1. Shock and Vibration Testing Types

1.1. Mechanical Shock Test

• Simulates sudden acceleration forces (e.g., impact, drop, collision).

• Frequently Used Testing Parameters

20 g – 100 g Acceleration
6–20 ms Pulse Duration
Controlled Waveforms (Half-Sine, Trapezoidal, Sawtooth, Square Pulse)

Applications

• Impact Resistance of Automotive Control Units and Components

• Impact Resistance of Aerospace Systems

• Shock Resistance of Electronic Devices

Related Standards

• IEC 60068-2-27 – Mechanical Shock Test Standard

• MIL-STD-810H (Method 516.8) – Shock Test for Military Applications

• ISO 16750-3 – Shock Resistance Test for Automotive Electronic Components

1.2. Vibration Testing

• The products are subjected to long-term, continuous mechanical vibration, simulating the effects of transportation, operation, or extreme environmental conditions.

• Key Parameters

Frequency Range: 5 Hz – 2000 Hz
Acceleration: 0.5 g – 30 g
Operating Time: From 10 minutes to several hours of cycles
Vibration Modes: Sine, Random, Combined Sine-Random

Applications

• Automotive Components (Engine Parts, Electrical Connectors)

• Electronic Devices (Mobile Phones, Onboard Systems)

• Aerospace and Military Equipment

Related Standards

• IEC 60068-2-6 – Sine Vibration Test

• IEC 60068-2-64 – Random Vibration Test

• MIL-STD-810H (Method 514.8) – Military Vibration Test

• ISO 16750-3 – Vibration Resistance Test for Automotive Electronic Components

1.3. Combined Shock and Vibration Testing

• Tests that more accurately simulate real-world conditions, combining temperature fluctuations, humidity, and mechanical stress.

• Example of a Test Cycle:

-40°C ↔ +85°C temperature change
Vibration in the 10 Hz – 2000 Hz frequency range
Shock load with 40 g acceleration

Related Standards

• GMW 3172 – General Motors Combined Environmental Test

• VW 80000 – Mechanical Testing of Volkswagen Components

• RTCA DO-160 – Vibration Resistance Standard for Aerospace Equipment

2. Why Are These Tests Important?

• Quality Assurance – The functionality of the products is guaranteed even in extreme environments.

• Increased Durability – Manufacturers can identify weak points during the design phase.

• Compliance with Standards – These tests are essential for meeting industry regulations.