Our multi-axis simulation table (MAST) is a six degrees of freedom vibration test facility. It's specified for payloads up to 450kg and test frequencies up to 50Hz. The table measures 1.5 x 1.7m and with the grid of threaded holes, it allows secure mounting of a variety of experiments, from earthquake simulation over assessing the quality of vibration isolation to verifying the operation of systems exposed to multi-axis vibrations.
The £500k table was supplied by Instron Structural Testing Systems (IST) in 2004, with an Instron 8800 controller.
Control and data acquisition
The table can be controlled in Cartesian co-ordinates (X, Y, Z, Roll, Pitch, Yaw), and any combination of linear or rotary motions can be commanded simultaneously. Cyclic position command signals (e.g. sine waves) or random inputs can be specified, or user-defined 'playback' signals from a demand file.
The following signals can be acquired simultaneously at 2.5kHz:
- six position signals (either actuator or Cartesian)
- six acceleration signals, accelerometers located on table or test specimen
We are also able to provide further data acquisition and real-time control upon request.
Performance specification
| Direction | Stroke (mm) | Velocity (m/s) | Acceleration (m/s2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| X (longitudinal) | ±75 | ±1.2 | ±60 |
| Y (lateral) | ±75 | ±1.7 | ±90 |
| Z (vertical) | ±75 | ±1.7 | ±200 |
The acceleration limits are for small payloads (<50kg). With the maximum payload of 450kg, the acceleration limits are approximately half. Values are approximate.
Contract hire
The guide price for the use of this facility is £2000 a day, plus PTMC staff, depending on requirements.