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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 analysis, we carry out experimental modal analysis. We measure and analyze your product in order to determine its vibration behavior and the associated natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping properties. The procedure comprises the following steps:

Planning

Analysis of the use case, the system and the customer requirements. Defining the test environment and measuring 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

Recording the vibration response using the installed sensors.

Data analysis

Identification of eigenmodes, natural frequencies and damping properties 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 makes it possible to simulate the vibration behavior of an object or structure without having to carry out physical tests. The process includes

  • Model

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

  • FEM

    Application of the finite element method

  • Calculations

    Calculation of natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping of structural vibrations

Order modal analysis

Do you need a modal analysis? Tell me about your application and the requirements of your project. I will be happy to advise you on whether a numerical or experimental modal analysis - or a combined method - is appropriate.

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Dr.-Ing. Michael Kwade

Combining measurement and simulation

Modal analyses with more informative value

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

Combining measurement and simulation

Modal analyses with more informative value

We combine numerical and experimental modal analysis to validate the plausibility of measurement and simulation. Sometimes it is challenging to generate an exact result with numerical modal analysis. The measurement of eigenmodes can also be inaccurate or generally difficult to implement, e.g. due to inaccessible parts. By carrying out measurements and simulations and comparing the results, we obtain valuable impulses for detecting 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

Thanks to numerous past projects, we are familiar with the peculiarities and anomalies of modal analysis. We can assess 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: 

Apparently quick results

Modal analyses quickly produce a result, 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/geometric properties and boundary conditions) are crucial for accurate results and require an experienced eye. Practical example of errors in modal analysis

Linearization

The need to linearize all elements for modal analyses is often forgotten or underestimated, but leads to incorrect results or an incorrect interpretation. 

Experience in evaluating results

The interpretation and evaluation of the results require specialist knowledge and experience in order to assess their plausibility and derive well-founded decisions. 

The value of careful work

Application example: Precision on the acoustic test bench

High-precision results are required when determining the eigenmodes of an acoustic test bench. We therefore carried out the modal analysis for a customer both experimentally and numerically. A comparison of the results revealed deviations in the natural frequencies that would not have been noticeable without the comparison of measurement and simulation. The reason: simple carrying handles were mounted on the base plate for transportation. For an inexperienced calculation engineer, these may not play a role in the vibration behavior of the base plate. However, we found that they had a significant influence on the eigenmodes of the test stand - not due to their stiffness, but surprisingly due to the (minimal) mass of the handles.

discussing engineers

Efficiency through experience

We teach modal analysis

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

Efficiency through experience

We teach modal analysis

"Many years of experience and expertise in carrying out modal analyses" are by no means just empty phrases: We have dealt intensively with numerical and experimental modal analysis and have designed an academic course as a result. Our scientific commitment means that companies regularly commission us to carry out modal analyses, enabling us to continuously deepen and update our practical experience. This puts us in a position to offer modal analyses in an extremely targeted and efficient manner - an advantage that only a few service providers can boast.

Complete modal analysis course

Lecture Modal Analysis

Webinar

Basics of modal analysis

Learn the basics of modal analysis: How does modal analysis help you to identify the sources of disturbing noises or vibrations?

Watch webinar
Packages and components

Any questions?

I would also be happy to answer your questions about modal analysis on the spot!

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Dr.-Ing. Michael Kwade

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Novicos GmbH

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