Environmental Testing IEC 61373 : 2010

Electronic systems in rail environments face continuous mechanical stress that consumer-grade hardware simply cannot survive. IEC 61373 serves as the definitive global benchmark for validating that components will maintain operational integrity throughout their lifecycle.

  • Vibration Mitigation: Validates structural endurance against constant rail-to-wheel harmonics.
  • Shock Resistance: Ensures safety during abrupt braking or shunting impacts.
  • Lifecycle Simulation: Compresses 20 years of real-world wear into high-intensity laboratory tests.
  • Risk Reduction: Prevents catastrophic failures in mission-critical signaling and propulsion systems.

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Regulatory Framework: Applicable Standards

While IEC 61373:2010 is the primary standard for shock and vibration, it is often integrated with broader rail compliance frameworks. For Indian markets, this often aligns with IS/IEC 61373. To achieve full certification, tests are frequently performed alongside EN 50155 (Electronic equipment used on rolling stock) and IEC 60068-2 series for general environmental testing procedures.

High-Performance Hardware: Products Covered

Any component physically attached to a locomotive or rolling stock must undergo this validation.

  • Onboard Electronics: Passenger Information Systems (PIS), CCTV, and Wi-Fi routers.
  • Control Systems: Traction converters, braking units, and signaling modules.
  • Mechanical Assemblies: Battery boxes, enclosures, and sensor housings.
  • Pneumatic Devices: Compressors and air-handling units located under the chassis.

Rigorous Assessment: Scope of Testing

Testing is performed in three orthogonal axes (Vertical, Transverse, and Longitudinal) across three main stages:

  1. Functional Random Vibration: Ensuring the EUT (Equipment Under Test) operates without error during normal motion.
  2. Long-Life Endurance: High-amplitude vibration to simulate decades of mechanical fatigue.
  3. Mechanical Shock: Subjecting the unit to repeated half-sine pulses to verify structural robustness against impacts.

Global Recognition: Accreditation

To ensure results are legally and technically defensible, testing must be conducted in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. In India, labs must be recognized by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) or hold a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) recognition for the specific IEC 61373 scope to be valid for government tenders.

Project Lead Times: Timeline

  • Pre-test Setup: 2–3 business days (Fixturing and mounting).
  • Testing Duration: 5–7 business days (This includes the required 15 hours of endurance testing plus functional and shock tests).
  • Reporting: 3–5 business days for a final NABL-stamped test report.
  • Total Estimate: Approximately 2 to 3 weeks from sample arrival.

Hardware Allotment: Sample Required

  • Primary Sample: 1 Fully functional unit (Final production build).
  • Supporting Accessories: Mounting brackets, cables, and any specific enclosures used in the actual rail installation.

Note: If the product is bulky or varies in mounting, multiple chassis samples may be required for simultaneous axis testing.

Financial Investment: Testing Cost

The cost of IEC 61373 testing is dynamic, based on:

  • Weight & Dimensions: Heavier items require larger electro-dynamic shakers.
  • Category Severity: Category 3 (Axle-mounted) often commands a premium due to higher stress levels on lab equipment.
  • Custom Fixturing: Bespoke jigs required to mount the device to the shaker table.
  • Average Range: Generally varies between INR 60,000 to INR 1,50,000 depending on complexity.

Technical Dossier: Documentation

To initiate the process, the following data is mandatory:

  • Technical Data Sheet: Highlighting the weight and physical dimensions.
  • Installation Blueprint: Defining the mounting orientation (to determine axes).
  • Installation Category: Clear declaration of Category 1, 2, or 3.
  • Functional Checklist: Step-by-step instructions for the lab to verify the device is "working" during vibration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Railway environments subject electronics to extreme mechanical fatigue. This testing ensures components survive decades of continuous vibration and sudden impacts, preventing operational downtime and ensuring passenger safety.

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