Selecting Accelerometers for Mechanical Shock Measurements

After first clarifying what mechanical shock is and why we measure it, basic requirements are provided for all measurement systems that process transient signals. High-frequency and low-frequency dynamic models for a measuring accelerometer are presented and justified. These models are then used to investigate accelerometer responses to mechanical shock. The results enable "rules of thumb" to be developed for shock data assessment and proper accelerometer selection. Other helpful considerations for measuring mechanical shock are also provided.