Triaxial Earthquake and Shock Simulator (TESS)

CERL operates the TESS, a unique dual-mode shock and vibration test facility, which, in its biaxial mode, simulates a wide range of transient shock vibrations typical of military applications requiring large accelerations over a wide frequency range with moderately heavy test specimens. In the triaxial mode, it can simulate a variety of vibration environments including earthquakes and random vibrations, as well as log-sweep and resonant searches. In this mode, the TESS can test larger specimens over larger displacement ranges more typical of seismic vibrations. The table below lists the performance parameters for the two test modes. The TESS combines a high payload capability with a broad frequency range, high acceleration performance, a wide displacement range, and simultaneous, independent control of up to three axes of vibration. Biaxial performance is rated with a 12,000 pound payload, and the triaxial performance with a 120,000 pound payload. Larger payloads can be tested at lower acceleration levels, while smaller payloads can be tested at up to twice the rated accelerations.