Author: Emily Vargun

Engineering knowledge hub

Emily Vargun

Curated QuakeLogic articles, application notes, and technical explainers for engineering teams.

Earthquake EngineeringStructural Health MonitoringEarthquake Early WarningSeismic SensorsInfrasound MonitoringShake TablesData Acquisition SystemsInfrastructure Monitoring
Areas of expertiseSeismic monitoring, structural health monitoring, testing systems, data acquisition, and applied engineering education.

1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table Guide

QuakeLogic 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table performing earthquake simulation for structural testing

In short: A 1.5 ton hydraulic shake table is a servo-hydraulic earthquake simulator rated to carry a 1.5 ton payload while reaching 2.5 g acceleration. Hydraulic actuation gives it far more force than electromechanical tables, so it can test heavier structural specimens and equipment. QuakeLogic configures table dimensions, controller, software, motion limits and hydraulic infrastructure for each laboratory before procurement.

Earthquake engineering continues to evolve as researchers and engineers demand more accurate testing methods for structures, equipment, and critical infrastructure. A 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table provides the force, precision, and repeatability required for advanced laboratory testing while supporting realistic seismic motion profiles.

Designed for universities, research institutions, engineering laboratories, and product manufacturers, the QuakeLogic 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table enables reliable seismic simulation for structural dynamics studies, component qualification, and larger payload testing. By reproducing real earthquake conditions inside a controlled environment, laboratories can evaluate performance before deployment in the field.

QuakeLogic 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table performing earthquake simulation for structural testing

Why Choose a Hydraulic Shake Table?

Hydraulic shake tables deliver significantly greater force than many electromechanical systems, making them ideal for testing larger and heavier specimens. They also reproduce realistic earthquake motions with high precision, allowing engineers to analyze structural behavior under demanding seismic conditions.

The QuakeLogic hydraulic platform supports a wide range of laboratory applications, including:

  • Earthquake simulation
  • Structural dynamics research
  • Component qualification
  • Equipment validation
  • Academic instruction
  • Seismic engineering demonstrations
  • Prototype evaluation
  • Laboratory integration projects

Because testing conditions are repeatable, researchers can compare multiple design iterations while maintaining consistent experimental parameters.

Built for High-Performance Laboratory Testing

The 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table combines powerful hydraulic actuation with precise motion control to create realistic seismic events for engineering analysis.

Key specifications include:

SpecificationValue
Product TypeHydraulic Shake Table
Rated Capacity1.5 Ton
Maximum Acceleration2.5 g @ 1.5 Ton
ActuationHydraulic
Primary ApplicationEarthquake Simulation
Typical UsersUniversities, Research Centers, Engineering Laboratories
Motion ConfigurationCustomized according to project requirements
Controller & SoftwareConfigured during quotation
Table DimensionsApplication specific
Motion LimitsConfigured for laboratory requirements

Since every laboratory has unique testing objectives, QuakeLogic works closely with customers to determine the appropriate table dimensions, controller package, motion limits, and hydraulic infrastructure before procurement.

Large-scale hydraulic shake table testing structural components in a research laboratory

Applications Across Multiple Industries

Modern seismic testing extends far beyond civil engineering. Organizations across numerous industries rely on shake table systems to validate equipment before deployment.

Common applications include:

Structural Engineering

Researchers evaluate building components, bridge elements, and structural systems under simulated earthquake loading.

Equipment Qualification

Manufacturers verify that sensitive equipment can withstand seismic forces while maintaining operational performance.

University Research

Academic institutions use hydraulic shake tables for graduate research, laboratory education, and experimental earthquake engineering.

Infrastructure Development

Government agencies and engineering consultants conduct performance validation for critical infrastructure projects.

Product Development

Engineering teams test new products during development to improve durability, safety, and reliability.

Reliable and Repeatable Seismic Testing

Accurate testing depends on consistency. Every experiment must produce repeatable results so researchers can compare design improvements with confidence.

