Vibrationstests

Vibrationstests, or vibration tests, are controlled laboratory procedures that expose products or components to mechanical vibrations to evaluate robustness, performance, and reliability under vibrational environments. They are used across industries such as electronics, automotive, aerospace and defense, and consumer devices, to identify potential failure modes and to support certification and qualification processes.

Tests are conducted on electrodynamic shakers or servo-hydraulic vibration systems mounted on vibration tables. Excitations include sinusoidal sweeps, random vibration, sine-on-random, and shock. Test setup defines amplitude or acceleration spectral density, frequency range, duration, and environmental conditions. Measurements use accelerometers, force sensors, and strain gauges, with data recorded for analysis of responses such as natural frequencies, resonances, and fatigue life. Tests can be development, qualification, or acceptance tests; qualification tests verify design against a standard; acceptance tests verify a particular lot meets requirements.

Standards guiding vibration testing include IEC 60068-2 (vibration and shock tests) and MIL-STD-810 for military equipment, as well as ISO 16750 for road vehicles. Results are evaluated against predefined criteria, with failures documented and used to improve design or manufacturing processes. Proper planning, fixture design, and safety considerations are essential to ensure valid results and protect personnel and equipment.