Electrodynamic vibration shakers are precision test systems used to replicate real-world stresses in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and other sectors. Keeping them reliable and accurate demands more than occasional checks—it requires structured maintenance, regular monitoring, and professional support.

At CentraTEQ, we provide specialist service to keep shakers performing at their best. Here’s a practical guide to essential maintenance and common pitfalls to avoid.

Implement regular preventative maintenance
Shakers exposed to continuous or high-force testing can suffer accelerated wear if preventative care is overlooked.

• Schedule routine inspections, lubrication, and cleaning

• Watch for unusual noise, vibration, or heat

• Keep a service log to track recurring issues

Maintain calibration accuracy
Accurate calibration underpins trustworthy results and compliance. Even small drift degrades data quality.

• Follow manufacturer-recommended calibration intervals

• Use certified technicians for adjustments

• Document calibration for audit and traceability

Use compatible fixtures and accessories
Non-approved or improvised fixtures can overload the system and compromise safety.

• Use manufacturer-approved fixtures, head expanders, and mounts

• Verify load and attachment points before each test

• Consult experts for unusual payloads or configurations

Monitor cooling systems
Overheating is a frequent cause of mechanical and electrical failures, especially on high-force systems.

• Inspect air or water cooling regularly

• Clean filters and airflow paths

• Monitor temperatures during extended or high-force runs

Adhere to load and force limits
Exceeding ratings risks premature wear, amplifier trips, or catastrophic failure.

• Confirm payload weight, geometry, and mounting position

• Refer to rated capacities in the technical manual

• Consider upgrades if requirements exceed limits

Ensure electrical and grounding integrity
Poor grounding or unstable power can damage amplifiers, sensors, and controls.

• Inspect wiring and grounding points routinely

• Ensure installations meet relevant standards

• Use surge protection and stable supplies

Log and analyse vibration data
Performance trending reveals early signs of wear or misalignment.

• Record acceleration, displacement, and amplifier load during tests

• Analyse trends for anomalies

• Act proactively to prevent downtime

Maintain controllers and software
Outdated firmware or misconfigured software undermines safety and repeatability.

• Keep controllers and software up to date

• Regularly verify safety interlocks, profiles, and parameters

• Maintain documentation for compliance and troubleshooting

Why structured maintenance matters
Consistent, professional care:

• Extends system life

• Reduces unplanned downtime

• Preserves test accuracy and compliance

• Protects your investment

CentraTEQ provides preventative maintenance, calibration, repairs, component refurbishment, and amplifier upgrades to keep your equipment reliable and precise. Through our partnership with V-TEQ Ltd, we offer comprehensive service contracts covering most manufacturers’ systems—from coil winding and electronics testing to component repair and replacement—minimising disruption to your operations.

Contact CentraTEQ to arrange a consultation and secure long-term, dependable performance for your vibration testing systems.