What is IEC 60068-2-6:2018?

IEC 60068-2-6:2018 is an international standard that specifies requirements for testing the ability of electronic equipment to withstand vibration. It is part of the IEC 60068 series which covers various environmental testing procedures for assessing the durability and performance of electrical and electronic devices.

Understanding Vibration Testing

Vibration testing is performed to simulate the effects of vibrations that electronic equipment may experience during transportation, operation, or exposure to other dynamic environments. This type of testing helps manufacturers identify design weaknesses, improve product reliability, and ensure that devices can endure real-world conditions before being released into the market.

The IEC 60068-2-6 standard specifically focuses on sinusoidal vibration tests using a specified frequency range and acceleration levels. The aim is to assess how the equipment performs and whether it can continue to operate as intended under these vibrational stressors.

Key Parameters and Test Methods

The standard provides a set of guidelines for conducting vibration tests, including defining parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and duration. It also outlines different test methods, such as sweep sine, fixed-frequency, or resonant search and dwell, to verify if the equipment meets the specified vibration resistance requirements.

During the test, the equipment is typically subjected to vibrations applied along three mutually perpendicular axes. Accelerometers are used to measure and monitor the response of the device to vibrations while the test is ongoing. These measurements are then analyzed and compared against predefined acceptance criteria to determine the equipment's pass or fail status.

Benefits and Application Areas

Compliance with IEC 60068-2-6 ensures that electronic equipment can withstand the vibrations encountered in its intended environment. By testing products according to this standard, manufacturers can enhance product reliability, minimize the risk of failure during operation, and improve customer satisfaction.

Various industries benefit from vibration testing, including automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and industrial electronics. For example, in the automotive sector, compliance with IEC 60068-2-6 is crucial for ensuring that car components such as navigation systems, entertainment devices, or electronic control units can withstand vibrations caused by driving on uneven terrain.