In the realm of product development and quality control, ensuring
the reliability of products under various environmental conditions
is of utmost importance. Among these conditions, vibration is a
common stress factor that products encounter during transportation,
storage, and operation. The IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 standard, which
focuses on sine sweep vibration testing, provides a comprehensive
framework for evaluating the ability of products to withstand such
vibrations. A vibration shaker machine designed to meet this
standard has become an essential tool for manufacturers across
multiple industries.
1. The Significance of IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 Sine Sweep Vibration
Testing
Simulating Real - World Vibration Scenarios
Products in real - world scenarios are often exposed to vibrations
that change in frequency over time. For example, in an aircraft,
components experience vibrations that vary with the engine's RPM
(revolutions per minute) during takeoff, cruise, and landing. In
automotive applications, parts are subjected to vibrations that
change as the vehicle's speed and road conditions vary. Sine sweep
vibration testing, as defined by IEC 60068 - 2 - 6, aims to
replicate these dynamic vibration conditions in a controlled
laboratory environment. By gradually changing the frequency of the
vibration from a low value to a high value and back (or vice
versa), this testing method can identify the resonant frequencies
of a product. Resonant frequencies are those at which a product
vibrates with maximum amplitude, and if a product is exposed to
vibrations at its resonant frequencies for an extended period, it
can lead to structural damage, component failures, or reduced
performance.
Evaluating Product Durability and Reliability
The IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 sine sweep vibration testing helps
manufacturers assess the durability and reliability of their
products. By subjecting products to a wide range of frequencies,
manufacturers can detect potential design flaws, such as weak
connections, insufficient structural integrity, or improper
material selection. For instance, a poorly designed electronic
device may experience component dislodgment or circuit board cracks
when exposed to specific frequencies during the sine sweep test.
Identifying these issues during the testing phase allows
manufacturers to make necessary design improvements, which in turn
reduces the risk of product failures in the field. This not only
saves costs associated with product recalls and repairs but also
enhances the reputation of the manufacturer by delivering high -
quality, reliable products.
2. Understanding the IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 Standard
Key Requirements of the Standard
The IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 standard outlines specific requirements for
sine sweep vibration testing. It defines the frequency range that
the test should cover, which typically spans from a few hertz to
several hundred hertz, depending on the nature of the product being
tested. The sweep rate, which is the speed at which the frequency
changes during the test, is also clearly specified. A slow sweep
rate may be used to accurately identify the resonant frequencies,
while a faster sweep rate can be employed for a more general
screening test. The amplitude of the vibration, measured in terms
of acceleration (g), is another crucial parameter defined by the
standard. Different products may require different amplitude levels
based on their intended use and the expected vibration environment.
Additionally, the standard provides guidelines on the number of
sweeps, the direction of the vibration (e.g., single - axis, multi
- axis), and the test duration.
Standardization for the Industry
This standard plays a vital role in standardizing the sine sweep
vibration testing process across industries. It provides a common
language and set of procedures for manufacturers, test
laboratories, and regulatory bodies. By adhering to the IEC 60068 -
2 - 6 standard, manufacturers can ensure that their products are
tested in a consistent and comparable manner. This enables fair
competition in the market, as all products are evaluated against
the same benchmark. Moreover, it simplifies the process of
certifying products for compliance, which is essential for products
to enter certain markets or meet regulatory requirements.
3. How the Vibration Shaker Machine Works
Working Principle of the Vibration Shaker Machine
A vibration shaker machine for IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 sine sweep
vibration testing typically operates on an electrodynamic or
hydraulic principle. In an electrodynamic shaker, an electrical
current is applied to a moving coil suspended in a magnetic field.
According to Fleming's left - hand rule, this creates a force that
causes the coil to move. The movement of the coil is transferred to
the shaker table, which then vibrates the product placed on it. To
generate a sine sweep vibration, the electrical current supplied to
the coil is adjusted in such a way that the frequency of the
resulting vibration changes gradually over time. In a hydraulic
shaker, hydraulic fluid is used to generate the force that causes
the shaker table to vibrate. The flow and pressure of the hydraulic
fluid are precisely controlled to produce the desired sine sweep
vibration profile.
Components of the Vibration Shaker Machine
The vibration shaker machine consists of several key components.
The vibration generator, whether it's an electrodynamic or
hydraulic unit, is responsible for producing the vibrations. The
power amplifier, in the case of an electrodynamic shaker, boosts
the electrical signal to the required power level to drive the
shaker. The controller is the heart of the system. It allows
operators to input the desired vibration parameters, such as the
start and end frequencies of the sweep, the sweep rate, and the
amplitude. The controller then generates the appropriate control
signals to the vibration generator and power amplifier. Sensors,
such as accelerometers, are placed on the shaker table and the
product being tested. These sensors measure the actual vibration
levels and provide feedback to the controller. The controller uses
this feedback to make real - time adjustments to the vibration
parameters, ensuring that the vibration profile adheres to the
requirements of the IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 standard.
