ISO 17712 is an international standard that specifies requirements for mechanical seals used on freight containers, such as bolt seals, to provide tamper evidence and security during transportation. These seals are designed to prevent unauthorized access to cargo, deter theft, and ensure the integrity of goods during transit. The standard outlines various testing procedures to ensure that bolt seals meet the required security and performance criteria. In this article, we will delve into the specific testing procedures for bolt seals under ISO 17712.
Physical Strength and Durability Testing:
One of the key aspects of ISO 17712 testing is evaluating the physical strength and durability of bolt seals. This involves subjecting the seals to various mechanical stresses to ensure they can withstand handling, vibration, and environmental conditions during transit. The testing includes:
- Tensile Strength Test: Bolt seals are subjected to a tensile test to measure their breaking strength. The seal is pulled in opposite directions to assess its resistance to tampering or removal.
- Impact Test: This test simulates the impact of a fall or collision that the seal might experience during transportation. The seal is dropped from a specified height onto a hard surface, and its integrity is examined.
- Vibration Test: Bolt seals are exposed to vibrations similar to those experienced during transportation. This test ensures that the seals remain securely fastened and tamper-evident under such conditions.
Tamper Evidence Testing:
Tamper evidence is a crucial aspect of bolt seals, as they are designed to provide visible signs of tampering. ISO 17712 mandates the following tamper evidence tests:
- Visual Inspection: The seal is visually examined before and after testing to assess any visible signs of tampering or unauthorized access.
- Tamper Resistance Test: Testers attempt to tamper with the seal using various tools, techniques, or force. The seal should exhibit clear evidence of tampering, such as deformation or visible damage, when such attempts are made.
- Environmental Exposure Test: Bolt seals are exposed to different environmental conditions, including temperature extremes, humidity, and exposure to chemicals. The seals must retain their integrity and tamper-evident features under these conditions.
Chemical Resistance Testing:
Bolt seals may come into contact with various chemicals during transportation and storage. ISO 17712 includes tests to assess the resistance of seals to chemical exposure, ensuring they remain functional and tamper-evident:
- Corrosion Test: The seal is subjected to a corrosive environment to evaluate its resistance to rust and degradation.
- Chemical Exposure Test: Bolt seals are exposed to a variety of chemicals that they might encounter in different transport scenarios. The seals must not show signs of weakening, deterioration, or loss of tamper-evident features.
Marking and Verification:
ISO 17712 also establishes requirements for the marking and verification of bolt seals:
- Marking Test: The markings on the bolt seal, including unique identification numbers and manufacturer information, are inspected to ensure they are legible, permanent, and meet the specified standards.
- Verification Test: The integrity of the markings is assessed through various methods, such as visual inspection, magnification, and measurements.
Conclusion:
ISO 17712 sets forth comprehensive testing procedures to ensure the quality, tamper resistance, and security of bolt seals used on freight containers. These tests encompass physical strength, durability, tamper evidence, chemical resistance, and proper marking. Compliance with these testing procedures helps maintain the integrity of cargo and contributes to the overall security of international trade and transportation.
