COMPANY: Adrian James Acoustics
PROJECT: Vibration Impact on Bugs
SPONSOR: CMS Danskin
The University of East Anglia proposed to relocate their metalwork facilities to a laboratory adjoining a biology research building which houses insect, amphibian and fish populations. The biologists were concerned that noise and vibration from the proposed metalwork machines might disturb these species and wanted to investigate the potential impact. Without the timescale or budget for detailing modelling of the vibration source and transmission through the building elements an innovative simplified calculation methodology was developed based on measurements with readily available test equipment. Using an empirical method to predict the impact of vibration from the proposed machines to the adjoining facilities, the consultants were able to show that with effective vibration isolation at mid and high frequency, the proposed machinery would generate levels substantially below those generated by the existing climate control and environmental systems in the biology research building. This information allowed the University to make an informed decision on the proposed work and provide reassurance to the concerned academics. An innovative measurement and prediction methodology gave the client the information they required to be able to proceed with a time-critical and strategically important project at short notice.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS:
This is a clever project delivered on a tight budget. It is unusual and the use of ISO 140 methodology and tapping machines are not normally seen on projects of this type. There was good collaboration on site with the University and the work was well carried out. As something a bit different it illustrates the range of work that acousticians can undertake and reminds us that it is not just humans who are affected by vibration. There were no testimonials from those most affected!
FURTHER INFORMATION:
The video for this entry is available here.