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MIL-STD-883 Variable Frequency Vibration

MIL-STD 883 variable frequency vibration is performed to determine the effect of vibration in specified frequency ranges on component parts. This test is performed on items that will undergo vibration at variable frequencies during a life cycle. This is a destructive test.

Keystone Compliance is a variable frequency vibration testing lab with significant MIL-883 variable frequency vibration test experience. Our vibration laboratory and test engineers understand the nuances of the vibration profiles and vibe testing.

The following information is extremely technical in nature. It was derived from test method 2007.3 vibration of version K of MIL 883 variable frequency vibration. However, it applies to previous versions of the standard. This includes MIL-STD 883G variable frequency vibration and MIL-STD 883H variable frequency vibration.

What is the Appropriate Apparatus for Variable Frequency Vibration Testing?

This military shaker testing should take place in a variable frequency laboratory. The lab must use equipment capable of providing the required variable frequency vibration for the military shaker test. This frequency needs to be at the specified levels. The variable frequency vibration lab must also have the necessary optical and electrical equipment for post-test measurements.

Keystone Compliance has been recognized as having one of the best variable frequency vibration laboratories in the country. Our experts have extensive knowledge of military standards and are able to perform a variety of vibration testing services.

What is the Appropriate Test Procedure for the Best Variable Frequency Vibration Testing?

During shaker testing the device shall be rigidly fastened on the vibration platform and the leads or cables adequately secured. The device shall be vibrated with simple harmonic motion that has a peak to peak amplitude of 0.06 inch (±10 percent). Or the harmonic motion may have a peak acceleration of the specified test condition A, B, or C.

Test conditions shall be amplitude controlled below the crossover frequency and g level controlled above. The vibration frequency shall be varied approximately logarithmically between 20 and 2,000 Hz. The entire frequency range goes from 20 to 2,000 Hz, back to 20 Hz. This entire range shall be traversed in no less than 4 minutes.

This cycle shall be performed 4 times in each of the orientations X, Y, and Z. This totals 12 times, so that the motion shall be applied for a total period of no less than 48 minutes.

Devices with an internal cavity containing elements subject to possible movement or breakage during vibration shall be further examined. They shall undergo radiographic examination in accordance and internal visual examination at 30X magnification to reveal damage or dislocation.

This test is performed as part of a group or subgroup of tests. However, the post-test measurements or inspections need not be performed specifically at the conclusion of this test. They may be performed once at the conclusion of the group or subgroup.

Test ConditionPeak Acceleration, g
A20
B50
C70

CAUTION: Sometimes this test is performed using a potting compound type test fixture. In such cases, the facility performing the test must assure the procedure/material does not mask fine/gross leakers.

How is Examination Completed?

After completion of the test, an external visual examination of the marking is performed without magnification. A viewer must not have a magnification of greater than 3X. A visual examination of the case, leads, or seals shall be performed at a magnification between 10X and 20X.

This examination and any additional specified measurements and examination are made after completion of the final cycle. Or they are made upon completion of a group, sequence, or subgroup of tests which include this test.

What is the Variable Frequency Vibration Test Standard Failure Criteria?

After subjection to the test, failure of any specified measurement or examination will not receive variable frequency vibration certification. Any evidence of defects or damage to the case, leads, or seals, or illegible markings is a failure. Damage to marking caused by fixturing or handling during tests is not cause for device rejection. Such devices can still variable frequency vibration compliance certification.

Keystone Compliance has been recognized as one of the best variable frequency vibration labs in the country. Our capabilities include testing to commercial and military vibration testing standards. With one of the best military vibration labs we use only state of the art vibration test systems. Our vibration laboratory and test engineers understand the nuances of the vibration profiles and vibe testing.

Looking to get variable frequency vibration certification for your product? Talk to our experts to develop a streamlined test plan and receive a professional and affordable quote. Work with certified vibration analysts that understand the requirements of variable frequency vibration compliance. Contact us to learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their vibration 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.