ASTM D3103 is a test method intended to evaluate the performance of thermal insulated packaging for high-value, high risk materials. This test can also be used for products that require accurate internal package temperature readings while being exposed to various external air temperatures. Certain products, like biological materials, pharmaceuticals, and blood products, must be shipped inside temperature regulated packages.

The scope of the ASTM D3103 test method covers the determination of:

• The thermal insulation quality of a package
• The thermal stability of the package’s contents in variable ambient temperature conditions
• The test can also account for packages with various internal energy sources with or without product payloads

Because of the many ways the performance of a thermally insulated package can be affected, testing should be conducted with the actual packaging that will be used during distribution of the product to ensure its thermal insulation quality.

Packaging Compliance Labs offers ASTM D3103 testing as part of our cold chain qualification services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ASTM D3103 evaluate?
ASTM D3103 covers the determination of the thermal insulation quality of a package and the thermal stability of its contents when exposed to variable ambient temperature conditions. It is suitable for testing packages with various internal energy sources with or without product payloads.