Aerospace applications

Aerospace testing brings some of the toughest measurement challenges in engineering. Engine and airframe testing, launch qualification and in-orbit missions all need sensors that are light, accurate and dependable under stress.

DJB works with aerospace manufacturers, research organisations and satellite builders worldwide. Our miniature accelerometers, low-outgassing cables and specialist mounting solutions are built for these environments.

Testing for extreme operating conditions

Satellites and flight systems must survive:

• Extreme temperature swings
• High vibration and acoustic loads during launch
• Ultra-high vacuum
• Radiation exposure
• Mechanical shock and structural stress

Ground testing proves a system can cope before it flies. That only works if the sensors measuring it are just as robust, and don't change the behaviour of the structure they're fixed to.

Space testing range

Our space range is small, light and built for vacuum, from sensors on a single circuit board to full satellite assemblies. Most are hermetically sealed, so they can stay on board for launch.

Accelerometers for ground testing

In structural and environmental testing, the sensor must be light enough not to affect the structure, while staying accurate across a wide frequency range. We offer miniature, mono-axial and triaxial accelerometers, with IEPE or charge output.

Alongside the space range, commonly used models for aerospace vibration, modal and acoustic testing include:

• A/127 mono-axial IEPE accelerometer
• A/27 mono-axial charge accelerometer
• AT/01 tri-axial charge accelerometer
• AT/04 tri-axial charge accelerometer

In-flight health monitoring

DJB sensors also monitor engines and gearboxes in flight, where temperatures and stresses are high. Many are customised for specific aircraft platforms. If you need a sensor built around your application, talk to our engineers.

Low outgassing for space and vacuum testing

In a vacuum, materials can release trapped gases that contaminate optics and sensors. Everything installed on a satellite must meet strict low-outgassing requirements.

• All materials in DJB accelerometers meet low-outgassing requirements as standard.
• Around 90% of our cables are standardised to suit low-outgassing requirements.
• For space builds, connector stress relief uses a special low-outgassing heat shrink.
• Cable lengths and assemblies are made to suit your test setup.

Customers around the world have tested and verified that these materials meet the standard.

Tested on Earth, flown in space

Our A/124 miniature IEPE accelerometers are installed in satellites during the build, in both top- and side-entry versions, along with their cables and connectors. During environmental and structural testing, they monitor the satellite, giving the critical measurements that show a very expensive asset is fit for flight.

Because they're part of the build, they then launch with it, never to be seen again.

Flying today on: MetOp · Sentinel-6 · MSR-ERO

Trusted by satellite test teams including: RAL Space, Airbus, ISRO and HAL

Why aerospace engineers choose DJB

• Low-mass sensors that don't load the structure
• Hermetically sealed designs that can stay on board for launch
• Low-outgassing materials and cables as standard
• A proven record in satellite and aerospace programmes
• Custom cable assemblies and specialist ceramic-isolated mounting
• Designed and manufactured in the UK