Force Limited Vibration Testing
National Technical Systems (NTS)
In vibration testing of high value aerospace hardware, over testing of light, high performance structures is a great concern. Discrepancies between the mechanical impedances and the force capabilities of the mounting structure and the vibration shaker can cause catastrophic structural and functional problems to test item. The effectiveness of the radar depends on it retaining its structural integrity over the entire surface of the antenna and that all its electronics are a) tested at, or near levels they will experience in its service life and b) the resonance of various parts of the radar follow those of the model. Consequently, the vibration test lab required 60 data channels to accurately verify the design of the instrument and its ability to withstand launch, cruise and deployment loads. To avoid over testing, NTS used Force Limiting Test Process using four force transducers to prevent exceeding total load of 1000 pounds.