IABG is providing a new, high-performance infrastructure for testing containers for the transport and storage of dangerous goods and radioactive substances: After just under two years of construction, the new drop test facility at the Lichtenau site is entering service.

The test facility, at the centre of which is a 27 m high gantry crane with a load capacity of 2 x 65 t, is integrated into an extensive safety area and is impressive in its dimensions. The design enables experimental type tests within the framework of dangerous goods and nuclear licensing procedures in accordance with IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) specifications for test samples of up to 65 t.

The surrounding working areas are designed for heavy-duty traffic. In the near future, a test hall will allow work to be carried out independently of the weather. Air-conditioning The hoists of the crane system are designed in such a way that even extremely heavy and large test specimens can be turned over in a suspended position. This also allows tests of test samples with shock absorbers that must not be loaded before the drop test.units are available for conditioning the test samples, allowing temperatures between - 60 °C and + 80 °C to be maintained.

The hoists of the crane system are designed in such a way that even extremely heavy and large test specimens can be turned over in a suspended position. This also allows tests of test samples with shock absorbers that must not be loaded before the drop test.

First drop tests with several test samples up to a mass of more than 50 t have already been carried out successfully.. 

Technical data:

Test specimen
Max. weight    65 t
Max. lifting height    22 m

Impact foundations
Total weight    240 t
Impact plate    3 m x 3 m

Total weight     > 650 t
Impact plate    6 m x 4 m x 20 cm
Material    625 t Sreinforced concrete 

Crane system
Gantry crane 2 hoists of 65 t each
Track width    12,5 m

With our new large drop test facility, we make an important contribution to safety verification for our customers. We provide comprehensive advice and support along the entire process chain. Whether computational or experimental - with our independent and accredited laboratories we accompany all phases up to the approved and operational product.

More details on the new large drop test facility can be found here.