Publications

An algorithm known as SMAC (Synthesize Modes And Correlate), based on principles of modal filtering, has been in development for a few years. The new capabilities of the automated version are demonstrated on test data from a complex shell/payload system. Examples of extractions from impact and shaker data are shown. The automated algorithm extracts 30 to 50 modes in the bandwidth from each column of the frequency response function matrix. Examples of the synthesized Mode Indicator Functions (MIFs) compared with the actual MIFs show the accuracy of the technique. A data set for one input and 170 accelerometer outputs can typically be reduced in an hour. Application to a test with some complex modes is also demonstrated.

The rotorcraft industry is constantly evaluating new types of lightweight composite materials that not only enhance the safety and reliability of rotor components, but also improve performance and extend operating life as well. The tests required for these evaluations are typically quite complex requiring massive test fixtures, in many cases, along with multiple actuators for loading test articles at various points simultaneously. This paper discusses the background for development of the facility, as well as hardware and overall system design and implementation. Additional topics that are covered include data acquisition, implementation of nondestructive inspection techniques during the test process, and some results from the initial test series performed in the facility.

Sandia National Laboratories has recently completed construction of a new Explosive Components Facility (ECF) that will be used for the research and development of advanced explosives technology. The ECF includes nine indoor firing pads for detonating explosives and monitoring the detonations. Department of Energy requirements for certification of this facility include detonation of explosive levels up to 125 percent of the rated firing pad capacity with no visual structural degradation resulting from the explosion. The Explosives Projects and Diagnostics Department at Sandia decided to expand this certification process to include vibration and acoustic monitoring at various locations throughout the building during these explosive events. This information could then be used to help determine the best locations for noise and vibration sensitive equipment (e.g. scanning electron microscopes) used for analysis throughout the building. This facility has many unique isolation features built into the explosive chamber and laboratory areas of the building that allow normal operation of other building activities during explosive tests. This paper discusses the design of this facility and the various types of explosive testing performed by the Explosives Projects and Diagnostics Department at Sandia. However, the primary focus of the paper is directed at the vibration and acoustic data acquired during the certification process. This includes the vibration test setup and data acquisition parameters, as well as analysis methods used for generating peak acceleration levels and spectral information. Concerns over instrumentation issues such as the choice of transducers (appropriate ranges, resonant frequencies, etc.) and measurements with long cable lengths (500 feet) are also discussed.

The Modal Group at Sandia National Laboratories performs a variety of tests on structures ranging from weapons systems to wind turbines. The desired number of data channels for these tests has increased significantly over the past several years. Tests requiring large numbers of data channels makes roving accelerometers impractical and inefficient. The Modal Lab has implemented a method in which the test unit is fully instrumented before any data measurements are taken. This method uses a 16 channel data acquisition system and a mechanical switching setup to access each bank of accelerometers. A data base containing all transducer sensitivities, location numbers, and coordinate information is resident on the system enabling quick updates for each data set as it is patched into the system. This method has reduced test time considerably and is patched into the system. this method has reduced test time considerably and is easily customized to accommodate data acquisition systems with larger channel capabilities.