Vibrophore 15 kN to 1,000 kN

Test load

Max. 1,000 kN

Type of test

Fatigue
Fracture mechanics
Tensile
Compression

Standards

DIN 50100
ASTM E399
ASTM E466
ISO 6892

Description Video Advantages & features Technical data Testing software Customer projects FAQs

The vibrophore for static and dynamic tests

A vibrophore is a resonance testing machine that uses a mechanical resonator in connection with an electromagnetic drive. The dynamic load is generated by an oscillation system that works when the system operates at full resonance. The mean force is applied by moving the upper crosshead with the lead screw drive.

In the past, vibrophores were limited to dynamic materials testing (i.e. the determination of high cycle fatigue strength). With the newest generation of the vibrophore high-frequency fatigue testing machines, you can perform static tests at test forces up to 1,000 kN. The vibrophore’s electromagnetic drive delivers large force amplitudes with low energy input, so they work more efficiently than conventional instruments.

Typical applications for resonance testing systems are material fatigue tests and durability tests on standardized specimens and components (for example, piston rods, crankshafts, and screws), and production and quality control of components exposed to dynamic loads during their service life, such as concrete and reinforcing steel, as well as quasi-static tensile and compression tests and fracture mechanics tests on CT and SEB specimens.

Videos: Vibrophores in operation

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Fatigue test on screws

The vibrophore series of resonance testing machines can be used for fatigue tests on threaded fasteners.

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Fatigue test on reinforcing bars

For high cycle fatigue tests on concrete-reinforcing steel, the ends of the specimen are embedded. The test is performed using a 500 kN resonance testing system.

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Bruchzähigkeitsprüfung nach ASTM E399

Der Bruchzähigkeitstest nach ASTM E399 wird mit einem Vibrophore wird an einer sogenannten CT Probe durchgeführt. Der ermittelte Kennwert ist der kritische Spannungsintensitätsfaktor K1C.

Advantages and features

Advantages & Features

Optimal conditions with regard to exact alignment of test axes thanks to the stiff four-column load frame
- Prevention of mechanical influences on the specimen
- Precise measurement results
Reliable testing of both short and long specimens, made possible by the large crosshead travel
Ergonomic operation thanks to low mounting table
Repeatable and precise specimen change for defined grip-to-grip separation due to the integrated crosshead travel measuring system
Minimal maintenance costs due to the absence of wear parts
Easy installation without the need for additional infrastructure (e.g. hydraulics, coolant, compressed air)

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Two in one - the advantages

The vibrophore is a full-fledged dynamic and static testing machine in one

Short test times and a high specimen throughput level for dynamic tests due to high frequencies
Minimum energy is required thanks to the resonance principle (approx. 2% of the energy required by a servohydraulic testing machine)

Dynamic testing

Materials and components may fail prematurely under oscillating loads. For this reason, the behavior of materials under alternating mechanical loading is an important decision criterion, for which the necessary data are obtained through a variety of differen tests.

Determination of finite life fatigue strength and high cycle fatigue strength – high cycle fatigue (HCF) test / S-N test
Determination of the fracture mechanics

The operating principle of the ZwickRoell vibrophore is based on the concept of a mechanical resonator with electromagnetic drive. The mean force is applied by moving the upper crosshead with the lead screw drive. The dynamic load is generated by an oscillation system that works when the system operates at full resonance. In this way test frequencies of up to 285Hz are possible, provided the specimens are sufficiently stiff. The dynamic and static drives are controlled separately, so that stress ratios (R-ratios) of any kind are possible. Tests can be force-, displacement- or strain-controlled.

Static tests

Mechanical clamping of the oscillating crosshead and implementation of the testXpert III testing software transform the Vibrophore into a true static materials testing machine.

Generous connecting surfaces and robust components ensure high machine stiffness. In combination with precision crosshead guidance, the Vibrophore minimizes unacceptable mechanical influences on the specimen. By using suitable accessories, both static and dynamic tests can be performed under various environmental conditions (temperature, aggressive media). The Vibrophore can also be configured for torsion and flexure tests.

The absence of a central lead screw enables test area variability to be maximized on the new Vibrophore, which makes it possible to test very short specimens as well as large components.

