Intercooler modal analysis
Problem
Unexpected and unexplained intercooler failures.
Aim
To determine the root of this failure through a series of measurements.
Instrumentation/ measurement
Some in-field measurements were performed to determine the real on-track vibration pattern. Component modal characterisation tests were then performed at the CETEST test lab.
Results
CETEST observed that the intercooler suffered excessive vibrations because of a poorly designed support. Modal analysis was performed on the intercooler and the intercooler + support assembly to determine if there was any coupling between the vibration modes.
Actions
A new design taking into account intercooler vibration modes was proposed for the support.
© CETEST 2017