To what degree is anti-vibration control important? Given that there’s an entire branch of engineering devoted to eliminating its ill effects, we feel it’s safe to say “extremely.” Vibration engineers work to design machines with the goal of eliminating excess movement. Custom-made machines they devise may include internal monitors in the form of sensors or daily self-generated health reports. Alerts or power cessation controls for out of calibration activity are common features for controlling excessive vibration as part of the machine’s design.
To test for full function, vibration engineers rely on specialized equipment such as ceramic piezoelectric sensors or accelerometers to measure both acoustics and vibration with the goal of preventing vibration damage not only to machines, but also to the structures within which machines operate, such as manufacturing plants. Data received from the specialized equipment assists in creating technical solutions to resolve noise pollution, machine error, and the structural effects of vibration. Working within the parameters of each project’s regulatory demands, budget and material prices, a vibration engineer must meet all requirements before and during installation, making adjustments as necessary throughout the life of the machine or machines in question.
Mechanical engineers also manage excess vibration. More generalist than their vibration specialist counterparts, mechanical engineers include design as part of their established job description, as well as troubleshoot machine inefficiency and poor operation.
Regardless of the design source, an array of after-market options may be deployed to manage excess vibration. Bracing for weak walls, or additional panels for adding density and stability to areas within the machine where metal is thinnest and most prone to erratic movement are just two examples of common external supplements meant to control vibration.
Such methods aren’t foolproof, however. It is when these options fail to produce lasting results that our products provide successful resolution of vibration issues. Our wedges, membrane air springs, leveling feet and mounts (among other tools) are available to provide relief when previous efforts break down. We also offer site surveys of current vibration levels to ensure compliance with statutory limits.
Vibration and mechanical engineers perform an important service within the field of machine design, development and operation. However, not every plant can afford to employ an on-site engineer, nor take the time to continually stop production when rapid output is key. In these common instances, the best method of vibration resolution is often the simplest: whether with vibration isolation pads, air springs, or wedges, leveling your machine at its base is the fastest, most economical and secure way to get back to work.
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