Monday  |  Trinity A  |  04:10 PM–04:30 PM

#15062–Finite Element Simulation of Electromagnetic Shaker for Environmental Test

The Environmental Test group at KCNSC performs various mechanical tests to evaluate the production lifetime of weapons system parts. The majority of these tests are performed on an electromagnetic shaker. An electromagnetic shaker is a device that converts electrical energy to mechanical vibrations using the principles of electromagnetism. This vibration testing is highly useful for field testing components that are routinely subjected to repetitive vibrations and shocks.

In order to facilitate a reduction in unnecessary testing time, simulation of the shaker using finite element modeling (FEM) is an invaluable tool to predict real world outcomes. Full dynamic characterization of the shaker as well as its interaction with adapters and test fixtures is difficult to capture, but is nonetheless fundamental to understanding the response of a unit undergoing test. Inputs to achieve reliable predictive simulation results require accurate design, coupling behavior, and test article definition.

At KCNSC we are performing modal and dynamic analyses of test components using our FEM model of an electromagnetic shaker. This abstract intends to examine some of the design challenges our team has overcome such as model creation, boundary condition definition, and response matching to test specifications. We will also examine future challenges we are working to implement, such as force reconstruction techniques, which could allow for better prediction of input parameters prior to simulation.

“Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, LLC operates the Kansas City National Security Campus for the United States Department of Energy / National Nuclear Security Administration under Contract Number DE-NA0002839”
“NSC-614-4687 dated 07/22
Unclassified Unlimited Release”

Adam Bruetsch   Kansas City National Security Campus
Washington DeLima   Kansas City National Security Campus