DISTRIBUTION A. Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.
EN-SB-11-001, Page 1 of 14
Number: EN-SB-11-001
Date: 24 June 2011
Subject: Guidance on Correlating Finite Element Models to Measurements from
Structural Ground Tests
References:
1. MIL-STD-1530C, Aircraft Structural Integrity Program, 1 November 2005.
2. MIL-HDBK-516B, Airworthiness Certification Criteria, Department of Defense, 4
February 2010.
3. Joint Service Specification Guide 2006, Aircraft Structures, Department of Defense,
30 October 1998.
Purpose:
To provide guidance on correlating finite element models (FEMs) used to determine
internal loads, local stresses and strains, and deflections with instrumentation
measurements obtained during structural ground tests. For the purpose of this bulletin,
applicable structural ground tests include: static strength testing, proof testing, strain
surveys associated with fatigue testing and loads calibration testing.
Introduction:
This bulletin provides guidance and outlines procedures for correlating structural ground
test results with analytical predictions. The United States Air Force (USAF) approach to
aircraft structural certification is accomplished primarily by analysis validated by test,
and is referred to as “Certification Analyses” in MIL-STD-1530C (Reference 1).
Structural testing is primarily accomplished as a means to validate that analytical
predictions are reliable and accurate over the full range of structural loading, as well as
to provide demonstration of performance. The focus of this bulletin is on correlation of
instrumentation measurements obtained during structural ground testing (static
Structures Bulletin
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