Accelerometer transverse sensitivity calibration; validation and uncertainty estimation

Authors

  • Christiaan Smith Veldman NMISA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21014/acta_imeko.v4i2.209

Abstract

The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) has implemented a system to measure the transverse sensitivity of vibration transducers. As a mechanical device, the principle sensing axis of an accelerometer is not 100 % perpendicular to the mounting axis. This gives rise to the effect that the accelerometer will produce an electrical output even when a mechanical input perpendicular to the principle measurement axis is applied. The quantification of this "defect" parameter is of importance when high accuracy acceleration measurements are performed using accelerometers. This paper gives a brief overview of the system developed by the NMISA to measure the transverse sensitivity of vibration transducers. The paper then explores the validation of the system along with the uncertainty of measurement associated with the calibration system.

Author Biography

Christiaan Smith Veldman, NMISA

Ian joined the NMISA in 1990 and obtained his Masters Diploma in Electronic Engineering at the Tshwane University of Technology in 1994. He has been involved in Acoustics and Vibration Metrology for over 20 years, during which time he has developed a number of National Measurement Standards in these fields. He actively represents the NMISA, SABS and SA on National, Regional and International Metrology related forums and standards development.

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Published

2015-06-29

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 2 (2015)

Section

Research Papers

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