Drick DRK-GB/T21661 Retail Shopping Bag Fatigue Tester

Overview

The Drick DRK-GB/T21661 Retail Shopping Bag Fatigue Tester is an electromechanical testing instrument engineered for standardized cyclic load evaluation of handle systems in retail packaging—specifically plastic shopping bags, non-woven carry bags, paper shopping bags, and refuse sacks. It operates on the principle of controlled vertical reciprocating motion, simulating repetitive lifting and carrying actions encountered during consumer use. The device subjects test specimens to defined mechanical stress by suspending a standardized mass (2× nominal fill weight) within a partially filled bag (75% volume), then applying sinusoidal displacement at a fixed amplitude (30 mm) and frequency (2.2 Hz). This methodology aligns with the fundamental fatigue assessment paradigm used in packaging durability standards, where failure is defined as visible rupture or separation at the handle attachment zone—not tensile strength alone, but functional integrity under repeated dynamic loading.

Key Features

• Programmable test modes: user-selectable cycle count, elapsed time, or load-weight configuration to support method flexibility across internal QA protocols and third-party verification workflows.
• Automatic termination logic: real-time load monitoring detects abrupt tension loss indicative of handle failure; system halts immediately and logs final cycle count with timestamp.
• Dual-axis rigid frame construction with linear guide rails ensures consistent stroke repeatability and minimizes lateral deviation during prolonged operation (>10,000 cycles).
• Digital counter with non-volatile memory retains test history even after power interruption—critical for audit-ready documentation in GLP-compliant laboratories.
• Modular hanging fixture design accommodates variable bag geometries: adjustable clamps for flat-bottom, gusseted, and die-cut handle configurations without tooling changeover.
• Integrated safety interlock prevents actuator activation when access door is open, complying with IEC 61000-6-2 electromagnetic immunity and basic mechanical safeguarding requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DRK-GB/T21661 is validated for use with polyethylene (HDPE/LDPE), polypropylene (PP), laminated non-woven fabric, kraft paper, and biodegradable polymer-based retail bags. It meets the physical test execution requirements of GB/T 21661–2023 “Plastic Shopping Bags”, GB/T 18893–2002 “Retail Packaging Bags”, BB/T 0039–2018 “Retail Packaging Bags”, and GB/T 21662–2008 “Rapid Testing Methods and Evaluation for Plastic Shopping Bags”. While not a certified reference standard instrument per ISO/IEC 17025, its mechanical specifications—including amplitude tolerance (±0.5 mm), frequency stability (±0.05 Hz over 8-hour operation), and counter accuracy (±1 count)—are traceable to national metrological standards via factory calibration reports supplied with each unit.

Software & Data Management

The tester operates via embedded microcontroller firmware (v3.2+) with local LCD interface—no PC dependency required for routine operation. All test parameters and results are stored internally in CSV-compatible format and exportable via USB 2.0 port. Optional Drick LabLink™ software (Windows 10/11 compatible) enables batch report generation, statistical process control (SPC) charting (X̄-R, Cpk), and integration with LIMS platforms through configurable ODBC drivers. Audit trail functionality records operator ID, parameter changes, and pass/fail determinations—supporting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with electronic signature modules and time-stamped digital certificates.

Applications

• Quality assurance labs verifying conformance of supplier-submitted plastic shopping bags against GB/T 21661 clause 6.4 (handle fatigue resistance).
• R&D departments evaluating comparative fatigue life of novel bio-based polymers versus conventional PE blends under identical dynamic loading conditions.
• Contract testing facilities performing accredited testing per CNAS-CL01:2018 (equivalent to ISO/IEC 17025) for certification bodies issuing CCC or Green Product labels.
• Production line end-of-line stations conducting 100% sampling for high-volume non-woven bag manufacturers—configured for rapid cycle setup (<60 s per specimen).
• Academic packaging engineering programs using the apparatus for student experiments on viscoelastic deformation mechanisms in thermoplastic handles under cyclic strain.

FAQ

What is the maximum bag height the DRK-GB/T21661 can accommodate?
The vertical test chamber provides 1000 mm of unobstructed clearance, supporting bags up to 850 mm in total height—including suspended load and fixture extension.
Does the instrument comply with international standards such as ASTM DXXXX or ISO 2233?
It is designed specifically for Chinese national standards (GB/T, BB/T). While no direct ASTM or ISO equivalent exists for handle fatigue of retail bags, its kinematic profile (30 mm amplitude, 2.2 Hz) falls within the operational envelope referenced in ISO 2233 Annex B for simulated manual handling tests.
Can the vibration frequency be adjusted beyond 2.2 Hz?
No—the drive mechanism is fixed-frequency to ensure strict adherence to GB/T 21661 test conditions; variable-frequency operation would invalidate compliance with the standard.
Is calibration service available outside China?
Yes. Drick maintains authorized calibration partners in Germany (DAkkS-accredited), USA (A2LA-certified), and Singapore (SAC-SINGLAS); annual recalibration kits and remote verification protocols are provided upon request.
How is specimen failure objectively determined?
Failure is defined as complete separation of the handle from the bag body or visible tearing extending ≥5 mm from the heat-seal or stitching line—verified visually per GB/T 21661 Section 7.3, with optional digital microscope integration for borderline cases.