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MIL-STD 883 Mechanical Shock Test

The MIL STD-883 test is intended to determine the suitability of the devices for use in electronic equipment which may be subjected to moderately severe shocks. These shocks may be a result of suddenly applied forces or abrupt changes in motion. They are produced by rough handling, transportation, or field operation.

Shocks of this type may disturb operating characteristics. They may also cause damage similar to that resulting from excessive vibration, particularly if the shock pulses are repetitive. This military shock test is applied to items to determine their ability to handle the wear of a life cycle.

Keystone Compliance is a shock testing lab with significant MIL-STD 883K mechanical shock and vibration testing experience. Our mechanical shock testing lab is perfect for all your mechanical shock certification needs. Our test engineers have an in-depth knowledge  of the shock testing requirements outlined in MIL-883G mechanical shock and MIL-883H mechanical shock testing.

The following information is extremely technical in nature. It provides a summary of Method 2002.5, as derived from the MIL-STD 883K mechanical shock section. Even though the language is from MIL-883K shock, it applies previous versions of the standard. This includes military standards like MIL-STD 883G mechanical Shock and MIL-STD 883H mechanical shock.

What is the Appropriate Procedure According to MIL-STD-883 Mechanical Shock?

The shock-testing apparatus should be tested in a certified shock and vibration lab. It mounted on a sturdy laboratory table or equivalent base and leveled before use. The device must be rigidly mounted or restrained by its case with suitable protection for the leads. Means may be provided to prevent the shock from being repeated due to “bounce” in the apparatus.

Unless otherwise specified, the device shall be subject to 5 shock pulses of the peak (g) level specified. Specification for the the selected test condition and for the pulse duration are made according to each of the orientations X1, X2, Y2, Y1, Z1, and Z2. For devices with internal elements mounted with the major plane perpendicular to the Y axis, the Y1 orientation is defined as that one in which the element tends to be removed from its mount. Unless otherwise specified, test condition B shall apply.

Note: The “g level (peak) limits are absolute minimums with no lower tolerances.

Test Conditiong level (peak)Duration of pulse (ms)
A5001.0
B1,5000.5
C3,0000.3
D5,0000.3
E10,0000.2
F20,0000.2
G30,0000.12

CAUTION: This test may be performed using a potting compound type test fixture (e.g., water glass/sodium silicate). In this case, the facility performing the test shall assure that this procedure/material does not mask fine/gross leakers.

What is the Failure Criteria for MIL-883 Mechanical Shock Compliance?

After subjection to testing within the military technical shock lab, failure of any specified measurements or examination are counted as failure of the test. Evidence of defects or damage to the case, leads, or seals, or illegible markings shall be considered a failure. Damage to marking caused by fixturing or handling during tests shall not be cause for device rejection of mechanical shock certification. All other noted failures are considered cause for rejection of mechanical shock certification.

What Mechanical Shock Laboratory Should You Trust for the Best Mechanical Shock Testing?

Looking for the best mechanical shock lab near you? Contact Keystone Compliance today to work with an expert who understands the requirements of military mechanical shock testing standards like MIL-STD-883. Keystone has a military shock lab, capable of aerospace mechanical shock testing. Talk to our experts to develop a streamlined test plan and receive a professional and affordable quote.

As an expert in shock certification, Keystone Compliance has been recognized as one of the best aerospace shock labs in the country. Our capabilities include testing to commercial and military shock testing standards. Contact us to learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their mechanical and aerospace shock testing needs.

MIL-STD-883 testing contains several test methods. For more information about these test methods, please click on one of the links below.