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MIL-STD-883 Vibration Fatigue Testing

The purpose of this military vibration test standard is to determine the effect vibration on a device. This vibration should be within the specified frequency range for testing. Performed in a vibration fatigue laboratory this test examines the sustainability of an item during a life cycle.

Keystone Compliance has been recognized as having some of the best vibration fatigue testing experts in the country. Our vibration fatigue testing lab is equipped with state of the art machinery for all your vibration fatigue certification needs. Our test engineers understand the nuances of vibration profiles and vibe testing.

The following information is extremely technical in nature. It was derived from version K of MIL-STD 883 vibration fatigue section. It is a summary of methods 2005.2 vibration fatigue. Even though the language is from MIL-883K, it also applies previous versions of the standard. This includes MIL-STD 883G vibration fatigue and MIL-STD 883H vibration fatigue.

What is the Best Vibration Fatigue Laboratory Apparatus?

This shaker testing should take place in a vibration fatigue 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 one of the best military vibration labs in the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Our experts have extensive knowledge of military standards and are able to perform a variety of vibration testing services.

What is the Proper Procedure for 883 Vibration Fatigue Testing?

The test item must be rigidly fastened on the shaker table and the leads or cables adequately secured. The device shall be vibrated with a constant amplitude simple harmonic motion. This simple harmonic motion must have a peak acceleration corresponding to the specified test condition.

Test condition A, may have a constant harmonic motion with a range of 60 ±20 Hz. This harmonic motion will have an amplitude of 0.06 inch double amplitude. This harmonic motion is an acceptable alternative to the specified peak acceleration.

The vibration should be applied for 32 ±8 hours minimum, in each of the orientations X, Y, and Z. This is a total of 96 hours, minimum.

Test Condition	Peak Acceleration, g
A	20
B	50
C	70

Some devices have an internal cavity containing parts or elements subject to possible movement or breakage during vibration. When specified, these devices must be further examined by radiographic examination or by deluding or opening. And they must undergo an 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.

How do you Examine for Vibration Fatigue Compliance?

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 Failure Criteria for MIL-883 Vibration Fatigue?

After subjection to the test, failure of any specified measurement or examination will not receive vibration fatigue 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 receive vibration frequency compliance certification.

What is the Appropriate Test Frequency and Amplitude for the Best Vibration Fatigue Testing?

For test condition A, B, or C, the double amplitude and frequency used results in the application of the peak accelerations. These peak accelerations are 20, 50, or 70 g’s. Peak acceleration may be computed using the following equation:

g=A(f)2/(2)(386)

A = double amplitude in inches.

F = frequency in radians/second.

Keystone Compliance has been recognized as one of the best vibration fatigue labs in the country. Our capabilities include testing to commercial and military vibration testing standards. We use only state of the art equipment for all test procedures.

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

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