Testing

ASD works with our clients to develop test objectives, plans, and procedures to meet the structural verification requirements. In addition, ASD provides expert test direction/guidance to the test team to ensure that all test objectives are met. ASD provides test services on the following types of tests:

• Modal Survey Testing:

  The main goal of modal survey testing is to measure structural modal parameters such as frequencies, mode-shapes, and damping ratios. The results from modal survey testing are typically utilized to correlate the structural finite element model that is utilized in analyses including the coupled loads analysis. The modal survey test may also be utilized to quantify the impact of structural nonlinearities on modal parameters.

• Qualification Testing:

  The main goal of qualification structural testing is to verify that the structural system design meets or exceeds its design requirements, i.e, can the structure withstand the qualification loads. Typical qualification tests include static, vibration, and acoustic tests.

• Acceptance Testing:

  Acceptance tests are utilized to verify workmanship and structural integrity. Typical acceptance test include static, vibration, and acoustic tests.

• Static Testing:

  The main goal of static testing is to qualify the strength of the primary structure and structural interfaces. The static test may also be utilized to verify structural math model flexibilities. On certain occasions, when the structural size and frequencies allow, the static test may be efficiently simulated via a sine-burst test.

• Sine Vibration Testing:

  The main goal of sine vibration testing is to verify that the component can withstand the low frequency qualification and acceptance loads. In addition, the sine vibration test can be utilized to measure component frequencies, damping, and mode shapes if required.

• Random Vibration Testing:

  The main goal of random vibration testing is to verify that the component can withstand the structural-borne qualification/acceptance random vibration certification requirement. Force/response limits (notching) is often utilized to prevent over-testing.

• Acoustic Testing:

  The main goal of acoustic (reverberant chamber) testing is to verify that the structural system design meets or exceeds the required qualification and acceptance sound pressure levels (SPL). Microphones and accelerometers are utilized to measure fluctuating pressure and acceleration power spectra and correlations, respectively. The sequence of testing often involves a low level calibration test followed by the qualification or acceptance test and again followed by a low level test to detect damage/failure. Test results are utilized to verify analysis predictions.

• Shock Testing:

  The main goal of shock testing is to verify that the component can withstand the required short duration, high g-level shock loads typically due to pyrotechnics.