MIL-STD-810H Drop Test: What It Means for Your Gear

**What is MIL-STD-810H?** MIL-STD-810H is the US Department of Defense standard for Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests. It is used worldwide for military, defense, aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment testing. The standard covers 28 test methods, including: - 500-series: Mission profiles (drop, shock, vibration) - 600-series: Climatic (temperature, humidity, rain, sand, salt fog) - 700-series: Explosive atmospheres **Method 516.8: Drop Test** This is the most common method for protective cases. The case is dropped from a specified height onto a hard surface, in specific orientations. **Kexin's drop test protocol** For every production batch, Kexin cases undergo the following drop test per MIL-STD-810H Method 516.8: - Drop height: 1.2 m (4 feet) - Surface: 50 mm thick concrete - Number of drops: 26 (6 faces + 8 corners + 12 edges) - Each face, corner, and edge is tested After 26 drops, the case must: - Remain sealed (no water or dust ingress) - Function normally (latches, hinges, handles) - Show no cracks or deformation **Why 1.2 m?** 1.2 m (4 feet) approximates the height of a person carrying a case who trips or drops it. It is also the standard height for airline baggage handling and rough military use. **Beyond drop: other MIL-STD methods** Kexin also tests for: - 514.8 Vibration (random and sinusoidal) - 501.7 High temperature (+70 °C) - 502.7 Low temperature (-40 °C) - 507.6 Humidity (95 % RH at 30-60 °C) - 509.7 Salt fog (for marine) **When is MIL-STD required?** - Military and defense contracts - Aerospace and aviation - Police, fire, emergency services - Industrial MRO in harsh environments For consumer or office use, MIL-STD is not required but is a strong signal of quality. **Get MIL-STD tested cases from Kexin** Kexin provides per-lot MIL-STD-810H Method 516.8 drop test reports. For other methods, ask our engineering team. Contact: [email protected] / +86 135 9055 5309.