The QuakeLogic system supports repeatable laboratory workflows by combining:

  • Precision hydraulic actuation
  • Stable structural design
  • Professional control software
  • Flexible laboratory integration
  • Compatible sensors and instrumentation
  • Engineering documentation
  • Technical support throughout deployment

This integrated approach reduces uncertainty while increasing confidence in experimental results.

Researchers using a hydraulic shake table for earthquake engineering experiments

Designed Around Your Laboratory Requirements

No two laboratories have identical testing needs. Payload size, specimen dimensions, frequency range, motion profile, and available infrastructure all influence the final system configuration.

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, QuakeLogic helps customers determine the appropriate:

  • Motion configuration
  • Table dimensions
  • Controller package
  • Software platform
  • Hydraulic requirements
  • Facility integration
  • Instrumentation
  • Training
  • Documentation

This collaborative engineering process ensures the final solution aligns with project objectives while supporting long-term laboratory operations.

Supporting Research from Demonstration to Procurement

Many laboratories begin with feasibility studies before expanding into larger research programs. The QuakeLogic ecosystem supports this progression by integrating shake tables with sensors, fixtures, software, and engineering documentation.

As research programs grow, laboratories can build upon an existing testing platform rather than replacing it entirely. This scalable approach supports future expansion while protecting the original investment.

Hydraulic shake table control software monitoring seismic simulation tests

Conclusion

A 1.5 Ton Hydraulic Shake Table provides the power, precision, and flexibility required for demanding earthquake engineering applications. Whether the objective is structural dynamics research, equipment qualification, academic instruction, or seismic product validation, hydraulic testing enables engineers to evaluate performance under realistic earthquake conditions.

By combining robust hydraulic technology with configurable engineering solutions, QuakeLogic delivers testing systems that help researchers generate reliable, repeatable, and meaningful results for today’s most challenging seismic applications.

Why QuakeLogic

QuakeLogic delivers complete engineering solutions that integrate advanced hardware, intelligent software, and AI-driven technologies into a single, reliable platform. From initial concept and system design to installation, commissioning, and long-term support, every solution is engineered for precision, reliability, and lasting performance.

Whether you are developing a new research laboratory, expanding an existing testing facility, or planning a custom seismic testing project, our engineering team is ready to help you select the right solution for your application.

Let’s build the future of earthquake engineering together. Contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom laboratory and seismic testing requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR 1.5 TON HYDRAULIC SHAKE TABLE

Email us at sales@quakelogic.net | Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • Rated capacity is 1.5 tons with a maximum acceleration of 2.5 g at full payload.
  • Hydraulic actuation delivers significantly more force than electromechanical shake tables, suiting larger and heavier specimens.
  • Table dimensions, motion configuration, controller, software and motion limits are configured per laboratory during quotation.
  • Applications span structural dynamics research, component qualification, equipment validation, academic instruction and prototype evaluation.
  • Repeatable motion profiles let researchers compare design iterations under identical experimental parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum acceleration of a 1.5 ton hydraulic shake table?

QuakeLogic's 1.5 ton hydraulic shake table reaches 2.5 g maximum acceleration while carrying its full 1.5 ton rated payload. This is achieved with servo-hydraulic actuation and closed-loop motion control, which maintain waveform fidelity under heavy load. Acceleration at lighter payloads depends on the final actuator and table configuration selected during quotation.

Why choose a hydraulic shake table over an electromechanical one?

Hydraulic shake tables deliver significantly greater force than most electromechanical systems, so they can drive heavier and larger specimens through realistic earthquake motions at high acceleration. Electromechanical and servo-electric tables are quieter and need no hydraulic power unit, which makes them attractive for smaller payloads, but for 1.5 ton specimens at 2.5 g hydraulic actuation is the practical choice.

What can a 1.5 ton hydraulic shake table be used to test?

