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.
Data center seismic monitoring system with seismic sensors protecting critical server infrastructure.
Technical Note

Data Center Seismic Monitoring

Data center seismic monitoring helps protect critical infrastructure from earthquake-related risks. Data centers depend on stable equipment, reliable power, and continuous network access. Even moderate ground movement can affect sensitive systems, especially...

Nov 6, 20267 min read

Acoustic Emission Monitoring System Guide

QuakeLogic QL-SeismoSense Device

In short: An acoustic emission monitoring system detects the high-frequency stress waves released when material cracks, deforms or fatigues, revealing internal damage before it reaches the surface. QuakeLogic's QL-SeismoSense offers 4, 8 or 16 channels at 1.25 MS/s (18-bit) or 5 MS/s (16-bit), FPGA real-time processing, GPS timing under 1 µs for event localization, an IP68 housing rated -40 °C to +85 °C, and web-based remote access.

Critical infrastructure, industrial assets, and geotechnical structures face constant environmental and operational stress. Consequently, identifying internal material degradation before it becomes a catastrophic failure is a major engineering challenge. Therefore, implementing a proactive acoustic emission monitoring system is essential to detect deep-seated damage before it surfaces on the material.

Fortunately, the QuakeLogic QL-SeismoSense AE Monitoring System offers a highly advanced and proactive solution for modern industries. By utilizing continuous, real-time data acquisition, this advanced system captures the micro-seismic activity and structural changes that occur deep within materials. As a result, operators can now assess structural health with unprecedented precision, reliability, and technical confidence.

Why Choose This Acoustic Emission Monitoring System?

The QL-SeismoSense is a high-performance acoustic emission monitoring solution engineered for uninterrupted, long-term performance in demanding environments. At its core, the system utilizes high-sensitivity AE sensors to capture high-frequency stress waves caused by material deformation, cracking, or fatigue. For more comprehensive insights into technical architectures, you can also explore external structural engineering guidelines regarding non-destructive testing methods.

Furthermore, the hardware architecture features multi-channel data acquisition paired with high-speed FPGA-based signal processing. This powerful combination ensures that micro-seismic events are detected, filtered, and analyzed in real time without any data loss. To support distributed monitoring networks, the system also incorporates an integrated GPS synchronization module, delivering high-precision time alignment ($<1$ µs) for precise event localization across wide areas. To see how this fits into broader facility safety protocols, check out our internal structural safety overview.

Core System Configurations & Specs

QL-SeismoSense Applications

The QL-SeismoSense system is highly scalable and available in multiple channel configurations to match different project scales. Whether you are monitoring a localized industrial component or a massive suspension bridge, the hardware adapts to your requirements. All technical details can be verified in the official “QL-SeismoSense AE Monitoring System-Datasheet.pdf” document.

FeatureTechnical Specification
System Configurations4-Channel, 8-Channel, or 16-Channel options
Sampling Performance1.25 MS/s @ 18-bit, 5 MS/s @ 16-bit
Time Accuracy$<1$ µs with GPS Synchronization
Operating SystemEmbedded Linux with ARM-Based Processor
Protection ClassIP68 (Dust and waterproof)
Operating Temperature-40°C to +85°C
Power Supply & Draw9-28 V DC ($<10$ W for 8-Channel configuration)

Key Benefits of an Acoustic Emission Monitoring System

Key benefits of an advanced acoustic emission monitoring system software dashboard

Implementing the QL-SeismoSense acoustic emission monitoring system brings clear operational and financial advantages to infrastructure management.

  • Improved Monitoring Efficiency: The system provides automated, real-time event detection and continuous data acquisition, enabling rapid structural assessments.
  • Reduced Maintenance Costs: By enabling the early identification of material fatigue, structural defects, and critical changes, operators can intervene before costly failures occur.
  • Enhanced Operational Reliability: With synchronized multi-channel monitoring and precise event localization, data remains accurate and actionable.
  • Seamless Remote Access: Built-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi—along with an optional cellular communication module—allow secure remote configuration, alarm management, and real-time data visualization via a web interface.

Additionally, the system tracks and extracts crucial acoustic emission parameters. These include amplitude, duration, rise time, energy, counts, and advanced B-value & Beta analysis. This comprehensive data suite allows engineers to perform deep engineering analysis and export clean PDF reports directly from the system.

