Preparing for vibration tests

Hispasat-AG1’s Europe antenna reflector on the move to the 320kN multishaker and the 640kN QUAD multishaker for vibration tests at ESA’s Test Centre in Noordwijk, the Netherlands.

The QUAD multishaker is the most powerful electrodynamic shaker at the test centre. A magnesium alloy head expander connected to the four shakers creates a 3.3 x 3.3m interface for payload installation. It tests payloads in a vertical direction thanks to a thrust of 640 kN generated by four single 160 kN shakers. The 320kN Multishaker tests payloads in a horizontal direction thanks to a thrust of 320kN generated by two single 160 kN shakers. A large light slip table connected to the two shakers creates a 3.5 x 3m interface for payload installation.

European Test Services operates ESA'S ESTEC Test Centre.