Equipment

Welcome to XVA Dynamics, your partner in precision engineering and advanced diagnostics. We offer a range of comprehensive measurement services to unlock the dynamics of your systems. From floor-vibration measurements to vibro-acoustics analysis, our skilled team utilizes cutting-edge technology and expertise. Trust XVADynamics for accurate measurements, actionable insights, and tailored solutions. Explore our services and make informed decisions to drive success in your projects.

Floor vibration measurements

When selecting measurement equipment for floor vibration measurements, there are several key characteristics to consider. Among them are a high sensitivity range, sensor accuracy, linearity at the frequency range of interest, and a high dynamic range. In demanding applications such as lithography or precision mechanics, meeting these requirements becomes increasingly challenging, resulting in highly specialized and expensive equipment.
Accelerometers

Seismic accelerometers are commonly used for floor vibration measurements due to their high sensitivity and wide frequency range. Also, they have the added value of performing an absolute measurement so they can be directly attached to the floor.

Accelerometers
Seismic accelerometers are commonly used for floor vibration measurements due to their high sensitivity and wide frequency range. Also, they have the added value of performing an absolute measurement so they can be directly attached to the floor.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for floor vibration measurements. It acts as the central hub for collecting, digitizing, and storing data from accelerometers and other sensors. The chosen data acquisition system should have a high sampling rate and sufficient channels to accommodate multiple accelerometers simultaneously. This ensures accurate and synchronized data acquisition for comprehensive analysis.
Signal Analyzer
A signal analyzer plays a crucial role in analyzing the acquired vibration data. It processes and interprets the signals captured by the sensors, providing valuable insights into the characteristics of floor vibrations. The signal analyzer should have advanced analysis capabilities, such as frequency domain analysis, time-domain analysis, and spectral analysis, allowing for in-depth investigation and identification of dynamic and acoustic patterns.
Excitation Source
To perform certain measurements, an excitation source may be required. This source can be in the form of an impact hammer, shaker, or other mechanical or electrical devices that introduce controlled vibrations into the structure. The excitation source is chosen based on the specific measurement requirements, ensuring precise and controlled excitation for accurate analysis.

Experimental Modal Analysis

Performing Experimental Modal Analysis requires careful preparation for successful execution. A suitable excitation source with sufficient energy is crucial, while a higher number of sensors speeds up the process and reduces errors. Utilizing user-friendly modal analysis software enables real-time interpretation of results. Prior numerical modal analysis is recommended to define sensor locations and expected outcomes.
Accelerometers

Seismic accelerometers are commonly used for floor vibration measurements due to their high sensitivity and wide frequency range. Also, they have the added value of performing an absolute measurement so they can be directly attached to the floor.

Excitation sources:

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Vibration sensors:

Accelerometers are the most widely used sensors in this case since they have high sensitivity, wide frequency range and perform an absolute measurement. Their main disadvantage is that they are physically attached to the measured structure adding an additional mass and handling complexity ( requiring cable routing and specific accelerometer attachment method depending on the application). Laser vibrometers are an alternative sensor that measures surface velocity. They have no mass-loading effect and are easier to install but can only measure a 1-DOF perpendicular to a surface and require certain level of reflection.

Data Acquisition System:

A reliable data acquisition system is essential for acquiring and digitizing the response signals from the sensors. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to capture and record the time-domain signals accurately. The data acquisition system also needs to synchronize the acquired data from multiple sensors and the excitation source, ensuring precise temporal alignment for modal analysis.

Modal Analysis Software:

Modal analysis software is a critical component in the Experimental Modal Analysis process. This software performs advanced signal processing and analysis techniques to extract modal parameters such as natural frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes. It enables the visualization, interpretation, and extraction of valuable insights from the collected data, facilitating accurate modal parameter identification.

Operational Deflection Shapes

Excitation sources

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Excitation sources
A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.
Vibration sensors
Accelerometers are the most widely used sensors in this case since they have high sensitivity, wide frequency range and perform an absolute measurement. Their main disadvantage is that they are physically attached to the measured structure adding an additional mass and handling complexity (requiring cable routing and specific accelerometer attachment method depending on the application). Laser vibrometers are an alternative sensor that measures surface velocity. They have no mass-loading effect and are easier to install but can only measure a 1-DOF perpendicular to a surface and require a certain level of reflection.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for acquiring and digitizing the response signals from the sensors. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to capture and record the time-domain signals accurately. The data acquisition system also needs to synchronize the acquired data from multiple sensors and the excitation source, ensuring precise temporal alignment for modal analysis.
Signal Analyzer and Visualization Tools
Utilize a signal analyzer with advanced analysis capabilities that allow for the processing, analysis, and visualization of the captured data. Look for features such as time-domain analysis, frequency-domain analysis, and modal animation tools to visualize the deflection shapes in an easily interpretable manner.