Versatile Industry Applications

Versatile industry applications for acoustic emission monitoring system deployment

Because of its rugged IP68 design and flexible web-based software, the QL-SeismoSense is deployed across a wide spectrum of industries:

  • Structural Health Monitoring: Continuous safety assessments for bridges, tunnels, and buildings.
  • Geotechnical & Mining Monitoring: Tracking micro-seismic activity, slope stability, and rockburst hazards.
  • Industrial Equipment Monitoring: Detecting early fatigue or structural degradation in high-value industrial machinery.
  • Seismic Research: Utilizing laboratory testing and field deployment data for advanced geophysical studies.

Why QuakeLogic

This project demonstrates QuakeLogic’s ability to deliver full-cycle engineering solutions that combine hardware, software, and AI into a unified system. From concept to commissioning, every component is designed for precision, reliability, and long-term performance.

Let’s build the future of your facility together. Contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom project needs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ACOUSTIC EMISSION MONITORING SYSTEM

Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • QL-SeismoSense is available in 4-, 8- and 16-channel configurations.
  • Sampling reaches 1.25 MS/s at 18-bit or 5 MS/s at 16-bit with FPGA-based real-time processing.
  • Integrated GPS synchronization aligns channels to under 1 µs for event localization across distributed networks.
  • IP68 housing, -40 °C to +85 °C operation, 9–28 V DC input, under 10 W for the 8-channel unit.
  • Extracted AE parameters: amplitude, duration, rise time, energy, counts, plus B-value and Beta analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an acoustic emission monitoring system detect?

An acoustic emission monitoring system detects the transient high-frequency stress waves that a material releases when it cracks, deforms or fatigues under load. Because these micro-seismic events originate inside the material, the system can flag internal degradation in bridges, tunnels, rock slopes or machinery before any damage is visible on the surface. High-sensitivity AE sensors feed multi-channel data acquisition and real-time processing so events are detected, filtered and analyzed as they occur.

How does GPS synchronization help locate acoustic emission events?

Locating an acoustic emission source depends on comparing the arrival times of the same stress wave at several sensors. The QL-SeismoSense includes an integrated GPS module that aligns all channels, and separate units in a distributed network, to better than 1 µs. That timing accuracy lets the software triangulate event positions reliably across a large structure such as a suspension bridge or a wide geotechnical site.

What sampling rate is needed for acoustic emission monitoring?

Acoustic emission signals are high-frequency stress waves, so the acquisition system must sample far faster than a seismic datalogger. The QL-SeismoSense samples at 1.25 MS/s with 18-bit resolution or 5 MS/s with 16-bit resolution, and uses FPGA-based signal processing so that events are detected and filtered in real time without data loss. Higher resolution favors small-amplitude events; higher rate favors waveform detail.

Which industries use acoustic emission monitoring?

Acoustic emission monitoring is used for structural health monitoring of bridges, tunnels and buildings; geotechnical and mining monitoring of micro-seismic activity, slope stability and rockburst hazards; industrial equipment monitoring to catch early fatigue in high-value machinery; and seismic research combining laboratory and field data. The QL-SeismoSense's IP68 rating, -40 °C to +85 °C range and web-based software allow it to be deployed across all of these environments.

What AE parameters does the QL-SeismoSense extract?

The QL-SeismoSense tracks the standard acoustic emission parameters for each detected event: amplitude, duration, rise time, energy and counts, and adds B-value and Beta analysis for trend interpretation. Engineers can review these through the web interface, manage alarms remotely over Ethernet, Wi-Fi or an optional cellular module, and export clean PDF reports directly from the system for documentation and further engineering analysis.

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.

Electromagnetic Shake Table: Inside QL-ATOM 25

QL-ATOM 25 desktop electromagnetic shake table with 50 kg payload for seismic simulation and modal testing

In short: The QL-ATOM 25 is a compact electromagnetic shake table that replaces hydraulic actuation with a digital closed-loop servo and electromagnetic actuator, giving ±125 mm stroke, DC to 30 Hz bandwidth, 1 g peak acceleration and a 50 kg payload. It runs on 110–240 VAC single-phase power, supports sine, sweep, random and earthquake-replay tests through EasyTest software, and needs no hydraulic maintenance.

An electromagnetic shake table is now a critical asset for modern structural dynamics and earthquake engineering laboratories. Traditionally, academic institutions and research facilities faced a massive challenge because large-scale simulator systems required extensive infrastructure, huge power demands, and high operational budgets. Fortunately, achieving precise, high-fidelity seismic simulations within a restricted laboratory space is now completely accessible.

To bridge this structural testing gap, QuakeLogic proudly introduces the compact QL-ATOM 25 Electromagnetic Shake Table System. This high-performance desktop laboratory solution delivers exceptional accuracy, absolute repeatability, and reliable dynamic testing for universities and engineering firms worldwide.

