Aerospace applications
Reliable vibration measurement for aerospace and space environments
Aerospace testing presents some of the most demanding measurement challenges faced by engineers today. From aircraft development and engine testing through to satellite qualification and launch validation, accurate vibration measurement plays a critical role in ensuring safety, performance and reliability.
DJB Instruments supports aerospace manufacturers, research organisations and satellite developers worldwide with accelerometers, cables and instrumentation designed to operate in extreme environments.
Testing for extreme operating conditions
Aerospace components must withstand significant environmental stresses throughout their lifecycle. Satellites and flight systems are exposed to conditions including:
- Extreme temperature variation
- High vibration and acoustic loads during launch
- Ultra-high vacuum environments
- Radiation exposure
- Mechanical shock and structural stress
Reliable measurement during ground testing and validation ensures systems are capable of surviving these demanding operational environments.
Accelerometers for ground testing
During structural and environmental testing, accelerometers are selected to minimise mass loading while maintaining measurement accuracy across a wide frequency range.
Typical solutions include miniature, monoaxial and triaxial accelerometers available in both IEPE and charge output configurations.
Commonly used models include:
- A/127
- A/27
- AT/10
- AT/01
- AT/14
- AT/04
These sensors support vibration, modal and acoustic testing during aerospace development and qualification programmes.
In-flight health monitoring
Aerospace propulsion systems require continuous monitoring in high-temperature and high-stress environments. DJB provides accelerometers designed for engine and gearbox monitoring applications, many of which are customised to suit specific aircraft platforms.
Typical solutions include:
- A/81
- A/107
Custom sensor configurations are frequently developed to meet installation, temperature and operational requirements.
Low outgassing solutions for space applications
Materials used in satellites must meet stringent low outgassing requirements to prevent contamination in vacuum environments. DJB supplies accelerometers, cables and connector assemblies specifically prepared for space and vacuum testing applications.
Key considerations include:
- Low outgassing cable materials
- Specialised connector strain relief systems
- Vacuum-compatible construction materials
- Customised cable lengths for satellite integration
Most DJB cable assemblies are manufactured using materials compatible with low outgassing requirements, with specialised heat-shrink solutions applied where required.
Application example: satellite structural testing
DJB miniature IEPE accelerometers, including the A/124 series, are commonly installed directly into satellite structures during the build process. Both top-entry and side-entry configurations are used depending on installation constraints.
Once integrated, satellites undergo extensive environmental and structural testing to validate survivability during launch. DJB accelerometers provide critical measurement feedback throughout vibration and qualification testing programmes.
As part of the satellite assembly, these sensors often remain installed throughout the mission lifecycle, supporting testing on Earth before continuing into operational service in space.
Why aerospace engineers choose DJB
- Low outgassing accelerometers and cables
- Low-mass sensor designs
- High reliability in demanding environments
- Proven aerospace testing track record
- Custom cable assemblies
- Specialist ceramic mounting solutions
Discuss your aerospace application
Every aerospace programme presents unique measurement challenges. Our engineering team works closely with customers to specify sensors and cabling solutions suited to their testing or monitoring requirements.
Contact DJB Instruments to discuss your aerospace application →
Precision vibration sensors for demanding aerospace testing and monitoring applications. Designed for accurate measurement across structural, acoustic and high-temperature environments.
Signal conditioning and measurement instrumentation designed to preserve data accuracy from sensor through to acquisition and analysis systems.
Low-noise cables, connectors and mounting accessories engineered to maintain signal integrity in harsh testing and operational environments.
Built to meet your exact application requirements
From ultra-flexible low-noise cables to armoured and miniature assemblies, DJB designs and manufactures bespoke cable solutions tailored to your installation and testing environment.
Extend cable life and maintain measurement performance
Our inspection and repair service restores damaged or worn assemblies, helping reduce replacement costs while ensuring continued measurement reliability.
Maintain measurement accuracy and confidence in your test data
DJB calibration services verify accelerometer performance and ensure sensors continue to meet required measurement standards throughout their operational life.
Choose the right sensor for your application
Understand how sensitivity, frequency range, mounting method and operating environment influence accelerometer performance.
Maximise measurement accuracy through correct installation
Learn how mounting techniques influence frequency response, signal quality and overall test reliability.
Engineering knowledge supporting accurate measurement
Access application notes, technical guidance, and reference material covering accelerometer selection, mounting methods, instrumentation considerations, and vibration measurement best practices.
