Particle size and Security level

History has shown that for the correct disposal of digital data carriers, various issues need to be considered. The most important issue is the required security level. Is the data to be destroyed classified or not?

If the data is classified, wiping or degaussing would certainly not be the preferred methods. Physical destruction is the best method, provided that the destruction method chosen guarantees the particle size related to the security level of the data. Security standards such as EADMS and DIN 66399 provide guidance with respect to the recommend particle size in relationship to the security level.

The MAXXeGUARD shredder was audited by European Association of Data Media Security (EADMS). Based on their classification system MAXXeGUARD was rated “C”or “D”, depending on the cut settings. The smallest average particle size (when performing a cross cut) obtained was 12.05 mm²!

EADMS level “C” certification tests involved processing magnetic 3,5″ Hard drives on the MAXXeGUARD Shredder. The particle size was determined by weighing only the individual platter particles and expressing their weight in mm2 a percentage of the known weight and the surface area  of a uncut platter.  Even though the weight methode is the more accurate one to determine particle size, some small deviations may still occur.

When cutting at 1 mm cut length, the following results were obtained: 68 % <= 100 mm², 18% between 100 – 200 mm², 12 % between 20 – 240 mm².