Dynamic stiffness

The selection of this typical measurement equipment for dynamic stiffness measurements is based on their ability to accurately capture the applied forces, resulting displacements, and provide precise data for stiffness calculations. The force transducer, displacement sensor, data acquisition system, and signal analyzer work together to measure and analyze the dynamic stiffness properties of the structure, allowing for a deeper understanding of its mechanical behavior and performance.
Force Transducer

A force transducer is a vital component for measuring dynamic stiffness. It accurately measures the applied forces or excitations and converts them into electrical signals. The force transducer should have high sensitivity and a wide frequency range to capture the dynamic forces accurately. It ensures precise force measurements, which are essential for calculating the dynamic stiffness of the structure.

Force Transducer
A force transducer is a vital component for measuring dynamic stiffness. It accurately measures the applied forces or excitations and converts them into electrical signals. The force transducer should have high sensitivity and a wide frequency range to capture the dynamic forces accurately. It ensures precise force measurements, which are essential for calculating the dynamic stiffness of the structure.
Displacement Sensor
A displacement sensor is used to measure the resulting displacements or deformations caused by the applied forces. It provides information about the structural response to the dynamic forces and helps in quantifying the stiffness properties. Various types of displacement sensors, such as LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) or laser displacement sensors, can be used based on the specific measurement requirements.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for capturing and digitizing the force and displacement data. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient channels to acquire data from the force transducer and displacement sensor simultaneously. The data acquisition system ensures accurate and synchronized data recording, enabling the calculation of dynamic stiffness.
Signal Analyzer
A signal analyzer is used to process and analyze the acquired force and displacement data. It performs calculations and algorithms to derive the dynamic stiffness characteristics of the structure. The signal analyzer should have advanced analysis capabilities, such as frequency response analysis or modal analysis, to extract meaningful stiffness information and provide insights into the structural behavior.

Damping measurements

The selection of this typical measurement equipment for damping measurements is based on their ability to accurately induce vibrations, capture the response, and analyze the damping characteristics of the structure. The vibration exciter, accelerometers, data acquisition system, and signal analyzer work together to measure and analyze the damping properties, providing valuable insights into the energy dissipation and structural damping behavior.
Excitation sources

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Vibration Exciter
A vibration exciter is an essential component for damping measurements. It is used to induce controlled vibrations in the structure being tested. The exciter can be in the form of an electromagnetic shaker or a hydraulic shaker, depending on the specific application. The exciter provides the required mechanical input to the structure, allowing for the measurement of its dynamic response.
Accelerometers
Accelerometers play a critical role in damping measurements as they capture the response of the structure to the induced vibrations. These sensors accurately measure the acceleration of the structure at various points of interest. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are typically used to capture the subtle vibration details necessary for damping analysis.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for capturing and digitizing the acceleration data from the accelerometers. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to accurately record the time-domain signals. The data acquisition system ensures synchronized data acquisition from multiple accelerometers and provides precise temporal information for damping analysis.
Signal Analyzer
: A signal analyzer is used to process and analyze the acquired acceleration data for damping measurements. It performs advanced analysis techniques, such as logarithmic decrement, half-power bandwidth, or logarithmic decrement fitting, to determine the damping characteristics of the structure. The signal analyzer should have the necessary tools and algorithms to extract the damping parameters accurately.

Damping measurements

The selection of this typical measurement equipment for damping measurements is based on their ability to accurately induce vibrations, capture the response, and analyze the damping characteristics of the structure. The vibration exciter, accelerometers, data acquisition system, and signal analyzer work together to measure and analyze the damping properties, providing valuable insights into the energy dissipation and structural damping behavior.
Excitation sources

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Vibration Exciter
A vibration exciter is an essential component for damping measurements. It is used to induce controlled vibrations in the structure being tested. The exciter can be in the form of an electromagnetic shaker or a hydraulic shaker, depending on the specific application. The exciter provides the required mechanical input to the structure, allowing for the measurement of its dynamic response.
Accelerometers
Accelerometers play a critical role in damping measurements as they capture the response of the structure to the induced vibrations. These sensors accurately measure the acceleration of the structure at various points of interest. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are typically used to capture the subtle vibration details necessary for damping analysis.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for capturing and digitizing the acceleration data from the accelerometers. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to accurately record the time-domain signals. The data acquisition system ensures synchronized data acquisition from multiple accelerometers and provides precise temporal information for damping analysis.
Signal Analyzer
: A signal analyzer is used to process and analyze the acquired acceleration data for damping measurements. It performs advanced analysis techniques, such as logarithmic decrement, half-power bandwidth, or logarithmic decrement fitting, to determine the damping characteristics of the structure. The signal analyzer should have the necessary tools and algorithms to extract the damping parameters accurately.

