This shaking is controlled by a method called vibration damping. It is widely used in various fields and processes, including factories, cars and buildings. In recent years, we have been trying to damp vibration in order to improve how machines work and get the best out of them. The same process can also lower vibration; decreasing the effects from mean time to failure safety factors.
In factories and industrial settings, vibration can be suppress using various methods. The most common and what seems the effective is the use of soft rubber foam (i.e. pieces under your keyboard keys). They are made to absorb the rocking and thus reduce it. Rubber and foam function as cushions on which the vibrations expend their energy. Softwood and hardwood are both tough materials that can stay in good shape for a long time, making them wonderful options as building supplies;
A tuned mass damper is another effective tool to reduce vibration. A unique device typically positioned high above on tall buildings or large structure. It is designed to assist in stopping shake generated by high winds or other forces external. This tuned mass damper achieves this by altering the motion of the building during a shake, making it move less and keep from toppling over.
For instance, if the vibrations are due to large machines then it is best to use a rubber or foam materials. The absorption of the vibrations is very good with such materials. Conversely, if the shaking is of a high frequency (dissimilar to that experienced by boats or cars), another type of material might provide you better results. Materials need to be able to withstand high temperature, chemicals, or sunlight as well since these all can degrade the materials and thus their performance.
Vibration damping offers numerous advantages in different sectors such as the Automotive, Aerospace and others#regionia# Vibration damping — In the automotive industry, vibration damping ensures a quieter and smoother ride. It implies passengers in vehicles as a whole can enjoy more comforts and are safe. In simple terms, another purpose of an oil pan gasket is to guarantee that the car lasts for as long as possible by reducing vibrations and wear & tear on its parts.
For instance, in the aerospace sector vibration damping is essential to ensure a satisfactory flight for passengers on takeoff and landing. The elimination of vibrations improves the safety, and comfort for passengers. In addition to this regulates noise and guards against structural fatigue caused by vibrations, which in turn helps to keep airframes lighter – thus saving fuel and reducing operational costs.
As technology has evolved, so too have new concepts and innovations for vibration damping. We now have a new and impressive concept called active vibration control. It is a system designed to reduce vibrations in buildings and machinery through sensors, actuators. One of the applications is a way to protect certain types of buildings from earthquakes or in an absorptive mechanism on cars which would reduce noise and vibration.