Typical uses include structural engineering research on building and bridge components, seismic qualification of equipment that must keep operating during shaking, graduate research and laboratory instruction at universities, performance validation for critical infrastructure, and durability testing of new products during development. Repeatable test conditions let teams compare multiple design iterations under the same motion profile.

What has to be decided before buying a 1.5 ton hydraulic shake table?

Before procurement, the laboratory and QuakeLogic agree on motion configuration (number of axes), table dimensions, controller package, software platform, motion limits such as stroke and frequency range, hydraulic power and facility integration requirements, instrumentation, training and documentation. Payload size, specimen dimensions and the expected motion profiles drive each of these choices.

Can a hydraulic shake table be expanded later?

Yes. QuakeLogic designs its shake tables as a scalable platform that integrates with sensors, fixtures, software and engineering documentation, so a laboratory that starts with feasibility studies can add instrumentation and capability as research programs grow rather than replacing the table. This protects the original investment while supporting future expansion.

Need help with a project? QuakeLogic designs and supplies seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound, and shake table systems. Browse QuakeLogic products or contact our engineering team with your site, structure, or test requirements.

Biaxial IronCore Shake Table

Biaxial IronCore Shake Table

In short: The Biaxial IronCore shake table reproduces earthquake records more faithfully than conventional tables because its two horizontal axes are driven by contactless electromagnetic linear motors, with no gearboxes, belts, ball screws or hydraulics to add backlash, friction or mechanical noise. It runs on 220 VAC, needs no hydraulic pumps or cooling water, and ships as a 75 x 75 cm turnkey package with software, sensors, DAQ and lifetime support.

For earthquake engineering and structural dynamics laboratories, the integrity of scientific research depends entirely on the accuracy of ground motion simulation. While basic shake tables can physically shake a test model, they often fail to capture the precise, high-fidelity characteristics of actual seismic waveforms. Therefore, this discrepancy is where the Biaxial IronCore shake table represents a paradigm shift for modern universities.

Rather than relying on mechanical transmission components, this research-grade seismic testing platform uses advanced electromagnetic linear-motor technology. Consequently, the system delivers a complete, turnkey laboratory solution designed to replicate complex earthquake records with unparalleled precision, repeatability, and near-zero mechanical noise.

How the IronCore System Eliminates Mechanical Limitations

Why Choose the Biaxial IronCore Shake Table Over Conventional Systems?

In conventional seismic simulators, a rotary motor’s rotation must be converted into linear force. Specifically, technicians must use mechanical parts like gearboxes, belts, ball screws, or hydraulic actuators to achieve this conversion. However, these physical interfaces act as inherent barriers to high-fidelity motion reproduction. They introduce a series of systemic errors:

  • Backlash and Friction: Mechanical play prevents instantaneous direction reversals. As a result, these components introduce lag and severe waveform distortion.
  • Mechanical Noise and Vibration: Bearings and gears generate unwanted high-frequency noise. Indeed, this noise often contaminates clean accelerometer data.
  • Degradation Over Time: Constant wear requires regular recalibration. Consequently, laboratories must budget for ongoing maintenance and costly physical adjustments.

In contrast, the direct-drive Biaxial IronCore shake table features a contactless electromagnetic drive principle. Because the moving platform operates without physical power-transmission parts, it eliminates mechanical wear, friction, and backlash completely. Thus, the system directly translates electrical commands into precise physical motion. Ultimately, this allows researchers to resolve even the most complex low-amplitude and high-frequency wave patterns without any signal distortion.

High Repeatability with the Biaxial IronCore Shake Table

For peer-reviewed, publishable research, structural-response studies, or soil liquefaction experiments, the critical metric is the exactness of the executed wave profile. Researchers must be confident that the table is reproducing the precise acceleration, velocity, phase, and frequency spectrum of the target earthquake record.