Sound Pressure measurements

The selection of this typical measurement equipment for sound pressure measurements is based on their ability to accurately capture and quantify the sound pressure levels in the environment. The sound level meter, microphone, calibration equipment, and windscreen or acoustic baffle work together to ensure precise and standardized sound pressure measurements, providing valuable information about noise levels and acoustic conditions.
Accelerometers
Accelerometers are fundamental tools for capturing mechanical vibrations in vibro-acoustic measurements. These sensors are used to measure the acceleration response of the structure or vibrating component. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are employed to accurately capture vibrations across various frequencies.
Sound Level Meter:

A sound level meter is the primary tool for measuring sound pressure levels. It is a handheld device equipped with a microphone that accurately captures the sound waves in the surrounding environment. The sound level meter should comply with international standards and have a wide dynamic range to measure sound pressure levels across different frequencies accurately.

Microphone:

A high-quality microphone is essential for sound pressure measurements. The microphone converts the sound waves into electrical signals, which are then processed and analyzed by the sound level meter. The choice of microphone depends on the measurement requirements, such as frequency response, sensitivity, and environmental conditions. Condenser microphones are commonly used for their high accuracy and sensitivity.

Calibration Equipment:

Calibration equipment is necessary to ensure the accuracy and reliability of sound pressure measurements. It includes calibration sound sources or pistons, which generate known sound pressure levels. These sources are used to calibrate the sound level meter and microphone before and after measurements, maintaining the traceability and accuracy of the measurement setup.

Windscreen or Acoustic Baffle:

To minimize wind noise or environmental disturbances during outdoor sound pressure measurements, a windscreen or acoustic baffle can be used. It reduces the effect of wind turbulence on the microphone, ensuring more accurate and reliable measurements in outdoor or windy conditions.

Sound Intensity measurements

Excitation sources

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Sound Intensity Probe
A sound intensity probe is a key tool for sound intensity measurements. It consists of two closely spaced microphones that capture the sound pressure simultaneously at two different locations. The probe is designed to measure the sound intensity vector, which represents the sound energy flow direction and magnitude. It provides accurate and localized measurements of sound intensity in various applications.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is essential for capturing and processing the signals from the sound intensity probe. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to accurately record the time-domain signals. The data acquisition system enables the synchronization and digitization of the signals from the two microphones, allowing for sound intensity calculation and analysis.
Signal Analyzer
A signal analyzer is used to process and analyze the captured sound intensity signals. It performs the necessary calculations to determine the sound intensity level, sound power level, and other related parameters. The signal analyzer should have the required analysis capabilities, such as cross-spectral analysis or beamforming, to accurately compute the sound intensity from the microphone signals.
Calibration Equipment
Calibration equipment is necessary to ensure the accuracy and reliability of sound intensity measurements. It includes calibration sound sources or pistons, which generate known sound intensity levels. These sources are used to calibrate the system before and after measurements, ensuring the traceability and accuracy of the measurement setup.
The selection of this typical measurement equipment for sound intensity measurements is based on their ability to accurately capture and quantify the sound energy flow in the environment. The sound intensity probe, data acquisition system, signal analyzer, and calibration equipment work together to enable precise and standardized sound intensity measurements, providing valuable insights into the sound field characteristics and source localization.

Sound Power Measurements

Excitation sources

A modal hammer is a commonly used tool in Experimental Modal Analysis. It allows to deliver controlled impact forces at different excitation locations that are measured thanks to a force cell located at its head. Modal shaker is a common alternative exciter that allows to have better control of the excitation energy over a specific frequency interval.

Sound Power Measurement System
A sound power measurement system is used to quantify the total acoustic power radiated by a sound source. It typically consists of a combination of sound intensity probes, microphones, and a data acquisition system. The system is designed to measure sound pressure levels and sound intensity at various points around the source to calculate the sound power.
Anechoic Chamber or Sound Booth
An anechoic chamber or a sound booth is an ideal environment for conducting sound power measurements. It provides a controlled space that minimizes reflections and external noise, ensuring accurate and reliable measurements. The chamber or booth is acoustically treated with sound-absorbing materials to create a free-field environment for sound power measurements.
Reference Sound Source
A reference sound source, such as a calibration sound source or a pistonphone, is used to calibrate the sound power measurement system. It generates a known sound power level, allowing for the calibration of the system and ensuring accurate and traceable measurements.
Sound Power Analysis Software
Sound power analysis software is essential for processing and analyzing the collected sound pressure and intensity data. It performs the necessary calculations to determine the sound power level based on the measured sound pressures and intensities. The software provides the required tools and algorithms to calculate sound power levels according to recognized standards and regulations.
The selection of this typical measurement equipment for sound power measurements is based on their ability to accurately quantify the acoustic power radiated by a sound source. The sound power measurement system, anechoic chamber or sound booth, reference sound source, and sound power analysis software work together to enable precise and standardized sound power measurements, providing valuable information about the sound emissions and characteristics of the source.