Electromagnetic Shake Table - QuakeLogic QL-ATOM 25 featured cover image for seismic simulation guide

Precision Engineering via Electromagnetic Shake Table Technology

At the absolute core of the QL-ATOM 25 is a digital closed-loop servo motion control system that works seamlessly with an advanced electromagnetic actuator. Unlike conventional hydraulic options that demand complex fluid maintenance and create constant leakage risks, this system ensures clean, silent, and entirely maintenance-free operations.

Furthermore, by utilizing precision linear guide rails and a high-resolution encoder for continuous position feedback, this dynamic platform guarantees unmatched positioning accuracy. Consequently, researchers can perform micro-level adjustments during sensitive experiments.

Key Technical Capabilities:

  • Generous Stroke Capacity: A total displacement range of $pm125text{ mm}$ allows for comprehensive dynamic movements.
  • Broad Operating Frequency: The system delivers exceptionally accurate motion profiles from DC up to $30text{ Hz}$.
  • High Acceleration Peak: It easily reaches up to $1text{ g}$ of peak acceleration while supporting a maximum payload capacity of $50text{ kg}$.
Electromagnetic Shake Table Testing Setup

Versatile Testing Modes and Software Capabilities

The QL-ATOM 25 electromagnetic shake table supports a comprehensive array of complex testing protocols. Operators manage every single simulation via the intuitive EasyTest Shake Table Control Software. Therefore, users can configure, execute, and monitor multiple specialized excitation modes with just a few clicks:

Electromagnetic Shake Table Control Software - Real-time seismic simulation data acquisition
  • Sine Excitation & Frequency Sweep: These options help identify natural frequencies, extract damping ratios, and validate structural mode shapes during structural dynamics and modal analysis.
  • Random Vibration Control: This profile effectively simulates real-world environmental ambient vibrations to evaluate material fatigue and long-term structural durability.
  • Earthquake Replay: The software replicates historical seismic events by using actual recorded acceleration data, which provides an indispensable tool for advanced earthquake engineering research.
  • User-Defined Motion Profiles: This capability grants research teams full creative control because they can upload custom displacement or acceleration waveforms effortlessly.

Integrated Data Acquisition and Enhanced Laboratory Safety

Data integrity and student safety remain critical priorities in any structural testing facility. For this reason, the QL-ATOM 25 includes a robust integrated data acquisition system that monitors displacement, velocity, acceleration, and frequency in real time. Because the software automates data logging, it generates professional, printable test reports instantly.

In addition, users can effortlessly export all experimental data into widely utilized formats, including CSV, TXT, and MATLAB-compatible files for deep post-test analytical evaluation. Consequently, you can review the complete structural dataset and comprehensive technical layout directly through the integrated system software dashboard.

Safety is maintained at the highest level through a multi-layered hardware and software protection suite. The structural testing platform includes an easily accessible emergency stop button, physical hardware limit switches, automated software motion limits, overcurrent protection, and automatic fault shutdown procedures. As a result, the machinery guarantees safe operation under all circumstances.

Empowering Engineering Education and Precision Calibration

Beyond advanced institutional research, the compact footprint and plug-and-play design make the QL-ATOM 25 perfect for university classrooms. It operates reliably on a standard 110-240 VAC single-phase power supply. Consequently, it allows civil engineering students to witness structural behavior, resonance, and seismic mitigation strategies firsthand.

Furthermore, due to its high precision, technicians can utilize the system as an official calibration bench for external accelerometers and delicate seismic instruments.

Why QuakeLogic

This project demonstrates QuakeLogic’s ability to deliver full-cycle engineering solutions that combine hardware, software, and AI into a unified system. From concept to commissioning, every component is designed for precision, reliability, and long-term performance.

Let’s build the future of your facility together. Contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom project needs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TDG-ELECTROMAGNETIC
SHAKE TABLE ATOM

Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • QL-ATOM 25 specifications: ±125 mm total displacement, DC to 30 Hz operating frequency, 1 g peak acceleration and 50 kg maximum payload.
  • An electromagnetic actuator with closed-loop servo control eliminates hydraulic fluid, leakage risk and routine maintenance while keeping operation silent.
  • EasyTest software runs sine excitation, frequency sweep, random vibration, earthquake replay from recorded accelerograms and user-defined motion profiles.
  • Integrated data acquisition logs displacement, velocity, acceleration and frequency and exports CSV, TXT and MATLAB-compatible files.
  • The table runs on standard 110–240 VAC single-phase power and doubles as a calibration bench for accelerometers and seismic instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specifications of the QL-ATOM 25 electromagnetic shake table?

