The DOT and DoD use the single package test, the stack test, and the external fire test to determine the hazards of a packaged finished article. These tests focus on the hazards of particular shipping and storage configurations. In order to assess unfinished articles in a processing operation or finished articles, which are not in their final shipping configuration yet, modified versions of these tests in addition to others should be conducted. The tests listed in this test series are required by the DOT and DoD to determine whether a packaged article is too sensitive for transport. For in-process classification, these tests are performed on the unpackaged, unfinished article

Thermal Stability Test

This test is used to determine the reaction of articles when subjected to a mildly elevated temperature (75°C) for a specific period (48 hours). At the completion of the test, the article is examined for evidence of reaction. Any evidence of explosion, fire, damaged outer casing, dangerous exudation of explosive visible outside the casing, or a temperature rise greater than 3°C above the oven temperature is criteria for a positive result (i.e. fails the test).

Drop Test

This test is used to determine if a finished or unfinished article can withstand a free-fall impact without producing any significant fire or explosion hazards. The test is not intended to evaluate whether the unit can withstand the actual impact. The article is dropped at an orientation in which it is most likely to function on impact. Three drops are made on identical units unless a decisive event (e.g. fire or explosion) occurs earlier. A test result is considered positive if evidence of initiation is identified. A rupture of the casing alone is not considered a positive result.