Rotating equipment diagnostics

Rotating equipment diagnostics is a specialized field focused on assessing the condition and performance of rotating machinery such as motors, turbines, pumps, and compressors. By analyzing various parameters and signals, it aims to identify faults, monitor operational health, and optimize the performance of these critical assets. Typical measurement equipment used for rotating equipment diagnostics includes:
Accelerometers
Accelerometers are fundamental tools for capturing mechanical vibrations in vibro-acoustic measurements. These sensors are used to measure the acceleration response of the structure or vibrating component. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are employed to accurately capture vibrations across various frequencies.
Vibration Analysis Equipment:

Vibration analysis is a primary tool for diagnosing rotating machinery. It involves the measurement and analysis of vibration signals to identify potential faults or abnormalities. Equipment such as vibration sensors (accelerometers or proximity probes), data collectors, and vibration analyzers are used to capture and analyze vibration data. These tools help detect issues like imbalance, misalignment, bearing wear, and mechanical looseness, enabling proactive maintenance and minimizing unexpected downtime.

Infrared Thermography Camera:

Infrared thermography is employed to assess the thermal condition of rotating equipment. By capturing and analyzing the thermal patterns and temperatures of different components, it can identify anomalies such as overheating, hotspots, or cooling inefficiencies. Infrared thermography cameras are used to perform non-contact temperature measurements, providing valuable insights into the condition of bearings, motors, couplings, and other rotating machinery components.

Oil Analysis Equipment:

Oil analysis is crucial for evaluating the condition of lubricants and identifying potential issues within the rotating equipment. Various oil analysis equipment, such as oil analysis kits, particle counters, and spectrometers, are used to assess parameters like oil viscosity, contamination levels, wear debris, and chemical composition. This helps detect early signs of wear, degradation, or contamination, guiding maintenance decisions and optimizing lubrication practices.

Performance Monitoring Systems:

Performance monitoring systems provide real-time monitoring and analysis of key performance parameters of rotating equipment. These systems use advanced sensors and data acquisition units to measure and analyze parameters such as speed, temperature, pressure, and power consumption. By continuously monitoring these parameters, deviations from normal operating conditions can be detected, allowing for timely interventions and performance optimization.

Vibro-acoustics

Vibro-acoustic measurements involve the assessment of both vibration and acoustic characteristics to understand the interaction between mechanical vibrations and the resulting sound. The following are the typical measurement equipment used for vibro-acoustic measurements:
Accelerometers
Accelerometers are fundamental tools for capturing mechanical vibrations in vibro-acoustic measurements. These sensors are used to measure the acceleration response of the structure or vibrating component. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are employed to accurately capture vibrations across various frequencies.
Accelerometers

Accelerometers are fundamental tools for capturing mechanical vibrations in vibro-acoustic measurements. These sensors are used to measure the acceleration response of the structure or vibrating component. High-sensitivity accelerometers with a wide frequency range are employed to accurately capture vibrations across various frequencies.

Microphones
Microphones are essential for capturing sound waves in vibro-acoustic measurements. They convert sound pressure variations into electrical signals. High-quality microphones with a wide frequency response and low noise levels are used to accurately capture sound signals across different frequencies and amplitudes.
Data Acquisition System
A reliable data acquisition system is necessary to capture, record, and synchronize the signals from accelerometers and microphones simultaneously. The data acquisition system includes a data acquisition unit that collects and digitizes the analog signals from the sensors. It should have a high sampling rate and sufficient dynamic range to ensure accurate capture of both vibration and acoustic data.
Signal Analyzer
A signal analyzer is used to process and analyze the collected vibration and acoustic data. It performs various analyses such as frequency analysis, time-domain analysis, and spectral analysis to extract valuable insights about the vibrational and acoustic characteristics of the system. The signal analyzer should have advanced analysis capabilities and visualization tools to effectively interpret and present the data.
Modal Analysis Tools
Modal analysis tools are used to determine the dynamic properties and modes of vibration of a structure. These tools utilize the collected vibration and acoustic data to identify resonant frequencies, damping factors, and mode shapes. Modal analysis software and algorithms aid in extracting modal parameters for further analysis and structural characterization.
The selection of this typical measurement equipment for vibro-acoustic measurements is based on their ability to accurately capture, record, and analyze both the vibration and acoustic characteristics of the system. The accelerometers, microphones, data acquisition system, signal analyzer, and modal analysis tools work together to enable comprehensive vibro-acoustic measurements, facilitating the understanding of structural dynamics, noise sources, and sound propagation.