Therefore, the IronCore platform guarantees this traceable motion quality through:

  • Precise Closed-Loop Control: Advanced real-time feedback loops monitor and adjust the platform’s trajectory dynamically.
  • High Repeatability: You can run tests hundreds of times under identical, documented laboratory conditions.
  • Multi-Waveform Support: The controller guarantees flawless tracking of recorded earthquake histories, sine sweeps, random noise, and custom user-defined pulses.
  • Low Cross-Axis Interference: The engineering design minimizes the kinetic energy bleed between the two active horizontal axes.

Why Table Size is a Misleading Metric in Seismic Research

A common pitfall in laboratory procurement is evaluating shake tables solely by physical dimensions. A larger, locally manufactured, or basic fabricated table can easily be built, but without precision engineering, it remains a blunt instrument. If a large platform suffers from poor feedback loops, high cross-axis coupling, and structural resonance, the resulting data is scientifically invalid.

Therefore, true research capability is defined by a comprehensive suite of performance indicators, as outlined below:

Evaluation CriteriaConventional Shaking PlatformsQuakeLogic Biaxial IronCore
Drive TechnologyRotary motors, belts, ball screws, or hydraulicsDirect-drive electromagnetic linear motors
Waveform FidelityDistorted by backlash, friction, and lagContactless, high-accuracy tracking
Mechanical NoiseHigh noise floor from gears and bearingsUltra-low noise, ideal for clean sensor data
Maintenance & WearFrequent lubrication and part replacementZero-contact drive, virtually maintenance-free
Software & ControlFragmented systems, high licensing costsIntegrated turnkey suite with lifetime updates

True Biaxial Simulation for Realistic Structural Testing

True Biaxial Simulation for Realistic Structural Testing

Earthquakes do not shake structures along a single linear axis. To truly understand structural dynamics, soil-structure interaction, and modern mitigation technologies, multi-directional loading is essential. Because the Biaxial IronCore shake table drives two horizontal axes simultaneously, it provides an invaluable asset for critical academic and applied fields, including:

  • Soil liquefaction and slope-stability research.
  • Base-isolation systems and tuned mass damper (TMD) evaluations.
  • Structural health monitoring (SHM) and high-precision sensor validation.
  • Advanced graduate-level and peer-reviewed faculty research.

You can read more about how our other solutions integrate with these research areas on our QuakeLogic Solutions Page.

A Complete, Maintenance-Free Turnkey Research Package

QuakeLogic does not deliver a mere mechanical table; we deliver an entire, fully operational earthquake simulation laboratory. Because the system operates entirely on standard 220 VAC power, it does not require noisy hydraulic pumps, cooling water, or compressed air infrastructure. Consequently, installation and daily operations are incredibly easy for university laboratories.

To maximize your research budget, QuakeLogic offers an optimized 75 × 75 cm turnkey package that includes:

  • The Biaxial IronCore 75 × 75 cm shake table and advanced motion-control system.
  • QuakeLogic software for waveform reproduction and earthquake-record playback.
  • Comprehensive geotechnical and structural accessories: a liquefaction testing kit, landslide demonstration module, and structural models.
  • An array of integrated sensors: LVDTs, pore-water-pressure sensors, and accelerometers with a high-speed data-acquisition (DAQ) system.
  • Worldwide shipping, remote commissioning, and ongoing lifetime technical support with absolutely zero recurring software licensing fees.

Why QuakeLogic

This project demonstrates QuakeLogic’s ability to deliver full-cycle engineering solutions that combine state-of-the-art hardware, intuitive software, and AI-driven precision into a single, unified system. From initial concept to remote commissioning, every single component is designed to guarantee structural integrity, traceable repeatability, and long-term operational performance.

