Torsional excitation (TE) is a process by which machine operators can determine how well a machine is going to perform. It uses electrodynamic shakers (ES), to put what amounts to wear and tear on parts so it is easy to tell if they will hold up in real life situations. The machines mimic real movement and undergo numerous trials, enabling companies to determine if parts are strong enough and whether they will work well. It also gives them the ability to determine what will wear away quickest and what problems might occur, so they can make changes before a part is in use. This is important because in many cases, these parts are used in manufacturing or in vehicles, both instances when a malfunction could result in a serious injury.

Once the ES process shows what weaknesses a part will have, manufacturers can make improvements. If it looks as if there is an imbalance in the weight of a part and over time the left side wears down before the right side, a manufacturer can either work to balance the part or if that is impossible, strengthen the left side. This ensures that by the time the part reaches the consumer as part of an entire machine, it is as strong and long-lasting as possible.

Using TE to test machine parts is useful because it gives measurable results. Instead of guessing how many uses a part can undergo before wearing down, you have actual proof. The tests are performed in a very scientific way, so you know exactly how long a part can be safely used for. You see the part in action in a real-life scenario, so the results are accurate and easy to understand.

This makes the results easy to record. If you are measuring the performance of a machine part, you are responsible for the safety of those who will be using it. This might be in your own company or it might be later down the line in the consumer market. Whatever the case, if you test a part, you need to be able to assess and record the results so you have a record of what you have done. The easier the results are to understand and analyze, the easier they are record and back up, should an accident occur.

Finally, TE testing and using ES machines are an affordable way to measure the performances of a machine part. These options are not dirt cheap, of course, but the cost when weighed against the risk of using a faulty part more than pays for itself. You can operate a machine with the assurance that it is safe and can stand the test of time, even under duress. The investment of the testing pays for itself both financially and emotionally, especially when you are able to assure your employees they work in a safe environment that takes the time and invests the money into making sure their workday will be free of serious, long term risk.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter recently met with an engineer who could explain the use of torsional excitation and its benefits. He observed the electrodynamic shakers in use at a local manufacturing company.

Category: Business
Keywords: torsional excitation,electrodynamic shakers