The automotive, aerospace, machinery, electrical, medical and power industries all use vibration testing equipment. Shock test equipment is used to ascertain product fragility and packaging, such as CDs and their packaging. In-house testing and on-site vibration test systems are used by manufacturers of large machinery including automobiles. Vibration monitors for rent and vibration table rentals are available from many suppliers. Research what you need testing and find a supplier who has that experience. Some suppliers offer training in support of the software they sell.

Shock and vibration testing equipment can be rented. Automotive vibration testing equipment is used by automotive manufacturers to test gears and gear boxes after assembly. Loud noises are indicative of manufacturing errors. Vibration equipment shaker systems are available in long stroke or electrodynamics versions.

1. Realize that each industry has different vibration testing equipment. Small electronics testing can be done using software.

2. Use software to download some shock and vibration testing systems to your computer or rent or lease equipment to use on-site.

3. Keep abreast of the improvements being made to shock and vibration testing systems.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use your industry resources to find the vibration testing equipment you need

Test and measurement labs are a big industry of their own. They supply manufacturers of all kinds including medical, automotive, aerospace and utility companies. The kind of testing you need will identify your supplier. Shock and vibration testing can be specialized to one industry.

I recommend: AM Test works in high-end industries that make sensors and other products that need to be finely calibrated. Vibration Test Systems Inc. serves medical equipment, computer and small electronics. Some of its products include downloadable testing software and offers training to support its software.

Lease or rent vibration test equipment

Leasing or renting vibration analysis testing equipment might be something you need for large products under construction such as a utility plant. Engineers are in charge of test vibration equipment and should choose the suppliers.

I recommend: Electro Rent Corporation is a large-scale supplier of used and rented equipment. Advanced Test Equipment covers a broad range of industry needs.

Integrate your shock and vibration testing needs

A large project like a power plant also needs vibration testing for small components in the electronic parts of the building. Companies that supply an integrated program of testing for all aspects of a project are helpful. It is easier to deduce the kind of company you need and assess its services if you are abreast of the vibration testing field.

I recommend: LDS can integrate all the testing systems you need for a large project. It also does work on individual elements. Dynamic Systems posts newsletters on the newest additions to the field of vibration testing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The best approach to finding a good supplier for vibration testing equipment is through an engineer or specialist who understands your project's needs.