This standard outlines the procedures for evaluating the stability of tables and trolleys made from any material by replicating overturning forces encountered during typical use. It provides manufacturers and engineers with guidelines to verify that furniture resists tipping, ensuring safety and functional integrity.
Overview
This standard outlines the procedures for evaluating the stability of tables and trolleys made from any material by replicating overturning forces encountered during typical use. It provides manufacturers and engineers with guidelines to verify that furniture resists tipping, ensuring safety and functional integrity.
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Contents
Structure
This section defines the scope of testing methods for assessing the stability of tables and trolleys constructed from any material. It focuses exclusively on stability evaluation, referencing British Standard BS 4875 Part 6:1985 for test procedures. Test results are to be rounded following IS 2:1960 guidelines, matching the significant figures of the specified values. Stability tests involve applying horizontal or eccentric loads to simulate real-world tipping forces.
Clarifies relevant terms used in strength and stability testing of tables and trolleys. Specifies the methodology for applying test loads and outlines the necessary details to be included in test reports, such as furniture description and overturning occurrence. Describes the vertical stability test setup involving a vertical force applied in Newtons at a specified point.
Explains that stability is the capacity to withstand overturning forces. The test replicates these forces by applying vertical loads up to 300 N at designated points, particularly the least stable edge determined by inspection or trial. The procedure involves tightening all fixings, applying the force gradually, and observing for overturning to validate safety.
Outlines essential principles such as simulating overturning forces to assess stability and acceptance criteria requiring no overturn during testing. Test reports must document the tested article and overturning behavior. The section includes a conceptual formula comparing resisting and overturning moments to determine stability.
Describes devices used for vertical force application, which must not restrict furniture movement and may consist of masses or steel plates positioned with center of gravity 50 mm from the edge. Details the horizontal impact device comprising an inflated basketball attached by elastic cords to a timber ring and a 50 kg mass assembly designed to swing horizontally onto the furniture. Equipment specifications including dimensions and pressures are provided.
Details the step-by-step approach for vertical stability testing, including placing the furniture on a level floor and applying up to 300 N vertical force at the center along one long edge, 50 mm from the outer edge. For extension leaves or irregular tops, testing occurs at the least stable position. Reports must document furniture details and overturning status.
Provides guidance on evaluating vertical and horizontal impact tests. Vertical tests apply a 300 N force at a specified point and observe overturning. Horizontal impact testing involves striking at 40 mm height with a maximum impact height of 1.6 m. Test reports must include furniture details and whether overturning occurred.
Specifies the information to be recorded in stability test reports, including furniture type, dimensions, material, configuration, and overturning behavior. Emphasizes adherence to measurement units and rounding rules. The section summarizes the vertical stability test parameters and outcome documentation.
Frequently Asked
IS 5967 Part 2 (1988) applies to all tables and trolleys regardless of the materials used, such as wood, metal, or plastic. It specifically addresses methods for assessing their stability to ensure they resist tipping during normal use. This standard focuses solely on stability testing, whereas strength testing is covered in Part 1. It also draws on British Standard BS 4875 Part 6 (1985) for its testing methodologies.
The vertical force is applied by placing the furniture on a flat surface and positioning the force application device at the center of the top along one of the longer edges. The device’s center of gravity should be located 50 mm from the outer edge. The force is then gradually increased up to 300 Newtons while observing if the furniture overturns. For tables with extension leaves or irregular shapes, the force is applied at the least stable edge, determined through trial and error. The device must allow free movement of the furniture during testing.
The horizontal impact test employs a specially designed apparatus consisting of a basketball inflated to 73.5 ± 5 kPa attached with elastic cords to a timber ring seating. The ring has an outside diameter of 150 mm and an inside diameter of 90 mm. This assembly is connected to a 50 kg main body supported by 85 mm long flexible cords or wires, ensuring it remains horizontal when displaced. The device simulates a horizontal impact by swinging the weighted ball assembly against the furniture edge at a height of 40 mm, with a maximum impact height of 1.6 meters.
The least stable position is identified by inspecting and testing various edges to find where the furniture is most likely to overturn. For tables with extension leaves, this usually corresponds to the center of the extension leaf’s edge. If multiple arrangements exist, the one with the least stability is selected. For non-rectangular tops or pedestal supports, all edges are examined to find the weakest point. The vertical force is then applied 50 mm from the outer edge at this identified position to simulate potential overturning.
A table or trolley passes the stability test if it does not tip over when subjected to a vertical force of up to 300 Newtons applied 50 mm from the outer edge at the center of its top along a long side. For furniture with extension leaves or irregular shapes, testing is conducted at the least stable edge identified by trial. The absence of overturning under these conditions indicates the furniture meets the stability requirement. This simulates real-world forces to ensure safe, functional use.
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