RTCA DO 160 Section 8 Vibration NVH Screening Test
The RTCA/DO-160 series of standards is widely recognized as the industry’s best practice for avionics and electronic equipment subjected to a wide range of operating conditions. The document provides guidelines on environmental testing, including vibration testing per RTCA DO-160 Section 8, which focuses specifically on Vibration Noise, Vibration Harshness (NVH) screening tests.
This service is designed to ensure that electronic components and assemblies meet the stringent vibration requirements defined in RTCA/DO-160. The test evaluates the structural integrity of the component under simulated flight conditions, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of in-flight environments without failure or degradation of performance. This is critical for aerospace systems where reliability is paramount.
The testing process involves subjecting the specimen to a series of vibration levels and frequencies that mimic the expected operating environment. The test setup typically includes an environmental chamber, shakers, accelerometers, data acquisition systems (DAQ), and other specialized equipment necessary to replicate real-world flight conditions accurately.
During the test, vibrations are applied in three axes: pitch, roll, and yaw. These vibrations are often represented by a vibration spectrum that shows the intensity of the vibrations at various frequencies. The test aims to determine if the device or assembly can function correctly under these conditions without sustaining damage. Compliance with this standard is crucial for aerospace companies seeking certification from regulatory bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The acceptance criteria for passing a DO-160 Section 8 Vibration NVH Screening Test are defined in accordance with RTCA/DO-160, ensuring that all components and assemblies pass without any detectable changes in performance or physical damage. The test results are meticulously recorded using the DAQ system to provide detailed insights into how each specimen responded to the applied vibrations.
Given its critical importance for aerospace applications, this testing service is highly valued by quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement specialists who need assurance that their equipment meets the highest standards of reliability and performance. By adhering strictly to RTCA/DO-160 guidelines, companies can demonstrate their commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
Benefits
- Enhanced Reliability: Ensures that electronic components and assemblies are robust enough to withstand the harsh conditions of in-flight environments, reducing the risk of failure.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps aerospace companies meet stringent regulatory requirements set by bodies like the FAA, ensuring compliance with international standards.
- Informed Design Decisions: Provides detailed insights into how devices behave under specific vibration conditions, guiding R&D engineers in making informed design decisions.
- Cost Efficiency: By identifying potential issues early in the development process, this testing service helps companies avoid costly rework and delays.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The use of advanced data acquisition systems ensures precise measurement of vibration levels, providing accurate and reliable test results.
Compliance with international standards like RTCA/DO-160 Section 8 guarantees that the testing process adheres to best practices recognized worldwide.
Detailed reporting allows for comprehensive analysis of test outcomes, enabling continuous improvement in design and manufacturing processes.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Application | Description of Test Setup | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Avionics | Simulated flight conditions with vibration levels up to 350 Hz across all three axes. | Evaluation of equipment resilience and performance under high-stress environments. |
| Navigator Systems | Vibration testing at frequencies ranging from 10 Hz to 2 kHz to ensure robust operation in turbulent flight conditions. | Confirmation that navigation systems maintain accuracy and reliability during severe turbulence. |
| Communications Equipment | Vibration screening tests to ensure durability of communication devices under extreme environmental stress. | Evidence of equipment integrity, ensuring uninterrupted communication in challenging environments. |
| Mission Critical Electronics | High-intensity vibration testing up to 10 g peak to simulate worst-case scenarios for mission-critical electronics. | Demonstration that critical systems can operate without degradation under extreme conditions. |
