Vibration isolation: protection against vibrations and structure-borne noise

Structure-borne noise occurs when mechanical vibrations travel through solid bodies, such as floors, walls or foundations. Vibrations can create disruptive noise and can also affect the structure of buildings and the operation of sensitive equipment. Special vibration isolation measures can be implemented to effectively reduce structure-borne noise. Vibration-isolating materials such as Sylomer and Sylodyn are used to provide precisely graded vibration decoupling. The right combination of material properties and system design prevents structure-borne noise from being transmitted to adjacent components. The end result is an optimal protection concept that safeguards both the building fabric and quality of life in the long term.

Sound spreads in two different ways: through solid materials (such as walls, floors or foundations) as structure-borne noise and through the air as airborne noise. Secondary airborne noise is particularly important. This occurs when vibrations in building components generate an audible sound and disruptive noise. While airborne noise is primarily reduced using structural measures, such as soundproofing, combating structure-borne noise requires specialised solutions like vibration isolation and the use of vibration-damping materials. A professional approach considers all types of noise to provide optimal protection for buildings, people and sensitive equipment.

In vibration engineering, there are two main approaches to vibration isolation: source isolation and receiver isolation. Both forms are suitable for preventing structure-borne noise transmission, but it is not always possible to implement source isolation.

• Source isolation (emission protection): To reduce the forces transmitted into the environment by a machine or other source, vibration isolation is applied directly at the source of disturbance.
• Receiver isolation (immission control): Machinery, equipment and buildings are protected against environmental vibrations.

Our glossary provides an explanation of the key terms relating to vibration protection and isolation.