Centrotecnica — one of Europe’s foremost vibration testing specialists — has unveiled the TWINS, a new multi-configuration testing machine engineered for the rail industry’s demanding requirements around heavy and bulky underbody component testing. The TWINS adds significant capability to what is already one of the most comprehensive vibration testing laboratories in Europe.
Three Configurations for Maximum Flexibility
The defining feature of the TWINS is its ability to operate in three distinct configurations, each suited to different specimen types and test objectives:
- Hanging specimen configuration: Designed specifically for rail underbody parts, a suspended frame uses hydraulic shakers in a push-pull arrangement. This eliminates the need for expensive, heavy custom fixtures and makes axis changes significantly faster.
- Slip table configuration: Traditional mounting with shakers configured in push-pull or push-push arrangements, depending on specimen dimensions. This mode supports conventional vibration profiles across a wide range of specimen geometries.
- Combined configuration: The suspended frame is designed for axis changes without removing the specimen — a major time saving during test campaigns that require multi-axis coverage of large assemblies.
The TWINS is already operational and is complemented by a 160 kN 4-Poster system for vertical axis testing — giving Centrotecnica’s laboratory a complete multi-axis vibration test capability for the largest rail and automotive specimens.
Meeting the Rail Industry’s Testing Challenges
Rail underbody components present some of the toughest vibration test challenges in the industry. Parts are typically large, heavy, and complex in geometry — making fixturing difficult and axis changes time-consuming. The TWINS’ suspended frame configuration addresses this directly, reducing setup time and fixture cost while maintaining test integrity.
The launch of the TWINS further cements Centrotecnica’s position as a benchmark testing resource for the rail, automotive, and transport sectors. Their laboratory, spanning three halls with over 30 machines, is one of the largest accredited vibration test facilities in Europe.
Centrotecnica Fixtures and Systems Through THP Systems
THP Systems works closely with Centrotecnica and supplies their specialist products in the UK, including slip tables and head expanders, head expanders, guided head expanders, and custom test fixtures. Whether you need to instrument a complex rail component or extend the performance of an existing shaker system, Centrotecnica’s manufacturing expertise — combined with THP Systems’ applications support — provides a complete solution.
Our THP Systems Test House also provides access to multi-axis vibration test capability for customers who need to run tests without investing in their own equipment.
Need specialist vibration test fixtures or want to learn more about Centrotecnica’s capabilities? Contact THP Systems to discuss your project.
Original source: https://www.centrotecnica.net/en/flash-news.html
