What factors should be considered when choosing a vibration test system?

Selecting a vibration test system in 2025 requires balancing technical performance limits with long-term operational needs. Key considerations include: 

1. Core Performance Specifications 
Force Rating: The fundamental limit of the system, calculated as (Force=Masstimes Acceleration) ((F=ma)). You must include the total moving mass, which is the weight of the test specimen (DUT) plus all fixtures, fasteners, and the shaker's own armature.

Frequency Range: Systems must cover the specific frequencies required by industry standards. For example:
Automotive: Typically 5 Hz to 2,000 Hz.
Aerospace: Often extends to 3,000 Hz.
Electronics: Focuses on high precision between 20 Hz and 2,500 Hz.

Performance Envelope: Ensure the system can simultaneously meet the required Peak Acceleration (g), Peak Velocity, and Maximum Displacement (stroke). Low-frequency tests often reach displacement limits before force limits. 

2. Payload and Fixturing 
Maximum Static Payload: The shaker must support the DUT's weight without compromising its internal suspension.
Fixture Design: Poorly designed fixtures can introduce unwanted resonances that skew results. Use lightweight, stiff materials like aluminum or magnesium to maintain high-frequency accuracy. 

3. System Configuration & Technology 
Shaker Type:
Electrodynamic: Best for high-frequency, high-precision sine and random tests.
Hydraulic: Preferred for heavy payloads (up to 3000 kg) and low-frequency/long-stroke needs.
Cooling Method: Air-cooled systems are simpler to maintain, while water-cooled systems are essential for continuous, high-force, or high-duty-cycle applications.
Testing Axes: Consider if you need a Slip Table for horizontal testing or if you will manually reorient the specimen for 3-axis (X, Y, Z) qualification. 

4. Controller Capabilities 
Dynamic Range: Modern systems should offer a verifiable >110 dB true dynamic range to capture low-level signals alongside high-G events.
Safety Features: Look for real-time monitoring of displacement and temperature, intelligent "abort logic" to protect expensive specimens, and hardware watchdogs.
Test Modes: Ensure support for required profiles like Sine, Random, Classical Shock, or Mixed-Mode (e.g., Sine-on-Random). 

5. Facility & Long-Term Costs 
Infrastructure: Verify the availability of high-voltage power (typically 208V–480V 3-phase) and clean, dry compressed air for air-bearing tables.
Seismic Foundation: Large shakers require a dedicated seismic mass (concrete pad) 10–20x the system weight to prevent vibrations from damaging the building.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Beyond initial purchase, budget for annual sensor calibration, electrical power consumption, and vendor support.