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Technical service provider and
supplier for simulation and testing

Modal analysis

Modal analysis

Numerical and experimental modal analysis

Experimental modal analysis

As a service provider for modal analyses, we perform experimental modal analyses. Here, we measure and analyze your product to determine its vibration behavior and the associated natural frequencies, natural modes and damping properties. The procedure includes the following steps:

Planning

Analysis of the use case, the system and the customer requirements. Determine the test environment and measurement equipment.

Preparation

Setting up the system, installing the sensors and measuring systems.

Suggestion

Stimulating the system with controlled external forces, such as impulse hammers or shakers.

Measurement

Acquisition of the vibration response using the installed sensors.

Data Analysis

Identification of eigenmodes, natural frequencies and damping characteristics via analysis software.

Evaluation

Presentation of results and discussion of optimization measures or solutions for vibration problems.

Numerical modal analysis

We carry out numerical modal analyses for you. This is usually based on mathematical models and the finite element method (FEM). It allows the simulation of the vibration behavior of an object or structure without having to perform physical tests. The process includes:

  • Model

    Creation of a mathematical model (geometrical, material, mechanical properties)

  • FEM

    Application of the finite element method

  • Calculations

    Calculation of natural frequencies, natural modes and damping of structural vibrations

Order modal analysis

You need a modal analysis? Describe me your application and the requirements in the project. I will be happy to advise you whether a numerical or experimental modal analysis - or a combined procedure - makes sense.

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Dr.-Ing. Michael Kwade

Combining measurement and simulation

Modal analyses with more significance

We combine numerical and experimental modal analysis to validate the plausibility of measurement and simulation. Sometimes it is challenging to obtain an exact result with the

Combining measurement and simulation

Modal analyses with more significance

We combine numerical and experimental modal analysis to validate the plausibility of measurement and simulation. Sometimes it is challenging to generate an accurate result with numerical modal analysis. Also, the measurement of eigenmodes can be inaccurate or generally difficult to implement, e.g. due to inaccessible parts. By performing measurements and simulations and comparing the results, we gain valuable impulses for the detection of uncertainties. You benefit from more information content and receive results with guaranteed decision-making reliability.

Why are modal analyses often underestimated?

Our experience protects you from expense and miscalculation

Due to the numerous past projects, we know the peculiarities and anomalies in modal analysis. We can evaluate the plausibility of results and ensure that you receive precise and meaningful analyses as a basis for decision-making. Why the calculation of eigenmodes is often underestimated: 

Seemingly fast results

Modal analyses achieve a result quickly, but the quality and significance depend on many details that can easily be overlooked. Practical example of errors in modal analysis

Influential details

Certain factors, (e.g. material/geometry properties and boundary conditions) are critical for accurate results and require an experienced eye. Practical example of errors in modal analysis

Linearization

The necessity to linearize all elements for modal analyses is often forgotten or underestimated, but leads to wrong results or a wrong interpretation. 

Experience in the evaluation of results

Interpretation and evaluation of the results require expertise and experience to assess their plausibility and derive informed decisions. 

The value of careful work

Application example: Prxecision at the acoustic test bench

High-precision results are required when determining the eigenmodes of an acoustic test rig. Therefore, we performed the modal analysis for a customer both experimentally and numerically. When comparing the results, deviations in the natural frequencies became apparent that would not have been noticed without comparing measurement and simulation. The reason: simple carrying handles were mounted on the base plate for transport. For an inexperienced computational engineer, these may not play a role in the vibration behavior of the floor slab. However, we found that they significantly influenced the eigenmodes of the test rig - not by stiffness, but surprisingly by the (minimum) mass of the handles.

discussing engineers

Efficiency through experience

We teach modal analysis

"Many years of experience and expertise in performing modal analyses" are by no means mere empty phrases: We have dealt intensively with numerical and experimental modal analysis and have

Efficiency through experience

We teach modal analysis

"Many years of experience and expertise in performing modal analyses" are by no means mere empty phrases: We have intensively studied numerical and experimental modal analysis and designed an academic course as a result. Our scientific commitment leads to the fact that companies regularly commission us with modal analyses and we thus continuously deepen and update our practical experience. Therefore, we are able to offer modal analyses in an extremely targeted and efficient manner - an advantage that only few service providers can boast.

Complete course modal analysis

Modal analysis lecture

Webinar

Basics of modal analysis

Learn the basics of modal analysis: How does modal analysis help you identify the sources of disturbing noise or vibration?

Watch webinar
Packages and components

Any questions?

I would also be happy to spontaneously answer your question about modal analysis!

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Dr.-Ing. Michael Kwade

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Novicos Ltd.

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