specified stacking requirements (e.g., Walmart, Amazon ISTA 3A).
- Material Development: Comparative evaluation of flute profiles, adhesives, moisture barriers, or recycled content impact on compressive performance.
- Process Optimization: Correlation of corrugation geometry, linerboard basis weight, and manufacturing parameters with structural stability metrics.
- Regulatory Submission: Generation of auditable test reports for FDA, EMA, or NMPA submissions related to primary and secondary packaging for sterile medical devices or pharmaceuticals.
- Supply Chain Risk Assessment: Simulation of warehouse storage conditions (static stack load, duration-dependent creep) using Stack Test B protocol.
FAQ
What standards does the C611B comply with for pharmaceutical packaging validation?
The system supports optional 21 CFR Part 11-compliant software modules, including electronic signatures, audit trails, and data integrity controls — fully aligned with FDA guidance on computerized systems used in GMP environments.
Can the C611B perform creep testing on plastic drums?
Yes — Stack Test B enables time-controlled constant-load application (up to 9 kN) with high-resolution deformation monitoring at 0.1 mm intervals, suitable for evaluating long-term dimensional stability of HDPE/PP containers.
Is calibration traceable to national metrology institutes?
All load cells are factory-calibrated against NIST-traceable reference standards; certificate of calibration (including uncertainty budget) is provided with each unit.
What is the maximum specimen weight the machine can accommodate?
While the system measures up to 9 kN (≈917 kgf), the practical upper mass limit is governed by platen stability and specimen geometry — typical maximum tested mass is 150 kg for uniform load distribution.
Does the system support automated pass/fail judgment based on user-defined limits?
Yes — configurable acceptance criteria (e.g., “deformation ≤ 5 mm at 5 kN”) trigger real-time PASS/FAIL indicators and auto-generate compliance flags in exported reports.