The QL-ATOM 25 electromagnetic shake table provides a total displacement range of ±125 mm, an operating frequency from DC up to 30 Hz, peak acceleration up to 1 g and a maximum payload of 50 kg. It uses precision linear guide rails with a high-resolution encoder for position feedback, runs on 110–240 VAC single-phase power, and is controlled through EasyTest Shake Table Control Software.

How does an electromagnetic shake table differ from a hydraulic shake table?

An electromagnetic shake table drives the platform with an electromagnetic actuator under digital closed-loop servo control, so it needs no hydraulic power unit, fluid or seals. That makes it clean, silent and essentially maintenance-free, and suitable for classrooms and small labs. Hydraulic tables deliver far higher force and payload for large specimens, but require fluid maintenance, more power and more floor space.

Which test modes does the QL-ATOM 25 support?

Through EasyTest software the QL-ATOM 25 runs sine excitation and frequency sweeps for finding natural frequencies, damping ratios and mode shapes; random vibration for fatigue and durability evaluation; earthquake replay using recorded acceleration time histories; and user-defined displacement or acceleration waveforms uploaded by the operator. Test data is logged automatically and printable reports are generated after each run.

Can a desktop shake table be used for teaching structural dynamics?

Yes. A desktop electromagnetic shake table such as the QL-ATOM 25 lets civil engineering students observe resonance, mode shapes and seismic mitigation strategies on scale models in a classroom. Its compact footprint, plug-and-play setup and standard single-phase power mean no special lab infrastructure is needed, and the integrated data acquisition system records displacement, velocity and acceleration for student analysis.

What safety features protect users of the QL-ATOM 25?

The QL-ATOM 25 combines hardware and software protection: an accessible emergency stop button, physical hardware limit switches at the ends of travel, software motion limits, overcurrent protection and automatic fault shutdown. These layers stop the table if a test exceeds configured displacement, current or fault conditions, which matters in student labs where inexperienced operators run experiments.

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.

Shake Table Solutions for Advanced Seismic Testing

QuakeLogic large-scale biaxial and uniaxial shake tables for earthquake simulation testing

In short: QuakeLogic's shake table solutions span a 5 ton biaxial hydraulic table (2 m x 2 m, ±200 mm stroke, up to 50 Hz, ±1 g at full load), a 4.5 m x 1.5 m uniaxial servo-electric table (1,000 mm/s, 0.1 to 15 Hz), 1 to 3 ton servo-electromechanical tables, a 500 kg compact platform, and a 1.5 ton hydraulic table reaching 2.5 g, all with closed-loop PID control.

When you look at modern civil engineering, implementing reliable shake table solutions is absolutely non-negotiable. Replicating real-world earthquake motions requires precise, reliable, and high-performance testing platforms. Therefore, QuakeLogic stands at the forefront of this field by offering an advanced lineup of large-scale systems. These platforms are perfectly tailored to institutional research, public procurement, and advanced structural engineering. As a result, teams can easily execute complex dynamic testing in any environment.

Comprehensive Shake Table Solutions for Every Project

Different engineering projects naturally require diverse payload capacities. Because of this, QuakeLogic’s versatile portfolio guarantees a tailored structural testing platform for every single laboratory footprint.

High-Capacity Biaxial Shake Table Solutions

High-capacity hydraulic and servo-electric shake table solutions

For large-scale structural models requiring multi-axis high-energy simulations, the QL – Biaxial Hydraulic Shake Table (5-Ton Capacity) offers an expansive 2 m × 2 m steel platform. This system delivers a ±200 mm stroke and operates at frequencies up to 50 Hz. Consequently, it achieves an impressive ±1 g acceleration even under a full 5-ton payload condition. Furthermore, it replicates severe earthquake ground motions with closed-loop PID precision. For more information on customization, check out the QuakeLogic Products.

Uniaxial Servo-Electric Shake Table Solutions

When long specimens require precise linear dynamic response analysis, the QL – Uniaxial Servo-Electric Shake Table provides an elongated 4.5 m x 1.5 m aluminum testing surface. By utilizing energy-efficient servo-electric drive technology, this system achieves peak velocities of 1,000 mm/s. Additionally, it operates over a 0.1–15 Hz frequency range with a ±200 mm stroke.

