Vibration isolators for a main server 1

[Harold53]

We are planning to make an structural repair in order to improve the seismic resistance of an office building. It is a concrete framed 2-Stage building with a waffer type concrete floor slab.
In the main computer room there are three servers including an IBM AS400, and we are thinking of provide a vibration isolation to avoid dammage from impacts generated for the demolition works.
Does anybody know about a manufacturer who can supply standard isolators for this application?

 

[tomaspin]

Harold,

What you need here are high deflection, low stiffness rubber mountings.
I feel the most suitable type of mounting is a Naval shock mount, as these are used to protect shipboard electronics against extreme shock and vibration. Assuming you are in the USA, look at Barry Controls GB330 or 530, as these will protect against shocks and vibration in both the vertical and lateral planes. Other companies such as Trelleborg (Metalastik), Lord, Freudenberg will all supply similar mountings.
In order to get the best isolation, the mountings need to be used at or near their maximum rated static load capacity, which in practical terms means mounting the servers on an inertia base, which you then isolate from the floor with the mountings.
Inertia bases are usually supplied as an unfilled reinforced steel box, which is filled in situ with either sand or concrete. Just remenber to fit the mountings before filling!
Put everything on one base, and go for a total supported mass of about 200-250 kg (440-550 lb).
This might sound like an extreme solution, but it will fully protect the equipment during both the building work and any seismic events which might occur.

I hope this helps

Tom

 

[Harold53]

Thank you Tomaspin.
I've checked Barry Controls in the web and I found the isolators as good as you indicated.
I'm contacting them to work together 'till we make the choice and purchase.