Evaluation of Air Transport Association (ATA-300) Container.

The purpose of this study was to conduct a further evaluation of an Air Transport Association Container type ATA-300 for possible use by Oklahoma City ALCDSP to package and ship highly sensitive, high cost items. A previous study by this agency on this container is reported in DSPT Report No. 75-75. During free fall drop tests, the container performed satisfactorily with regard to shock protection. However, during corner and edge drops, the container fasteners became unlatched. Also, leakage occurred during pneumatic test of the container. To resolve these problems, the container was returned to the manufacturer for modification. Although the modified container did not meet Method II requirements of MIL-P-116, the improvements were so significant that it is believed that with the use of a better quality gasket material and more stringent quality control procedures, the leakage problem can be resolved. It was determined that the problem with fasteners unlatching could be corrected by increasing the width of the striker plate. With the adoption of the above changes, it is believed this container can meet Method II requirements. Author