ISO 10846-3:2002

Overview

ISO 10846-3:2002 - "Acoustics and vibration - Laboratory measurement of vibro-acoustic transfer properties of resilient elements - Part 3" - defines an indirect method for determining the dynamic transfer stiffness of resilient supports for translatory motion. The standard addresses laboratory measurement of vibration transmissibility for test elements with parallel flanges, under specified static preload, covering normal and transverse translations. Typical laboratory frequency coverage runs from f2 to f3 (commonly ~20–50 Hz up to ~2–5 kHz), determined by the test rig and the isolator under test.

Key topics and requirements

• Indirect method principle: Measure transmissibility with the output loaded by a compact body of known mass (mass-like impedance) and derive the dynamic transfer stiffness from these transmissibility measurements.
• Applicable elements: Resilient supports and isolators showing approximate linear vibrational behaviour under a given preload; includes strip and mat samples when representative.
• Translations covered: Normal (perpendicular to flanges) and transverse translations; Annex A gives guidance for rotatory components.
• Frequency limits: Lower and upper test frequencies (f2, f3) are determined by the test setup and isolator; typical ranges provided (≈20–50 Hz to ≈2–5 kHz).
• Test rig and instrumentation: Requirements for exciters, accelerometers, force transducers, suppression of unwanted vibrations, summation of signals and analysers (detailed apparatus and mounting criteria are specified).
• Linearity check: Procedures for verifying approximate linearity (transmissibility vs. input level) and criteria for adequacy of the test arrangement.
• Data evaluation and reporting: Calculation of dynamic transfer stiffness, one‑third‑octave averaged values, presentation of narrow-band data, and required test report content.
• Limitations: Method does not fully characterize isolators intended primarily for low‑frequency vibration or shock attenuation; rig size may limit very small or very large specimens.

Practical applications

• Product information: Manufacturer and supplier data sheets for dynamic stiffness and transmissibility.
• Product development & R&D: Comparative performance testing during design iterations.
• Quality control: Batch testing and verification of production consistency under specified preload conditions.
• Vibration analysis & system design: Input for calculations of vibration transfer through isolators in automotive, marine, building services, industrial machinery and appliance applications.
• Laboratory characterization: Standardized method for test laboratories to provide reproducible dynamic stiffness data.

Who should use this standard

• Acoustic and mechanical engineers, test laboratories, product developers, quality managers, and suppliers of vibration isolators and resilient mounts.

Related standards

• ISO 10846 series: Part 1 (principles), Part 2 (direct method), Part 4 (other elements), Part 5 (driving point method).
• Normative references cited include ISO 266 (preferred frequencies), ISO 2041 (vibration vocabulary) and ISO 7626 series (experimental mobility).