In modern construction, ensuring the integrity of building structures while protecting valuable equipment from wear is essential. As an industry leader in noise and vibration isolation, Kinetics Group is at the forefront of providing advanced solutions with a focus on optimizing the performance and longevity of equipment and structural integrity. Vibration isolators are at the heart of this effort, playing a critical role in mitigating structural impact, preserving machinery, and maintaining a comfortable, noise-free environment. Here, we explore the mechanics of vibration isolators and how Kinetics Group’s tailored approach protects buildings and boosts HVAC equipment lifespan.
Protecting Structural Integrity
Vibration isolators reduce the transfer of energy from operating machinery to building structures, thus safeguarding architectural stability. When HVAC systems, chillers, pumps, or other heavy equipment operate within buildings, the vibrations they generate can cause significant strain on structural elements, potentially leading to cracks, material fatigue, and even long-term structural compromise. Vibration isolators absorb these forces by acting as a cushion, minimizing energy transmission and protecting against structural damage.
In this article, Kashif Ahmad, CEO at alpine industrialcon explains that “Vibration isolators function by decoupling the source of the vibration from the rest of the system. They absorb and dampen the energy generated by mechanical motions, preventing it from propagating through the structure”.
Therefore Vibration isolators are used to mitigate the transmission of noise and vibration from both suspended and floor-mounted mechanical equipment. For suspended applications, isolators effectively control noise and vibration from equipment like in-line fans, cabinet fans, and nearby piping and ductwork, preventing transmission to floors above (see Figure 1). For floor-mounted applications, isolators are employed to contain noise and vibration from equipment situated near noise-sensitive areas, reducing the impact on floors below (see Figure 2).
Minimizing HVAC Noise and Maintaining Comfort
In commercial buildings and industrial facilities, managing HVAC noise and vibrations is a key factor in ensuring comfort. Without adequate noise and vibration control, the vibrations from equipment can travel through floors and walls, creating an unpleasant environment for occupants. Kinetics Group designs vibration isolators specifically for HVAC systems to minimize the noise transfer between rooms and floors, helping facilities achieve acoustic comfort and maintain high indoor environmental quality (IEQ).
For example in the image below (see Figure 3) Kinetics supplied CIB inertia base frames are used together with FHS spring isolators to support and isolate vibrations produced by the fans from the structure of the building.
Figure 3: Image courtesy of Kinetics Noise Control Inc
Seismic Restraints for Added Security
For regions susceptible to seismic activity, Kinetics Group integrates vibration isolators with seismic restraints, further strengthening equipment stability. This dual functionality ensures that equipment and structures remain secure even in the event of earthquakes or other ground disturbances, protecting both the machinery and the building itself. Seismic restraints are critical in applications where any unexpected movement could pose safety risks or operational delays.
For example in Figure 4 below we can see the Kinetics Model FLSS Seismic Control Restrained Spring Vibration Isolators consisting of free-standing, large diameter, laterally stable steel springs assembled into welded steel housing assemblies. The housings are fabricated to limit vertical movement of the isolated equipment if equipment loads are reduced or if the equipment is subjected to large external forces such as high winds or seismic events.
Figure 4: image showing installation of Kinetics Model FLSS Seismic Control Restrained Spring Vibration Isolators.
Watch the full installation video of Kinetics Model FLSS Seismic Control Restrained Spring Vibration Isolators.
Extending Equipment Lifespan with Kinetics Group’s Vibration Isolators
Preventing Wear and Tear.
Vibration isolators are essential in reducing the wear and tear on equipment caused by continuous operation. Without isolation, vibrations can lead to premature component fatigue, impacting parts such as bearings, rotors, and fasteners. By isolating equipment from vibrational forces, Kinetics Group helps minimize this strain, extending critical machinery’s lifespan and ensuring steady performance over time.
Image showing ASHRAE TYPE 3 FDS Spring Floor Isolator and inertia base isolating a pump.
Enhancing Efficiency and Reliability
The stability provided by Kinetics Group’s vibration isolators enables machinery to function at optimal efficiency without the risks associated with excessive movement. This is particularly beneficial in industrial applications where precision and reliability are paramount. By reducing the impact of vibrations, the equipment can operate smoothly and deliver more consistent performance, translating into better overall efficiency.
Figure 5: Image showing the kinetics SFH ASHRAE type 2 hanger isolating a Propeller Fan and Ducted Rotating Equipment. (Image courtesy of Kinetics noise control)
Kinetics Group’s Approach to Vibration Isolator Design
Kinetics Group brings unmatched expertise in the design and manufacture of vibration isolators, backed by decades of experience in noise and vibration control. Each solution is engineered with precision to meet specific structural and operational demands, with a focus on:
Custom Design and Material Selection: Kinetics Group offers a variety of isolator models(Figure 6), including spring isolators, rubber mounts, and neoprene isolators, each tailored to specific applications. By selecting the most suitable materials and configurations, Kinetics ensures that each isolator provides the optimal balance between flexibility and durability.
Figure 6: The image shows Kinetics range of vibration and seismic isolators
To learn more about our various vibration isolators and their specific applications and specifications visit: https://kineticsgroup.ae/our-products/
Engineering for High-Impact Performance: Kinetics’ vibration isolators are designed to handle high-impact applications, including heavy-duty machinery and critical HVAC equipment. advanced engineering ensures the isolators perform well even under extreme loads, providing stable, reliable support for extended operational lifespans.
Why Choose Kinetics Group for Your Vibration Isolation Needs?
Kinetics Group is an industry leader due to its comprehensive approach to vibration isolation. Our vibration isolators are engineered to tackle the dual challenges of protecting structures and extending equipment lifespan, ensuring long-term value for clients. Whether it’s noise control, vibration isolation, or seismic safety, our solutions are crafted to meet the most demanding standards.
Our commitment to innovation and quality allows us to provide reliable and durable vibration control solutions that help clients save on maintenance costs, optimize equipment efficiency, and protect valuable assets. We invite facility managers, architects, and engineers to explore how Kinetics Group can support their projects with advanced vibration isolation solutions.
Take a look at some of the projects where our vibration isolators have been installed.
Here is a case study from one of our latest projects where Kinetics applied one of its vibration isolators to mitigate noise and vibration from a mechanical room of domestic pumps.
Visit Kinetics Group to learn more about our range of vibration isolators and noise control solutions.
For any inquiries, our team of experts is here to help you find the perfect solution for your project.
info@kineticsgroup.ae
sales@kineticsgroup.ae
📞 +97148857361
www.kineticsgroup.ae
References
1. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/vibration-isolators-mitigating-mechanical-vibrations-enhanced-ahmad-fmydf/.
2. https://kineticsnoise.com/flss/seismic-control-restrained-spring-isolator