Overview

The rotational test simulates the response of a column to the action of wind upon it. This is achieved by causing the column to vibrate as it would do naturally when exposed to the forces exerted by wind.

The test cycle begins by measuring the ambient vibration whilst the column is at rest. The rotational device then gradually oscillates the column over a period of minutes until a test frequency is reached. This test frequency is maintained for a short period and then the rotational device decelerates until the column returns to rest and an ambient vibration is once more observed.

The test system captures and plots graphs of the response of the column during each of the above test cycles. The characteristic shapes of these graphs is used to interpret the structural integrity of the column.