{"id":56576,"date":"2021-11-26T11:15:22","date_gmt":"2021-11-26T10:15:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.walraven.com\/?page_id=126794"},"modified":"2021-12-21T10:41:44","modified_gmt":"2021-12-21T09:41:44","slug":"the-basics-of-vibration","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.walraven.com\/sg\/the-basics-of-vibration\/","title":{"rendered":"The basics of vibration"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is vibration\u00a0and why do you want to avoid it?<\/h2>\n

As more building users are disturbed by the mechanical vibration and vibration-induced noise originating from mechanical equipment, the HVAC sector has become more attentive to the acoustic design of mechanical equipment and installations. But before we\u00a0investigate and share examples of\u00a0how vibration can be prevented, let\u2019s\u00a0take\u00a0a look\u00a0at\u00a0the definition and the\u00a0side effects\u00a0of vibration.<\/p>\n

What is vibration?<\/h2>\n

In simple words, vibration is a mechanical phenomenon where oscillations occur about an equilibrium point. In some cases, this can be desirable such as in the case of a motion of a guitar\u2019s string, but oftentimes, vibration is undesirable as it creates unwanted noise and discomfort. Typical examples of unwanted vibration include the vibrational motion of engines, electric motors, or other mechanical devices or equipment in operation.<\/p>\n

The sound effects of vibration<\/h2>\n

In the HVAC context, sounds are mostly generated as a result of vibration from a piece of equipment. Nevertheless, some types of vibration can also generate sound effects that are not detected by humans. But it\u2019s important to know that undetected sound effects can also affect the health and well-being of building users<\/i>. Therefore, the best way to reduce sound, both detectable and non-detectable, is to limit the vibration produced by mechanical equipment in\u00a0the first place.<\/p>\n

What are the most common sources of vibration in buildings?<\/h2>\n

HVAC equipment that is rigidly attached to a slab, wall, or ceiling can transmit vibration into the supporting structure and cause highly undesirable levels of structure-borne noise. This noise can travel far and can\u00a0even spread\u00a0throughout the building. Just like equipment, piping, conduits, and ductwork can act as transmitters of structure-borne noise if they are rigidly connected to vibrating equipment.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s not only the unwanted noise but there is more to it<\/h2>\n

Next to the unwanted noise, regular and recurring vibrations can cause other problems that can impact the equipment, the building, and its users. These issues include, for example:<\/p>\n