Technical overview

Fmax	15	kN
Mean load, max.	±15	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±7.5	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	6 (±3)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	35 ... 300	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 170	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	600	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	±2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	2375	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	693	mm
H2 – height of test area	1200	mm
H5 - height of test area including load cell	1100	mm
B2 – Width	885	mm
T3 – Depth	645	mm
T2 - Depth of base	482	mm
Weight, approx.	1900	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1200	mm
Test area depth	482	mm
Width of clearance between columns	610⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	1099	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 15 including testControl II	3007123
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1028357
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	25	kN
Mean load, max.	±25	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±12.5	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	6 (±3)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	35 ... 300	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 170	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	600	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	±2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	2375	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	693	mm
H2 – height of test area	1200	mm
H5 - height of test area including load cell	1100	mm
B2 – Width	890	mm
T3 – Depth	645	mm
T2 - Depth of base	482	mm
Weight, approx.	1900	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1200	mm
Test area depth	482	mm
Width of clearance between columns	610⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	1099	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 25 including testControl II	1050926
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1028357
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1033236

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	50	kN
Mean load, max.	±50	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±25	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	6 (±3)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	35 ... 300	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 170	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	600	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	±2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	2375	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	693	mm
H2 – height of test area	1200	mm
H5 - height of test area including load cell	1100	mm
B2 – Width	890	mm
T3 – Depth	645	mm
T2 - Depth of base	482	mm
Weight, approx.	1900	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1200	mm
Test area depth	482	mm
Width of clearance between columns	610⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	1099	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 50 including testControl II	1023099
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1028360
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1033326

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	100	kN
Mean load, max.	±100	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±50	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	6 (±3)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	30 ... 285	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 380	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	600	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	±2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	2565	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	794	mm
H2 – height of test area	1200	mm
H5 - height of test area including load cell	1007	mm
B2 – Width	1094	mm
T3 – Depth	770	mm
T2 - Depth of base	553	mm
Weight, approx.	3200	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1200	mm
Test area depth	550	mm
Width of clearance between columns	626⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	977.5	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 100 including testControl II	084142
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1009579
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1001259

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	250	kN
Mean load, max.	±250	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±125	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	6 (±3)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	30 ... 285	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 380	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	600	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	±2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	2565	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	794	mm
H2 – height of test area	1200	mm
H5 – height of test area including load cell	915	mm
B2 – Width	1094	mm
T3 – Depth	770	mm
T2 - Depth of base	553	mm
Weight, approx.	3200	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1200	mm
Test area depth	550	mm
Width of clearance between columns	626⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	925	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 250 including testControl II	1001253
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1009581
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1001259

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	500	kN
Mean load, max.	± 500	kN
Force amplitude, max.	± 250	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	4 (± 2)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	35 ... 285	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 960	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	250	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	± 2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	3465	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	930	mm
H2 – height of test area	1680	mm
H5 – height of test area including load cell	1347	mm
B2 – Width	1220	mm
T2 – Depth	1369	mm
Weight, approx.	9000	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1700	mm
Test area depth	640	mm
Width of clearance between columns	780⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	1700	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 500 including testControl II	1011633
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1012275
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1012273

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	600	kN
Mean load, max.	± 600	kN
Force amplitude, max.	± 300	kN
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	4 (± 2)	mm
Testing frequency range¹	30 ... 265	Hz
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 880	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	250	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	± 2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	3465	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	930	mm
H2 – height of test area	1680	mm
H5 – height of test area including load cell	1347	mm
B2 – Width	1220	mm
T2 – Depth	1369	mm
Weight, approx.	9000	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	1700	mm
Test area depth	640	mm
Width of clearance between columns	780⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.	1700	mm
Item No.
Vibrophore 600 including testControl II	1030616
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1012275
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1012273

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

Fmax	1000	kN
Mean load, max.	±1000	kN
Force amplitude, max.	±500	kN
Testing frequency range¹	30 ... 150	Hz
Elastic specimen strain (oscillation displacement) max.	4 (±2)	mm
Number of frequency steps²	8
Number of guide columns	4
Number of lead screws	2
Frame stiffness at 1000mm crosshead separation³	Approx. 880	kN/mm
Drive
Static tests and for mean force control	AC drive
Min. crosshead speed	0.0001	mm/min
Max. crosshead speed	250	mm/min
Crosshead return speed, max.	1000	mm/min
Positioning repeatability on crosshead	± 2	µm
Motor holding brake	Yes
Dynamic tests	Wear-free electromagnetic drive
Dimensions, load frame
H4 – height	4538	mm
H3 – height of clamping table	1058	mm
H2 – height of test area	2320	mm
H5 – height of test area including load cell	2005	mm
B2 – Width	1620	mm
T2 – Depth	1445	mm
Weight, approx.	17500	kg
Test area dimensions
Test area height without load cell	2310	mm
Test area depth	1995	mm
Width of clearance between columns	982⁴	mm
Machine frame travel, max.		mm
Item No.
Optional: Two in one for static tests	1017257
Optional: Oscillation displacement measurement	1012273

