Drick DRK123 PC Computer-Controlled Compression Tester for Corrugated Boxes

Overview

The Drick DRK123 PC Computer-Controlled Compression Tester is an electromechanical testing system engineered for precise and repeatable evaluation of compressive strength in corrugated fiberboard containers, single-wall and double-wall cartons, and other rigid packaging structures. It operates on the principle of controlled axial loading via a servo-motor-driven crosshead, applying force at programmable rates while continuously monitoring load-displacement response in accordance with standardized test methodologies including ISO 12048, ASTM D642, TAPPI T804, and GB/T 6543. Designed for laboratory and quality control environments, the instrument delivers high reproducibility across batch testing cycles and supports both peak load determination and progressive deformation analysis up to collapse or preset displacement limits.

Key Features

• Servo-controlled actuation system ensures consistent loading rates from 1–500 mm/min, adjustable in 0.1 mm/min increments for compliance with diverse standard protocols.
• Integrated high-precision load cell with ±0.5% full-scale accuracy (up to 20 kN capacity) and resolution of 0.1 N, traceable to national metrological standards.
• Large-format touchscreen HMI with embedded Windows-based controller enables intuitive test setup, real-time curve visualization, and on-device data review without external PC dependency.
• Automatic zeroing, pre-load application, and peak-hold capture functions reduce operator variability and support GLP-aligned documentation practices.
• Rigid four-column frame construction with hardened steel platens (200 × 200 mm standard, optional up to 500 × 500 mm) minimizes deflection under load and ensures uniform stress distribution.
• Compliance-ready firmware architecture supports audit trails, user-level access control (admin/operator modes), and timestamped test records exportable in CSV and PDF formats.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DRK123 PC accommodates specimens ranging from 100 × 100 mm to 400 × 400 mm in planar dimension and up to 1,000 mm in height, making it suitable for RSC, HSC, and custom-designed shipping containers. Platen parallelism is maintained within 0.02 mm/m per ISO 7500-1, ensuring valid stress-state conditions during compression. The system conforms to mechanical safety requirements per EN ISO 12100 and electromagnetic compatibility per EN 61326-1. Test reports generated meet documentation criteria for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories and support FDA-regulated packaging validation under 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with validated software configuration and electronic signature modules.

Software & Data Management

The embedded DRK-TestSuite v4.2 software provides comprehensive test method libraries—including ASTM D642 (static crush), ISO 12048 (edge crush test correlation), and custom multi-step protocols with dwell, ramp, and cyclic segments. All test data are stored locally with automatic backup to USB drive or network share. Raw force-displacement curves, statistical summaries (mean, SD, CV%), and pass/fail flags against user-defined specification limits are exportable. Optional cloud synchronization module enables centralized data aggregation across multi-site QC labs, with role-based dashboards for QA managers. Software validation documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ templates) and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance packages are available upon request.

Applications

• Corrugated box qualification for e-commerce fulfillment centers requiring ISTA 3A/6A-compliant packaging performance verification.
• Supplier qualification audits where compressive resistance data inform carton design optimization and material substitution decisions.
• Research into flute geometry effects (e.g., B-flute vs. BC-double wall) on vertical load-bearing capacity under ambient and conditioned (RH 50%, 23°C) environments.
• Regulatory submission support for pharmaceutical secondary packaging dossiers, particularly where stack-load integrity must be demonstrated per USP .
• Internal QC workflows in paperboard mills and converting facilities performing routine lot-release testing per TAPPI T811 or GB/T 6543-2008.

FAQ

Does the DRK123 PC comply with ASTM D642 and ISO 12048?
Yes — hardware geometry, load cell calibration traceability, and software test method templates are fully aligned with the latest revisions of both standards.
Can test data be integrated into an existing LIMS environment?
Yes — via configurable CSV/XML export or optional OPC UA interface for direct integration with major LIMS platforms including LabWare, Thermo Fisher SampleManager, and STARLIMS.
Is third-party calibration certification included with delivery?
A factory-issued calibration certificate (traceable to CNAS-accredited reference standards) is provided; optional UKAS/NIST-traceable calibration service is available at time of order.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Biannual verification of load cell linearity and platen parallelism is advised; annual preventive maintenance includes lubrication of lead screws, belt tension check, and firmware update verification.
Are custom platen sizes or environmental chamber integration options available?
Yes — non-standard platens (e.g., 300 × 300 mm, serrated surfaces) and climate-controlled test enclosures (−10°C to +60°C, 10–95% RH) can be configured as OEM options.