ctmcmull
Geotechnical
- Apr 24, 2007
- 2
I recently purchased a new automatic rammer to do compaction testing. The thing works great - possibly too great. Now I'm causing vibrations in the office building, which have become a problem for our neighbors. The vibration manifests itself as noise on the third floor, which is the top floor (no noise on the second floor. Hmm.). I think this must be an energy reflection issue at the top of the wall. Short of moving the compactor to a new location (not practical), does anyone have some insight on my proposed solution:
ASTM and AASHTO both require a "rigid foundation," such as a 200-lb concrete block. This provides inertial resistance during compaction. I propose to mount the compactor and concrete block on a cart with large pneumatic wheels, which will reduce the stray vibrations that reach the concrete floor. I can meet the 200-lb block part, but I'm definitely in the gray area as far as the "rigid foundation" part goes. I know that field labs are often in van-trailers, and so are supported by tires. These installations can pass ASTM and AASHTO muster; does my idea sound like it would raise an inspector's eyebrows?
I've considered other ideas, such as saw-cutting the slab around the compactor, but I'd like to try a non-invasive option first.
ASTM and AASHTO both require a "rigid foundation," such as a 200-lb concrete block. This provides inertial resistance during compaction. I propose to mount the compactor and concrete block on a cart with large pneumatic wheels, which will reduce the stray vibrations that reach the concrete floor. I can meet the 200-lb block part, but I'm definitely in the gray area as far as the "rigid foundation" part goes. I know that field labs are often in van-trailers, and so are supported by tires. These installations can pass ASTM and AASHTO muster; does my idea sound like it would raise an inspector's eyebrows?
I've considered other ideas, such as saw-cutting the slab around the compactor, but I'd like to try a non-invasive option first.