Transverse Vibration Nondestructive Testing Using a Personal Computer

The objective of this research was to demonstrate the use of personal computer technology in transverse vibration nondestructive testing techniques. A laptop personal computer with expansion unit was coupled to a 100-lb (45.4-kg) load cell via an analog-to-digital converter. This system was used to collect data from simply-supported lumber specimens subjected to transverse vibrations. The data were used to compute dynamic modulus of elasticity for 30 specimens. Static modulus of elasticity was determined using a flatwise bending test. Dynamic modulus of elasticity was strongly correlated with static modulus of elasticity.