Each PCB® Modally Tuned®, ICP® instrumented impact hammer features a rugged, force sensor that is integrated into the hammer’s striking surface.

“Modal Tuning” is a feature that ensures the structural characteristics of the hammer do not affect measurement results. This is accomplished by eliminating hammer resonances in the frequency range of interest from corrupting the test data, resulting in more accurate and consistent measurements.

The force sensor serves to provide a measurement of the amplitude and frequency content of the energy stimulus that is imparted to a test object. Accelerometers are used in conjunction with the hammer to provide a measurement of the object’s structural response due to the hammer blow. A variety of tips supplied with each hammer permit the energy content of the force impulse to be tailored to suit the requirements of the item under test.

Using multi-channel data acquisition and analysis software, the test engineer is able to ascertain a variety of mechanical properties leading to an understanding of an object’s structural behavioral characteristics. Items analyzed can include resonance detection, mode shapes, transfer characteristics, and structural health – such as crack and fatigue detection.

How do I know which impact hammer to select for my application?
The general rule of thumb to follow is the larger the structure to excite, the larger the impact hammer required. Some selection guidelines are as follows:

086E80 - Printed Circuit Boards & Hard Drives

086C01 – Lightly Damped Panels & Frames

086C02, C03, & C04 – Medium sized structures such as Car Frames, Engines, & Machined Parts

086D05 – Heavier sized components such as Pumps & Compressors

086D20 – Heavy Structures such as Tool Foundations & Storage Tanks

086D50 – Large Structures such as Buildings, Bridges, & Ships