Software offers speedy durability testing

Analysis routines in LMS software determine the fatigue life of products, enabling Schaeffler engineers to develop designs that closely match expected operating load conditions

The Schaeffler Group has implemented LMS TecWare to accelerate its durability testing process, often completing cycles in a few days instead of the several weeks or months.

In addition, advanced analysis routines in the LMS software more precisely determine the fatigue life of products, enabling Schaeffler engineers to develop designs that closely match expected operating load conditions.

Based in Germany, Schaeffler manufacturers INA and FAG brands of high-quality bearings and other critical components for automotive, aerospace and other industries worldwide.

For over 50 years, Schaeffler components and systems have ensured that vehicles achieve higher technical precision, are safer and provide longer service life.

This is attained by constantly analysing existing solutions, forging new ideas, and developing products that are better than those of the past.

The company uses LMS software to streamline durability testing of its broad range of products, which is among the most comprehensive in the roller bearing industry and includes volume-produced catalogue parts as well as custom-designed specialty components.

LMS TecWare accelerates laboratory tests with advanced durability load data processing algorithms that import, correlate and analyse large amounts of test data from multiple sources to identify key fatigue load profiles encountered by the part during operation.

The software then determines compressed load time histories that deliver this same damage potential, defines an accelerated test routine based on these repetitive load signals and automates the workflow process from start to finish.

"Using LMS TecWare, we can duplicate years of key fatigue cycles typically in just a few days of testing", says Dr Rudinger Dupke, Durability and Load Data Analysis Group Manager at Schaeffler.

"Because operating loads are precisely identified by the system, our engineers can better develop parts with adequate fatigue life without being over-designed, allowing us to minimise product size, weight and cost".

Filip Pintelon, Vice President and General Manager of the LMS Test Division, commented, "We are very pleased with Schaeffler's choice for the LMS TecWare solution".

"With today's increasing pressure for higher quality and shorter time to market, the LMS TecWare solution allows engineers to optimise product durability while significantly compressing test cycles".

"We are confident that LMS TecWare will deliver a valuable contribution to the solid reputation of Schaeffler to bring innovative and reliable products to market".

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