Rated Sine/ Random/ Shock Force | 3,000 kgf/3,000kgf/6,000 kgf | Armature Mass | 30 kg |
Frequency Range | 5-3,000 Hz | Inserts Size (Standard) | M10 |
Max./ Continuous Displacement p-p | 51 mm/51 mm | Load Attachment Points (Standard) | 17 |
Max.Velocity | 2.0 m/s | Natural Frequency-Thrust Axis | <3Hz |
Max.Sine/ Random Acceleration | 100/60g | Max. Vertical Load Support | 500 kg |
Armature Diameter | 440 mm | Stray field @152 mm above table | ≤1mT (10 gauss) |
Fundamental Resonance Frequency | 2t500Hz(nom.)±5% | Dimension LxWxH | 1,270 mmx980mmx1,135mm |
Allowable Armature Overturning Moment | 500 Nm | Weight (Uncrated) | 2,500 kg |
4. Performance Features of the IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 Compliant
Vibration Shaker Machine
High - Precision Frequency Control
To meet the IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 standard, the vibration shaker
machine must offer high - precision frequency control. The
frequency accuracy is typically within ±0.1% of the set value. This
level of precision is crucial for accurately identifying the
resonant frequencies of the product. For example, when testing a
high - performance audio speaker, the vibration shaker machine
needs to precisely sweep through the frequency range relevant to
audio frequencies to determine if the speaker components resonate
at any frequencies that could cause distortion. The ability to
control the frequency with such accuracy ensures that the test
results are reliable and repeatable.
Precise Amplitude Control
The amplitude of the vibration is another critical aspect. The
vibration shaker machine can precisely control the amplitude, with
an accuracy of around ±1% of the set acceleration value. This is
important because different products may have specific amplitude
requirements based on their design and intended use. For instance,
a medical device may require a very low - amplitude vibration test
to ensure that its sensitive components are not damaged, while a
heavy - duty industrial product may be tested with higher amplitude
vibrations to simulate more severe operating conditions. The
precise amplitude control allows manufacturers to test their
products under the exact vibration levels specified by the IEC
60068 - 2 - 6 standard.
Robust and Reliable Construction
Given the repetitive and demanding nature of sine sweep vibration
testing, the vibration shaker machine is built with robust and
reliable construction. The shaker table and other mechanical
components are made of high - strength materials such as aluminum
or steel to withstand the high forces generated during vibration
testing. The electrical and hydraulic components, including the
power amplifier, controller, and pumps, are designed to operate
continuously under high - stress conditions without degradation.
The machine is also equipped with safety features, such as overload
protection and emergency stop buttons, to protect the test specimen
and the operators. This robust construction ensures that the
vibration shaker machine can perform thousands of tests over its
lifespan without significant maintenance, reducing downtime and
increasing the efficiency of the testing process.
5. Applications of the Vibration Shaker Machine in Different
Industries
Electronics Industry
In the electronics industry, the vibration shaker machine is widely
used to test a variety of products, from smartphones and tablets to
high - end servers. For example, when developing a new laptop, the
vibration shaker machine can be used to test the hard drive's
ability to withstand vibrations. By subjecting the laptop to sine
sweep vibrations, manufacturers can determine if the hard drive's
read - write heads are at risk of crashing into the disk surface at
certain frequencies. This helps in improving the durability of the
laptop and reducing the risk of data loss due to vibration -
induced hard drive failures.
Automotive Industry
The automotive industry relies on vibration shaker machines for
testing various components. Engine components, such as pistons,
connecting rods, and crankshafts, are tested to ensure their
reliability under the vibrations generated during engine operation.
The vibration shaker machine can simulate the complex vibration
patterns that these components experience as the engine's RPM
changes. Additionally, automotive interior components, such as
dashboards and seats, are tested to ensure that they do not produce
annoying rattles or vibrations during normal driving. By
identifying and addressing these issues early in the design
process, automotive manufacturers can improve the overall quality
and customer satisfaction of their vehicles.
Aerospace Industry
In the aerospace industry, where product reliability is critical,
the vibration shaker machine is used to test a wide range of
components, including aircraft engines, avionics systems, and
structural elements. For example, an aircraft's wing structure is
tested to ensure that it can withstand the vibrations from the
engines and air turbulence during flight. The vibration shaker
machine can simulate the sine sweep vibrations that the wing may
experience at different flight conditions, allowing engineers to
detect any potential fatigue or structural weaknesses. This helps
in ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft, which is of
utmost importance in the aerospace industry.
6. Conclusion
The IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 compliant vibration shaker machine is an
essential tool for product development and quality control across
multiple industries. By accurately simulating real - world sine
sweep vibration scenarios, it enables manufacturers to evaluate the
durability and reliability of their products. With its high -
precision frequency and amplitude control, and robust construction,
this machine plays a crucial role in ensuring that products meet
the high - quality standards required in today's competitive
market. If your industry requires reliable sine sweep vibration
testing to meet the IEC 60068 - 2 - 6 standard, investing in a high
- quality vibration shaker machine can significantly enhance the
performance and reliability of your products. Consider reaching out
to our team of experts to explore how our vibration shaker machines
can be tailored to your specific testing needs.