While its tools and technologies have progressed over the years, the basic premise and applications of modal testing have remained largely constant for more than 50 years. And today the methodology remains a staple throughout mechanical engineering, testing, and analysis.
While vibration is present in all systems, subsystems, and structures, excessive levels can have a direct and detrimental impact on durability and noise levels. Modal testing is a method to measure vibration levels, determine the severity, and help to pinpoint the cause and effects.
Data collected during a modal test is applied to a representative model of the product, subsystem, or structure. Data may be collected in the field or in a laboratory setting. The complete process is often referred to as a Modal Analysis or Experimental Modal Analysis. Simulating the effects of vibration (in an exaggerated animation) allows engineers to clearly understand the nature of vibration and measure the impact of damping, design changes, and other steps taken to lessen its severity.
In future blog posts we will take a deeper dive into modal testing and explore its tools, methods, applications, and role in validating simulations.
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