The testing frequency is determined using the stiffness and mass of the test arrangement.
By activating/deactivating the weights
Stiffness of the load frame: This value results from a direct measurement of deformation between the crossheads (moving crosshead and base crosshead) and does not take into account the deformation from drives and load cells.
Without bellows

testControl II measurement and control electronics
Control frequency	10 kHz
Measured-value acquisition	10 kHz, 24 bits, arithmetical
Slots	5 x module bus (of which 2 are assigned in the standard configuration)
PC interface	GigaBit Ethernet
Integrated safety concept	2-channel specification for maximum safety
	Interface for interlocked safety doors
	Interface for emergency stop link
Display-equipped remote control	Set-up or testing mode
	<EMERGENCY STOP> button
	Key switch for switching between setup and testing modes
Dimensions, testControl II measurement and control electronics
H1 - Height without tabletop	1000	mm
B1 – Width	600	mm
T1 – Depth	600	mm
Weight, approx.	135	kg
Length of cable between vibrophore & testControl II	5	m
Accessories
Universal measurement amplifier (029443	Either AC or DC supply
	Strain gauge, half and full bridge
	4- and 6-conductor technology
IO card (029448)	1 analog ± 10V input (controllable)
	2 analog ± 10 V outputs
	4 digital inputs, 24 V
	3 digital outputs, 24 V
	1 relay output, potential free

testXpert R – our software for dynamic testing

testXpert R is used with servohydraulic testing machines, vibrophores and electrodynamic testing machines. The testing software offers the right test programs for fatigue tests, fracture mechanics, low cycle fatigue (LCF). A graphical block editor is available for free test configurations, where up to 100 blocks can be parameterized.

Learn more about the testXpert R testing software

Do you have questions about our dynamic products?

Please feel free to contact our experts. We will be happy to discuss your needs.

Other dynamic testing machines

Interesting applications for resonance testing machines

Metals | Fatigue test (S-N curve test)

DIN 50100

to Metals | Fatigue test (S-N curve test)

Metals | Threaded fasteners | Fatigue test

ISO 3800, DIN 969, MIL-STD-1312

to Metals | Threaded fasteners | Fatigue test

Metals | Fracture mechanics crack growth da/dN

ASTM E647

to Metals | Fracture mechanics crack growth da/dN

Metals | Fracture mechanics critical stress intensity factor K1C

ASTM E399

to Metals | Fracture mechanics critical stress intensity factor K1C

Metals | Tensile test (ambient temperature)

ISO 6892-1

to Metals | Tensile test (ambient temperature)

Downloads

Product Information: Vibrophore 15 PDF 257 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 25 PDF 232 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 50 PDF 227 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 100 PDF 320 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 250 PDF 310 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 500 PDF 312 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 600 PDF 314 KB
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Product Information: Vibrophore 1000 PDF 325 KB
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Product Information: Load cell Xforce dynamic PDF 314 KB
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Product Brochure: Dynamic and Fatigue Testing Systems PDF 5 MB
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- EN

Interesting customer projects

Other companies use the Vibrophore

Technical University of Gabrovo – Faculty of Mechanical and Precision Engineering, Bulgaria

The University of Gabrovo performs fatigue tests on structural components made of high-strength aluminum alloys, mild steel and bronze. During a new project, our Vibrophore 100 was used for research purposes.

FAQ

What is a vibrophore?

A vibrophore is an oscillation system that uses a mechanical resonator in connection with an electromagnetic drive. Vibrophores can be used to apply a dynamic load on material specimens.

What are vibrophores used for?

Vibrophores are used for high cycle fatigue tests in the areas of tensile, compression, pulsating and alternating loads. In addition, fracture mechanics tests are performed on CT (compact tension) and SEB (singe edge bending) specimens.

What are typical applications for vibrophores?

Vibrophores are used on drive chains, crankshafts, piston rods and timing chains in vehicle motors, on turbine blades or concrete and reinforcing steel.

What is special about fatigue testing machines from ZwickRoell?

ZwickRoell vibrophores are available in eight models for resonance fatigue tests up to 1,000 kN. The extremely stiff load frame consists of four columns to achieve excellence in guide qualities. Mechanical clamping of the oscillating crosshead and the implementation of the testXpert III testing software transform the Vibrophore into a true static materials testing machine.