Sustainable and Maintenance-Free Testing Layouts

Many modern research facilities prefer avoiding the complexities of hydraulic fluids. For this reason, QuakeLogic offers robust servo-electro-mechanical shake table solutions that lower power consumption significantly:

  • 3-Ton Systems: Features a 2 m x 2 m table size alongside an advanced IP-based control system for seamless remote operation.
  • 2-Ton & 1-Ton Models: These turn-key platforms easily replay recorded earthquake data via intuitive PC software.
  • 500 KG Platform: This compact 1500 mm x 1500 mm layout brings precise dynamic testing capabilities to limited laboratory spaces.

Meanwhile, if your project demands extreme acceleration profiles, the SHAKETABLE 1.5 TON HYDRAULIC delivers a massive 2.5 g acceleration. Thanks to its high-speed servo-hydraulic actuation reaching 1.2 m/s, it ensures unparalleled high-frequency replication accuracy. For global standards on earthquake testing methodologies, you can review the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute guidelines.

Turnkey Control and Data Integration

Turnkey control software and data acquisition for shake table solutions

An advanced testing platform is only as good as its control system. Our shake table solutions feature closed-loop PID control architectures operable via advanced PC software. For instance, the systems natively support replaying historically recorded earthquake time-histories. Naturally, they also generate predefined waveforms like sine, triangle, and square shapes.

To ensure data-driven analysis, these testing systems integrate seamlessly with external data acquisition hardware. This setup includes the TESTBOX 2010 Digitizer, QL-VIBRA Accelerometers, and linear displacement transducers (LVDTs).

Why QuakeLogic?

This project demonstrates QuakeLogic’s unique capability to deliver full-cycle engineering solutions that seamlessly combine advanced hardware, intuitive software, and cutting-edge AI into a unified system. From initial concept to final on-site commissioning, every component is rigorously designed for absolute precision, long-term reliability, and unmatched structural testing performance.

Let’s build the future of your facility together. Contact QuakeLogic today to discuss your custom project needs.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LARGE SCALE SHAKETABLES

Visit us at products.QuakeLogic.net

Key Takeaways

  • The 5 ton biaxial hydraulic table: 2 m x 2 m platform, ±200 mm stroke, 50 Hz bandwidth, ±1 g at full load.
  • The uniaxial servo-electric table offers a 4.5 m x 1.5 m surface, 1,000 mm/s peak velocity, ±200 mm stroke and 0.1 to 15 Hz range.
  • Servo-electromechanical 3 ton, 2 ton, 1 ton and 500 kg models avoid hydraulic fluid and cut power consumption.
  • The 1.5 ton hydraulic table reaches 2.5 g with servo-hydraulic actuation up to 1.2 m/s.
  • Controllers use closed-loop PID, replay recorded earthquakes, generate sine, triangle and square waves, and integrate with TESTBOX 2010 and QL-VIBRA sensors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a biaxial and a uniaxial shake table?

A uniaxial shake table moves the specimen along one horizontal axis, which suits long specimens and linear dynamic response studies; QuakeLogic's servo-electric uniaxial table has a 4.5 m x 1.5 m surface for this purpose. A biaxial shake table drives two horizontal axes at once, reproducing the multi-directional ground motion of real earthquakes for large structural models, as the 5 ton 2 m x 2 m hydraulic system does.

When should I choose a servo-electric shake table instead of a hydraulic one?

Choose servo-electric or servo-electromechanical shake tables when the facility wants to avoid hydraulic fluid, pumps and the associated maintenance, and when lower power consumption matters. They cover payloads from 500 kg to 3 tons in QuakeLogic's range. Choose hydraulic tables when the test demands extreme acceleration, such as the 1.5 ton hydraulic table's 2.5 g at 1.2 m/s, or very high energy multi-axis motion.

Can a shake table replay a real recorded earthquake?

Yes. QuakeLogic shake tables use closed-loop PID control and PC software that natively replays historically recorded earthquake time-histories, so a laboratory can subject a specimen to the same acceleration record measured during a real event. The same software also generates predefined sine, triangle and square waveforms for frequency sweeps and calibration runs.

What data acquisition hardware works with these shake tables?

The shake tables integrate with external data acquisition hardware, including the TESTBOX 2010 digitizer, QL-VIBRA accelerometers mounted on the specimen and table, and linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs) for direct displacement measurement. This lets engineers compare commanded and achieved motion and capture the dynamic response of the test structure synchronously.

What size shake table fits a limited laboratory space?

The 500 kg servo-electromechanical platform, with a 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm table, is QuakeLogic's compact option for limited laboratory floor space while still providing precise dynamic testing. The 1 ton and 2 ton turn-key models are the next step up, replaying recorded earthquake data through PC software without the infrastructure a hydraulic power unit requires.

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.