Vertical Random Vibration Test Spectrum to Simulate Forklift Handling Environment

ABSTRACT Analyzing and measuring the vibration environment during distribution is fundamental to understanding and simulating the ability of a packaged-product system to avoid any damages from transportation hazards. During distribution, various vehicles, including forklifts, are used to perform shipping and handling tasks such as loading, unloading, and warehouse organizing processes. The aim of this paper was to provide an understanding of the average vibration levels that occur during handling so they can be used in pre-shipment testing. Various forklifts were observed, measured, and analyzed to obtain information about their average vibration levels while performing recommended tests. The measured acceleration-time data were analyzed in terms of power spectral densities (PSD) and presented with statistical data that provided an understanding of the variability of intensity. The PSD peaks were between approximately 2.5 and 5 Hz, and then they decreased to 120 Hz. The number of instances over 120 Hz was extremely low. The final recommended vibration test spectrum was determined to be in the frequency range of 1–120 Hz and the data were smoothed between six breakpoints.