Let’s build the future of your research and educational facility together. Contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom laboratory and project requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR IRONCORE BI-AXIAL SHAKE TABLE

Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • Direct-drive electromagnetic linear motors remove gearboxes, belts, ball screws and hydraulics, eliminating backlash, friction and wear.
  • Closed-loop real-time control tracks recorded earthquakes, sine sweeps, random noise and custom pulses with low cross-axis interference.
  • The system runs on standard 220 VAC with no hydraulic pumps, cooling water or compressed air.
  • The 75 x 75 cm turnkey package includes software, liquefaction kit, landslide module, LVDTs, pore-pressure sensors, accelerometers and DAQ.
  • Table size alone is a misleading metric; waveform fidelity, noise floor and repeatability determine research validity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a linear-motor shake table and a conventional shake table?

A conventional shake table converts a rotary motor's rotation into linear motion through gearboxes, belts, ball screws or hydraulic actuators, and each mechanical interface adds backlash, friction, lag and high-frequency noise that distort the waveform. A linear-motor shake table such as the Biaxial IronCore uses a contactless electromagnetic drive, so electrical commands translate directly into platform motion with no transmission parts to wear, lubricate or recalibrate.

Why does a biaxial shake table matter for earthquake engineering research?

Real earthquakes shake structures in more than one horizontal direction at once. A biaxial shake table drives two horizontal axes simultaneously, which is required for realistic soil liquefaction and slope-stability tests, base-isolation and tuned-mass-damper evaluations, soil-structure interaction studies and validation of structural health monitoring sensors. Low cross-axis interference keeps the energy in each axis independent.

What infrastructure does the Biaxial IronCore shake table need to operate?

The Biaxial IronCore shake table runs entirely on standard 220 VAC power. Because it uses electromagnetic linear motors rather than hydraulic actuators, it needs no hydraulic power unit, cooling water or compressed air, so a university laboratory can install it without specialized plant and have it commissioned remotely with QuakeLogic's support.

What is included in the 75 x 75 cm Biaxial IronCore turnkey package?

The 75 x 75 cm turnkey package includes the Biaxial IronCore shake table and motion-control system, QuakeLogic software for waveform reproduction and earthquake-record playback, a liquefaction testing kit, a landslide demonstration module, structural models, LVDTs, pore-water-pressure sensors, accelerometers with a high-speed data-acquisition system, worldwide shipping, remote commissioning and lifetime technical support with no recurring software licensing fees.

Is a larger shake table always better for seismic research?

No. Physical size does not guarantee scientifically valid data. A large platform with poor feedback control, high cross-axis coupling or structural resonance produces distorted motion that cannot be trusted in peer-reviewed work. The decisive metrics are waveform fidelity, mechanical noise floor, repeatability across hundreds of runs and maintenance-free operation, all of which depend on the drive technology and controller rather than platform dimensions.

Need help with a project? QuakeLogic designs and supplies seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound, and shake table systems. Browse QuakeLogic products or contact our engineering team with your site, structure, or test requirements.

What Can Infrasound Detect?

Conceptual 3D illustration demonstrating what can infrasound detect including natural disasters and low frequency waves.

In short: Infrasound sensors detect low-frequency sound between 0.01 Hz and 20 Hz produced by volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, avalanches and landslides, and by industrial HVAC plants, wind turbines, heavy traffic and the shifting resonance of bridges and dams. These waves travel thousands of miles with little energy loss, so a 24-bit instrument such as the QuakeLogic AIR 2.0 records events far beyond the reach of ordinary microphones.

The world is full of sounds that human ears cannot perceive. While we typically hear acoustic frequencies between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz, a vast world of acoustic data exists below this threshold. This spectrum is known as infrasound. Specifically, infrasound consists of low-frequency sound waves ranging from 0.01 Hz up to 20 Hz. Because these waves travel massive distances without losing energy, tracking them unlocks critical insights into our environment. Therefore, understanding what infrasound can detect is essential for industries, researchers, and everyday homeowners who want to utilize this powerful data.

What Can Infrasound Detect Exactly?

Infrasound sensors pick up acoustic energy generated by massive natural events, industrial machinery, and atmospheric disturbances. Because low-frequency waves bypass normal acoustic barriers, they can reveal occurrences thousands of miles away. As a result, this technology serves as a vital tool across multiple sectors.

