Vibration isolation theory and practice

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the different methods of isolating sensitive equipment from the effects of vibrations.Design/methodology/approachThe passive mechanisms of springs and dampers, air tables, and negative stiffness are explained, and practical examples given. Next is a description of various active systems in which actuators respond in real time to feedback from motion sensors. Finally, some unusual and interesting applications are explored.FindingsThe need for vibration isolation is growing, because of increasing vibrations and the requirement for higher spatial resolution. Ingenious mechanical design allows passive systems to work with frequencies of the order of 1 Hz. Modern accelerometers detect absolute motion and allow disconnection from the vibrations of the floor. Applications include the stabilisation of interferometric gravitational‐wave detectors.Originality/valueThe paper points out a range of solutions to the engineer combating problematic metrology environments.