Environmental Testing IEC 61373 : 2010

IEC 61373:2010 is the definitive international standard for ensuring the mechanical integrity of equipment installed on railway vehicles. It simulates the harsh operational environment of a moving train, validating that components can withstand years of constant vibration and sudden mechanical shocks without structural failure or functional degradation. This standard is not merely about durability; it is a critical safety benchmark required by major railway operators globally to prevent catastrophic equipment detachment or electronic failure on the tracks.

  • Random Vibration: Simulates continuous operational stress.
  • Mechanical Shock: Replicates shunting and braking impacts.
  • Fatigue Resistance: Validates long-term structural life.
  • Functional Integrity: Ensures performance during movement.

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Regulatory Benchmark

IEC 61373:2010 | Railway applications – Rolling stock equipment – Shock and vibration tests (Note: This standard is often required in conjunction with EN 50155 for electronic equipment on rolling stock.)

Component Eligibility & Classification

This standard covers virtually any electromechanical or electronic component mounted on a train. We categorize products based on their mounting location, as the vibration intensity increases significantly closer to the track:

  • Category 1 (Body Mounted): Equipment fixed to the coach body (e.g., Passenger Information Systems, lighting, control panels).
  • Class A: Cubicles/Amalgamations.
  • Class B: Direct mounting.
  • Category 2 (Bogie Mounted): Equipment attached to the wheel truck frame (e.g., sensors, braking units).
  • Category 3 (Axle Mounted): Components directly on the wheelset (high-vibration environment).

Technical Scope of Validation

To certify compliance, the Equipment Under Test (EUT) must endure a three-stage rigorous testing protocol across all three axes (Vertical, Transverse, and Longitudinal):

  1. Functional Random Vibration: The device is powered on and tested at service levels to ensure no signal interruption or malfunction occurs.
  2. Simulated Long-Life Testing: An accelerated fatigue test (non-operational) using increased vibration levels to simulate the equipment’s entire life cycle in a short duration.
  3. Shock Testing: High-impact half-sine pulses to simulate shunting jolts or emergency braking, ensuring mechanical mounts do not shear or loosen.

Lab Competence & Accreditation

All testing is conducted under a strict quality management system. The reports generated are fully accredited by NABL (ISO/IEC 17025) and recognized by ILAC, ensuring they are accepted by Indian Railways, Metro Rail Corporations, and international rolling stock manufacturers (OEMs).

Project Lifecycle & Turnaround

We understand that project deadlines are often tight.

  • Standard Testing Duration: 3 to 5 working days (depending on the number of axes and functional monitoring complexity).
  • Report Issuance: 2 to 3 working days post-testing.

Sample Submission Prerequisites

To ensure a smooth testing process without delays, the following items are required:

  • One (1) Fully Functional Unit: The device must be production-ready.
  • Mounting Accessories: All brackets, bolts, and fasteners intended for actual installation must be provided.
  • Mating Connectors/Cables: Required for functional monitoring during the test.

Note: If a specialized mounting fixture is required to secure your product to the vibration shaker, please consult with us beforehand.

Investment & Commercials

Pricing for IEC 61373 testing is custom-quoted based on:

  1. Weight and Dimensions: Heavier items require larger electro-dynamic shakers.
  2. Fixture Fabrication: Whether a custom jig needs to be designed to hold the sample.
  3. Functional Monitoring: The complexity of monitoring the device (live power/data) during the test.

Essential Documentation

For the final test report to be valid and complete, please provide:

  • General Arrangement (GA) Drawing.
  • Bill of Materials (BOM) or Product Datasheet.
  • Weight and dimensions of the unit.
  • ISO 9001 Certificate of the manufacturer (if applicable).
  • User Manual regarding mounting instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

It validates that rolling stock equipment can endure the harsh shock and vibration environment of railway operations without suffering mechanical damage or performance loss.

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