The Importance of vibration control in life science structures that have MRI Scanners and X-rays

The Importance of vibration control in life science structures that have MRI Scanners and X-rays

SWJ Consulting has extensive experience in life science projects, including hospitals, laboratories and veterinary practices, where vibration control is essential for sensitive medical imaging equipment like MRI scanners and X-ray machines. Even minor vibrations can significantly impact the performance and accuracy of these imaging devices, leading to potential diagnostic errors and compromised patient care.

MRI machines are highly sensitive to vibrations. They rely on strong magnetic fields and precise imaging sequences, which can be disrupted by even the slightest vibrations. This can result in blurred images and inaccurate diagnoses. While X-ray machines are less sensitive to vibrations compared to MRIs, they still require a stable environment to ensure a clear and accurate image.

Before we start designing to minimise vibration we look to the sources – there could be external sources like local railways, nearby roads or other construction activity close by. All these external factors can cause vibrations through the ground. We also need to consider internal sources of vibration, like foot traffic, the building’s own operational activities and mechanical systems that may also generate vibrations. The impact of these vibrations depend on several factors, including the stiffness and mass of the floor, the span length and construction materials and the presence of any damping mechanisms to dissipate energy.

Commercial spaces often want open flexible spaces with fewer columns, using lighter materials, but these structures are more prone to vibrations. Lightweight materials reduce the floor’s ability to absorb vibrational energy, longer spans typically have lower stiffness, which makes them more susceptible to deflections and vibrations and dynamic forces like footsteps can have a more noticeable effect.

Addressing Floor Vibration

SWJ Consulting aims to minimise floor vibration through careful design and analysis. Using finite element models and dynamic simulations, we can predict vibration performance and adjust designs accordingly before construction begins.

Our digital construction technology enables us to model the structure and increase the building’s stiffness and mass by adding beams, thicker slabs, or heavier materials. This increases the floor’s natural frequency, reducing its susceptibility to common dynamic forces.. We will also incorporate damping systems, vibration-isolating materials, like rubber or isolator springs to help dissipate energy and reduce vibration amplitudes.
One efficient method of minimising vibration is by installing a floating floor.

Floating floors work by decoupling the finished floor from the structural substrate. This decoupling is achieved using materials such as rubber or spring isolators, which sit on the ground slab with the floating floor resting on them creating an air gap between the two layers.

The primary mechanisms by which floating floors reduce vibrations include mass and stiffness, the mass of the floating floor system, combined with the stiffness of the isolators, helps to absorb and dissipate vibrational energy. Heavier floors with appropriately designed isolators can effectively reduce the transmission of low-frequency vibrations.

Materials used in floating floors often possess inherent damping properties, which help to convert vibrational energy into heat, thereby reducing the size of vibrations. Rubber and neoprene are commonly used for their excellent damping characteristics.

The air gap created by the isolators acts as a buffer sone, preventing direct transmission of vibrations from the structural substrate to the finished floor. This gap is crucial in isolating impact noise and vibrations.Floating floors are a versatile and effective solution for minimising vibrations in various structural applications. By leveraging the principles of mass, stiffness, damping, and air gap isolation, these systems provide significant benefits in terms of comfort, structural integrity, and the protection of sensitive equipment.

By considering these factors and employing appropriate vibration control measures, SWJ Consulting ensures that buildings housing MRI scanners and X-ray machines provide a stable environment for accurate and reliable medical imaging.

If you are looking for advice for a life science project or to value engineer existing designs please give us a call on 01993 225085 or call mail@ swjconsulting.co.uk for a no obligation chat.