“Suitable for factory vibration” is a design intention, not a complete specification. An industrial computer enclosure may be attached to a quiet wall, a moving machine frame or transport equipment. Its response also depends on the installed boards, power modules, supports and fastening.
The useful RFQ starts with the actual installation. For an OEM industrial computer enclosure, distinguish the fabricated structure, the populated equipment and the validation program. A rigid-looking metal shell does not establish a shock or vibration rating.
Describe the assembled test article
Provide the installed mass distribution, not only the empty housing weight. Include internal modules, cables and any external accessories attached to the enclosure. Identify the mounting orientation and the interfaces to the host machine.
Where a mass dummy is used during development, define which characteristics it represents and which it does not. Matching total mass alone may not reproduce the locations, stiffness or attachment behavior of the final equipment.
| Input group | What the RFQ should state | Common ambiguity |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting | Bracket geometry, fasteners, support stiffness and orientation | Testing on a different attachment than the field installation |
| Population | Installed components, masses and attachment details | Using empty-shell results for a populated computer |
| Exposure | Test method, profile, axes, duration and operating state | Treating shock, sine vibration and random vibration as interchangeable |
| Acceptance | Mechanical and functional criteria, reporting and responsible party | Calling a dimensional inspection a qualification test |
Identify the relevant excitation
Shock, sinusoidal vibration and random vibration describe different types of exposure. Their test parameters and acceptance plans need explicit selection by the equipment program.
For example, IEC 60068-2-6 addresses sinusoidal vibration. Naming that standard alone still leaves the applicable severity and test configuration to be specified. Do not use a generic “tested to IEC” statement without identifying what was tested and under which conditions.
If the field environment is not yet defined, record that as an engineering input to resolve. It is better to quote a controlled metalwork prototype with a pending qualification plan than to assign an unsupported universal performance number.
Follow the loads through internal supports
Review how heavy components attach to the enclosure. A large base plate may be stiff while a small internal bracket remains the limiting interface. Include fastener engagement, local sheet deformation, clearance to adjacent parts and any retention against movement.
The design team can then evaluate reinforcement, changed attachment spacing or other modifications against the identified behavior. Adding thickness everywhere can increase weight without addressing a weak local connection.
Define post-test examination before testing begins
State what constitutes unacceptable permanent deformation, loosening, contact damage or loss of function. Identify which dimensions or interfaces are recorded before and after exposure. Functional operation belongs to the populated equipment’s test plan, not to a bare metal enclosure inspection.
Record the test article revision, installed bill of material, mounting setup and any deviations. Otherwise, a successful result can become difficult to apply when a bracket, fan or power module changes.
For repeat production, define which process and inspection controls preserve the qualified construction. A change to material, joining or attachment details may need review even if the exterior appearance remains the same.
Keep transport requirements separate
Shipping exposure can differ from operating exposure. A machine-mounted computer and the same unit in a crate do not necessarily have the same supports or restraints. Address packaging and temporary supports through a transport plan rather than assuming an operating qualification covers delivery.
The heavy-chassis restraint guide provides the corresponding purchasing checklist. With operating and transport conditions separated, suppliers can quote the correct metalwork and the OEM can request evidence for the actual risks.
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