MACHINING & MACHINERY VIBRATION ISOLATION
MASON UK
The benefits of inertia bases and bespoke engineering
What is the most effective anti-vibration technique for machinery ? In high precision manufacturing , getting vibration isolation right is especially important as even a relatively small amount of vibration can disrupt the working of sensitive equipment . Here , Adam Fox , director of vibration isolation specialist Mason UK , explains the benefits of inertia bases .
Inertia bases are primarily used to support mechanical equipment . They are generally steel frames which are filled with concrete and supported by spring mounts to provide a large stable mass on resilient elements with a low natural frequency to provide a high level of isolation .
Different types of bases are used depending on the application . Larger bases might be used for pumps for example , while smaller bespoke bases might be installed for sensitive scientific equipment .
GETTING THE ENGINEERING RIGHT
In many applications , vibration isolation is not simply a case of picking a particular product off the shelf . In many instances , the product needs to be specifically designed for the unique demands of that project . You also need expert engineers who can assist with installation and onsite support .
This is especially so in precision manufacturing , or in applications involving the use of sensitive equipment such as bluechip production , scientific laboratories or medical facilities . In these situations , a good level of vibration isolation is not enough . You often need above 98 % isolation efficiency from the disturbing to make sure sensitive equipment performs as it is designed to do .
We ’ ve been involved in a number of such projects . For example , we had to isolate a vertical boring machine to prevent its operation from interfering with precision manufacturing facilities that were located nearby . We designed the bases , which were supported by Mason SLF spring isolators , and handled the installation . On this occasion , we also provided rubber dampers under the slab as part of a bespoke solution .
Inertia bases are especially effective at isolating disturbances caused by pumps and to isolate sensitive manufacturing equipment from external vibration sources .
In another instance , we worked on a project where we needed to isolate sensitive ultrasonic equipment being used in pioneering cancer research . Vibration caused by nearby construction work was seriously impeding the use of this equipment , which operated at very high levels of precision . We had to design and install a steel base support by Mason MT Air Springs . Again , this was a bespoke design to fit the legs of the equipment precisely , as well as fitting within the existing raised access floor .
Inertia bases are especially effective at isolating disturbances caused by pumps and to isolate sensitive manufacturing equipment from external vibration sources . However , it is important that they are partnered with the right acoustic isolation products and in many cases , as we have seen , you need a solution that is bespoke . A good acoustic consultant can advise you on this , so make sure you get them involved in your project at the earliest possible stage .
Mason UK provides specialist isolation products for a wide range of applications , including mechanical and electrical systems and HVAC isolation .
To find out more visit www . mason-uk . co . uk
90 PECM Issue 53