1. Natural Disasters and Environmental Phenomena

A powerful volcanic eruption generating low frequency acoustic energy tracked by infrasound monitors.

Nature is one of the largest producers of low-frequency sound waves. Consequently, infrasound monitors can accurately detect and track:

  • Volcanic Eruptions: Eruptions release massive bursts of infrasonic energy, allowing scientists to monitor remote volcanoes safely.
  • Earthquakes and Seismic Activity: Before and during seismic events, tectonic movements release low-frequency waves into the atmosphere.
  • Severe Weather: Tornadoes, hurricanes, and severe thunderstorms generate unique infrasonic signatures that aid in early warning systems.
  • Avalanches and Landslides: The sudden movement of massive snow or earth volumes can be detected long before they are visually confirmed.

2. Low-Frequency Noise Harassment and Industrial Sources

Wind turbines generating continuous low frequency noise and infrastructure vibrations in a residential area.

In urban and residential areas, human-made infrastructure generates constant, subtle vibrations. Consequently, many people experience unexplained sleep disruption or anxiety caused by “the hum.” Fortunately, advanced infrasound technology can easily identify:

  • Industrial Machinery: Large HVAC systems, cooling towers, and heavy manufacturing equipment.
  • Wind Turbines: Renewable energy farms produce continuous low-frequency waves that can disturb nearby residents.
  • Traffic and Infrastructure Noise: Heavy highway traffic, trains, and bridge vibrations.

3. Structural Health and Asset Monitoring

Moreover, engineers use infrasound to monitor structural integrity. Because structural failures begin with micro-fissures and changing resonance frequencies, sensors detect anomalies in bridges, dams, and skyscrapers before visible damage occurs.

Introducing QuakeLogic AIR 2.0: Professional-Grade Infrasound Detection

Historically, capturing these ultra-low frequencies required massive, overly complex, and expensive laboratory hardware. However, the QuakeLogic AIR 2.0 Infrasound Monitor changes the narrative completely by making professional-grade infrasound detection accessible to everyone.

The QuakeLogic AIR 2.0 is an affordable, powerful, and easy-to-use standalone monitoring system built for field measurement, structural monitoring, environmental observation, and personal safety.

Advanced Specifications for Uncompromising Precision

To deliver credible data for legal investigation, research instrumentation, or engineering, the AIR 2.0 boasts impressive technical components:

QuakeLogic AIR 2.0 Infrasound Monitor for professional low frequency sound detection and monitoring.
Hardware FeaturesAdvanced Technical Specifications
24-Bit DigitizerADC Resolution: 24-bit Delta-Sigma (Cirrus Logic CS5532)
High-Sensitivity SensorSensor Type: Differential Pressure Infrasound Sensor
Web GUI DashboardOperating System: Secure Linux BBshark 5.10.63+
Real-Time Data StreamingDigital Filters: Low-pass (0.01–24 Hz), High-pass (0.02–49 Hz)
Automated HeliplotsSampling Rate: 50 / 100 / 200 samples per second
Ultra-Compact DesignForm Factor: 100 × 100 × 107 mm | Weight: ~410 g | Power: 1.75 W

Key Benefits of Using QuakeLogic for Infrasound Detection

Modern Web-Based GUI (No Coding Required)

Unlike traditional instruments that require programming knowledge, the AIR 2.0 includes a completely redesigned, intuitive web dashboard. For instance, users can easily view live system status, inspect CPU temperatures, and read responsive real-time waveform updates directly in decibel-G (dBG) format.

Automated Data Visualizations

Automated 24 hour heliplot and spectrogram history displayed on the QuakeLogic real time web dashboard.

Analyzing long-term acoustic patterns is simplified with automated 24-hour Heliplot and Spectrogram generation. In addition, the system automatically archives a 7-day spectrogram history, displayed in clean 12-hour segments, allowing you to pinpoint the exact moment a low-frequency noise event occurs.

