BUILDING VIBRATION ISOLATION

A major challenge for the development of lands near subways or surface railways is overcoming ground-borne vibration, which can be transmitted through the structural system which can annoy occupants and over time cause structural damage.

One solution employed by HGC Engineering is the use of isolation pads in conjunction with a large sub-grade damping mass, effectively providing two footings, each isolated from the other with the system tuned to the anticipated frequency range impacting the building.

HGC Engineering uses finite element analysis techniques in conjunction with physical testing, where needed, in order to tune the design, and ensure that the vibration isolation efficiency is greatest where it is needed most.

Projects have included the design of vibration isolation for entire buildings near rail lines in Toronto and Chicago