JIS D 1601 Vibration Test Methods for Automobile Parts

In the standard “JIS D 1601 Vibration test methods for automobile parts” developed by the Japanese Industrial Standards organization (JIS), vibration test methods for each part are described.

These tests are classified as follows:

• Resonance frequency determination test: This test method is designed to determine the resonance frequency of each part.
• Vibration function test: This test method is designed to check the function of each part under vibration conditions.
• Vibration endurance test: This test method is designed to determine the resistance of each part to vibration at a fixed frequency.
• Sweep vibration endurance test: This test method is designed to determine the resistance of each part to vibration whose frequency increases and decreases continuously at a constant rate.

The vibration conditions for vibration function test and vibration endurance test are classified as follows:

• The vibration conditions of the parts are classified as follows, depending on the type of car in which they are installed:
  • Type 1: Mainly for passenger car parts
  • Type 2: Mainly for bus parts
  • Type 3: Mainly for motor vehicle parts
  • Type 4: Mainly for motorcycle parts
• The vibration conditions of the parts are classified according to the installation position as follows:
  • Class A: For parts subject to relatively low vibration, to be mounted on the body or the springs of the suspension system.
  • Class B: For parts subject to relatively high vibration, to be mounted on the body or the springs of the suspension system.
  • Class C: For parts subject to relatively low vibration to be mounted on the engine structure.
  • Class D: For parts mounted under the springs of the suspension system or on the engine structure and subject to relatively high vibration.

The tests should be performed in the order of the resonant frequency detection test, vibration function test, and vibration endurance test or the sweeping vibration endurance test. However, the resonant frequency detection test and vibration function test may be performed simultaneously, or the resonant frequency detection test, vibration function test, and sweeping vibration endurance test may also be performed simultaneously.

Each part should, as a rule, be mounted on the vibration base for a period close to its actual service life.

As a rule, tests should be carried out under actual operating conditions.

Simple harmonic motion should be applied orthogonally to the assembled part in the vertical, transverse, and longitudinal directions, respectively. However, the relative harmonic content of the single harmonic motion should generally be 25 percent or less of the vibration acceleration.

The vibration acceleration caused by sine wave vibration and the relative harmonic content of simple harmonic motion should be calculated in accordance with the methods given in the standard.

The vibration acceleration of components should generally be determined at their actual service location. However, the measurement can also be made based on vibration.

The following test methods are defined in this standard:

• Resonance frequency determination test method: The resonance frequency of the part should be determined by continuously increasing and decreasing the frequency at a constant rate in the frequency range selected from the table titled “Frequency range section” according to the type of part to be tested.
• Vibration function test method: The vibration frequency should be within the same vibration range as shown in the table, and the function of the parts should be tested at the vibration acceleration level selected from the table. However, if deemed necessary, the vibration acceleration can be agreed upon by the parties involved in the delivery.
• Vibration resistance test method: The vibration resistance test of parts should be conducted according to the vehicle type, actual service location, and the 14 test stages listed in the table. Tests should be conducted by distinguishing between resonant and non-resonant conditions. Furthermore, the table will generally apply to the classification of vibration conditions. However, if deemed necessary, the vibration direction and test duration may be determined by agreement between the parties involved in the delivery.

In cases where resonance is present, the vibration resistance test should be performed by applying vertical vibration for 1 hour and transverse and longitudinal vibrations for 0,5 hours, respectively, at the resonant frequency of the part, with the amplitudes indicated in the figures. The tests specified in the table should then be performed. If two or more resonant frequencies exist, the highest resonant frequency should be used.

• Sweep Vibration Endurance Test Method: This test method is performed using a combination of the sections (frequency range) and stages (vibration acceleration) specified in the tables. However, the specific stage, section selection, vibration direction, and test duration are determined by agreement between the parties involved in the delivery.

In the automotive industry, the durability and performance of components under real-world conditions is crucial. Vibration is a critical factor affecting reliability. It is a common cause of fatigue, noise, and mechanical failures. To address this issue, the JIS D 1601 standard provides a standardized method for vibration testing in the automotive industry. This standard covers procedures for conducting vibration tests on automotive components and systems. The purpose of this standard is to simulate the vibration environment to which automotive components may be exposed during real-world operation on rough roads, highways, or under specific driving conditions.

This standard is widely used by Japanese automobile manufacturers and their suppliers and is frequently referenced worldwide when testing components for the Japanese market or vehicles developed using Japanese engineering standards.

This standard includes detailed specifications for:

• Vibration test methods: Describes both sinusoidal and random vibration test procedures.
• Test Conditions: Includes temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions that may affect test results.
• Mounting and installation: Provides guidelines on how test specimens should be mounted and oriented.
• Test profiles: Contains different test profiles depending on the application (e.g. body, engine, chassis).
• Evaluation criteria: Specifies how the performance and durability of the tested components will be evaluated (e.g. presence of cracks, loss of function or deformation).

The JIS D 1601 standard divides test profiles into various modes, generally based on the location or function of the component:

• Passenger compartment parts
• Engine compartment parts
• Lower body components
• Cargo compartment parts

Each category has specific vibration frequency ranges, acceleration levels and durations designed to realistically reflect conditions in that section of the vehicle.

Sinusoidal vibration testing involves scanning a component over a range of frequencies to determine resonant frequencies and fatigue points. Random vibration testing, on the other hand, uses a vibration profile that mimics the stochastic (random) nature of real road vibrations. This standard provides guidance on when to use each type, depending on the component's application and the expected service environment.

Compliance with the JIS D 1601 standard ensures that parts meet durability standards required by manufacturers and regulatory agencies and helps:

• Estimating product life
• Increasing reliability and safety
• Reducing warranty claims
• Ensuring compliance with Japanese automakers' requirements

As a result, the JIS D 1601 standard is a fundamental standard in automotive engineering, particularly for components subject to vibration. By establishing clear test protocols and environmental conditions, it plays a critical role in ensuring that automotive components perform reliably over time and under changing road conditions.

Our organization, which has been supporting businesses across all sectors for years through a wide range of testing, measurement, analysis, and evaluation activities, has a strong team of employees who closely follow global developments in science and technology and are constantly improving themselves. In this context, we also provide testing services in accordance with the "JIS D 1601 Vibration Test Methods for Automotive Parts" standard.