Seamless Software & Network Integration

The device features an integrated on-board data repository with flexible API connectivity. Furthermore, it supports standard MiniSEED real-time streaming, making it instantly compatible with global scientific platforms such as Earthworm, WinSDR, Swarm, and ObsPy. Deploying remote monitoring arrays is also straightforward thanks to built-in Wi-Fi and optional Ethernet connectivity.

Why Choose QuakeLogic?

This product perfectly demonstrates QuakeLogic’s unique ability to deliver full-cycle engineering solutions that seamlessly combine hardware, software, and AI into a unified system. From initial concept to final field commissioning, every single component is designed for absolute precision, long-term reliability, and unmatched field performance.

Whether you are an engineer protecting critical assets, a researcher tracking global atmospheric shifts, or a property owner gathering evidence against low-frequency noise harassment, we provide the tools you need.

Explore our full range of monitoring solutions or contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom project needs and secure your infrasound monitoring infrastructure.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR INFRASOUND

Email us at sales@quakelogic.net | Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • Infrasound spans 0.01–20 Hz, below the 20 Hz lower limit of human hearing, and travels thousands of miles with little energy loss.
  • Natural sources include volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, avalanches and landslides; man-made sources include HVAC, wind turbines and traffic.
  • Changing resonance frequencies and micro-fissures in bridges, dams and skyscrapers show up in infrasound before visible damage.
  • The AIR 2.0 uses a 24-bit Cirrus Logic CS5532 ADC, a differential pressure sensor and 50/100/200 sps sampling in a 410 g unit.
  • It streams MiniSEED to Earthworm, WinSDR, Swarm and ObsPy and auto-generates 24-hour heliplots and a 7-day spectrogram archive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What frequency range counts as infrasound?

Infrasound is sound below 20 Hz, the lower limit of human hearing; in practice monitors cover roughly 0.01 Hz to 20 Hz. Human hearing spans about 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, so infrasound is felt or detected by instruments rather than heard. Because low frequencies lose little energy over distance, infrasound from a volcano or storm can be recorded thousands of miles from the source.

Can infrasound detect earthquakes and volcanic eruptions?

Yes. Eruptions release large bursts of infrasonic energy that let scientists monitor remote volcanoes safely, and tectonic movement before and during earthquakes couples low-frequency pressure waves into the atmosphere. Avalanches and landslides are also detectable before they are visually confirmed. Infrasound therefore complements seismometers in natural hazard monitoring networks.

Can infrasound sensors identify the source of a low-frequency hum?

Infrasound monitors can identify common sources of "the hum", including large HVAC systems, cooling towers, heavy manufacturing equipment, wind turbines, highway traffic, trains and bridge vibration. A monitor such as the AIR 2.0 logs continuous waveforms, 24-hour heliplots and a 7-day spectrogram archive, so you can match the time and frequency of a disturbance to a candidate source.

What are the specifications of the QuakeLogic AIR 2.0 infrasound monitor?

The AIR 2.0 pairs a differential pressure infrasound sensor with a 24-bit Delta-Sigma Cirrus Logic CS5532 digitizer, sampling at 50, 100 or 200 samples per second with low-pass (0.01–24 Hz) and high-pass (0.02–49 Hz) digital filters. It runs Linux with a web GUI, streams MiniSEED, measures 100 × 100 × 107 mm, weighs about 410 g and draws 1.75 W.

How does infrasound help with structural health monitoring?

Structural failures begin with micro-fissures and shifts in a structure's resonance frequencies. Infrasound sensors placed on or near bridges, dams and skyscrapers pick up these low-frequency changes before visible damage appears, giving engineers early warning. Continuous recording also documents how a structure responds to wind, traffic and seismic loading over time.

Need help with a project? QuakeLogic designs and supplies seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound, and shake table systems. Browse QuakeLogic products or contact our engineering team with your site, structure, or test requirements.