Vibration analysis plays a central role in the manufacture and testing of turbomachinery components – whether in power generation, aerospace or automotive suppliers. But what if this step were not only more reliable, but also more economical and scalable? This is precisely what the Vibration test stand (VTS) from MAUL-THEET promises.
What can I actually do with a VTS?
As a manufacturer or maintenance specialist of components such as turbine or compressor blades, the question regularly arises: “How certain am I that this component will not cause resonance problems during operation?” The VTS provides the answer – automatically, precisely, and reproducibly:
- Determining natural frequencies and damping
The VTS measures the vibration characteristics of each individual blade. The system detects even the smallest deviations – even within near-production tolerance ranges. - Identify outliers
Components that fall outside the permissible frequency limits are automatically sorted out or reworked. - Document test results
With one click, you can export measurement data and results to databases, Excel spreadsheets, or directly to SAP systems – fully traceable and secured in accordance with any documentation requirements. - Inspection of reconditioned components
In the MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) area, it is possible to check whether reconditioned blades still fall within the permissible or required tolerance limits.
What makes the VTS special?
Many measurement methods require expert knowledge. MAUL-THEET’s VTS automates this process – meaning:
- Automatic excitation and response measurement
The automatic modal hammer hits the blade with pinpoint accuracy, making it completely reproducible. The excitation is object-specific – completely without manual tuning. - Flexible integration into your processes
The test bench is adaptable: Whether with hydraulic bucket clamping from MAUL-THEET, integrated into your bucket clamping systems, or as a manual version – you choose what suits your testing process. - One-button operation
Simple user guidance, even for non-specialized operators – ideal for the production area. - Suitable for all blade sizes and types
The test bench is modular and can be adapted to your specific blade shape.
Practical application examples
Series testing in turbine blade production:
An energy technology OEM must test each blade produced for certain blade types for its natural frequencies. The VTS enables this fully automated process without the need for expert intervention. Defective components are detected immediately, and scrap or rework is identified early on.
Quality assurance in the MRO sector:
An aircraft engine maintenance organization inspects reworked blades. The VTS identifies components whose resonance behavior has changed due to repair measures before they are reinstalled without being inspected.
Development of new series:
A research and development team is testing various blade concepts. The VTS provides reliable data for FEM simulations and the associated model validation.
What economic benefit do I have as a customer?
- Cost savings through reduced inspection time
Assuming manual inspection of a bucket takes 5 minutes, while the VTS takes 30 seconds – with 10,000 buckets per year, you save approximately 750 labor hours. This corresponds to approximately 60,000€ annually (at 80€/h all-in personnel costs). - Preventing failures due to defective components
Resonance problems can cause engine failures or turbine damage. The consequences: warranty costs, reputational damage, or – in the worst case – safety risks. The VTS identifies such risks proactively. Avoiding a blade failure can quickly save several hundred thousand euros. - Fast return on investment through process integration
Connection to ERP and databases eliminates the need for time-consuming research in the event of a complaint. Complete traceability enables audit-proof documentation – without additional effort.
What are the costs of an error that the VTS would have prevented?
A simple fictitious calculation example:
- Damage caused by delivery of a faulty shovel: removal, repair and costs for retrieval & rework, installation: estimated at €150,000
- Machine downtime at the customer: estimated €80,000 production loss
- Loss of image & contractual penalty: estimated €50,000–100,000
Total costs: up to €330,000
A VTS avoids these risks – and often pays for itself in the first year.
The VTS – More than just a test stand
The MAUL-THEET Vibration test stand is not an isolated measuring station – it is a strategic tool for quality assurance, risk minimization, and efficiency improvement. It represents a clear competitive advantage, especially in safety-critical industries.
Are you building engines or turbines? Testing redesigned blades? Developing new blade types?
Then the VTS is not just an option – but a good decision for the future.
