The Synergy of Combined Vibration and Environmental Testing
14-12-2023
In the domain of vibration testing, where we typically delve deeply into product performance evaluation, it becomes apparent that a singular perspective is sometimes insufficient. Vibration testing has long been a crucial tool for assessing a product's resilience to mechanical stresses. However, to comprehensively evaluate the challenges that products encounter in their operational environments, it is crucial to broaden the perspective. The integration of environmental testing alongside vibration testing becomes a necessity to achieve a holistic evaluation of product reliability.
Real-World Challenges
Environmental testing, covering variables like temperature, humidity, and altitude, replicates real-world conditions that products must endure. However, the environment is dynamic, where these factors interact with mechanical vibrations, creating a compounded set of challenges.
Consider a scenario where a product is subject to both vibration and temperature fluctuations. These fluctuations introduce thermal expansion and contraction, potentially causing cyclic stresses on materials. This interplay of mechanical vibration and temperature change can accelerate wear and tear, leading to fatigue, cracking, or even component failure.
Similarly, when humidity comes into the equation, it introduces the risk of moisture ingress. The combination of vibrations and humidity can accelerate the penetration of moisture into the product, causing corrosion, damage to sensitive electronics, and material degradation. This moisture-induced damage, coupled with mechanical vibration, further complicates the reliability assessment.
Moreover, altitude changes amplify the stresses. Reduced air pressure at higher altitudes can impact pressure-sensitive components, which are vulnerable to deformation or leakage. When these components are subjected to mechanical vibrations under low-pressure conditions, the potential for stress-induced damage escalates.
Collaborative Solutions
For CentraTEQ, as a supplier of vibration testing equipment, understanding the intrinsic link between mechanical vibration and environmental factors is fundamental. We have formed strategic alliances with top environmental test chamber suppliers to offer a unified approach combining vibration and environmental testing. This allows our customers to ensure that their products are engineered to withstand the dynamic and demanding world of real-world use, assuring superior performance, resilience, and reliability. We possess a wealth of knowledge and experience integrating climatic chambers from various manufacturers with vibration test systems from ETS Solutions. There are many pitfalls when trying to do this independently. Speak to us directly, and we will work with you throughout the project, from conception to commissioning.
Ready to elevate your product reliability? Contact us today, and let's discuss how our holistic testing approach can ensure your products are engineered to thrive in the real world.