Vibration

Published February 2000

Foot traffic vibration can be a serious problem in sensitive R&D environments. An above-grade floor acts somewhat like a trampoline: footfall impact sets the floor in motion, also setting into motion any floor-mounted equipment. Footfalls near the center of bays tend to cause the greatest vibration, with the resulting vibrations most severe at mid-bay and least severe near columns. Wherever possible, heavily-traveled areas should be confined to regions near column lines. Sensitive equipment should be placed near columns. Designers should avoid long straight corridors that invite rapid walking because fast-paced walking creates more severe footfall impacts. Structural solutions to footfall traffic are the most reliable.

In controlling vibration in sensitive R&D environments, designers should pay attention to the vibration transmission paths that can short-circuit machinery isolation systems or structural breaks. Transmission paths include piping, ducts and conduits that bridge the isolation systems. Transmission paths can be avoided by using flexible connectors and structurally isolating ducts, piping or conduits.