Vibration isolation is a key element in CSA Engineering's vibration suppression capabilities. Isolation is used to separate high vibration areas of a structure or system from areas where significant vibration is not desired. Vibration isolation is often a practical solution to vibration problems in the case where transmission paths for vibrational energy can be identified and physically modified. Vibration isolation is almost always more effective at higher frequencies.

We apply vibration isolation in two general situations. In the first, a quiet component is isolated from the rest of the system. In the second, a noisy vibration-producing component is isolated. The result in either case is the same: vibration transmission is modified to reduce the vibration where it is least desirable. Examples of the first kind include an instrument on a satellite or an inspection machine in a wafer fab. Examples of the second kind include isolation mounts for noisy machinery, pumps or motors.

CSA designs vibration isolation systems for applications of all types. We manufacture custom isolators and mounts subject to a variety of performance and environmental constraints. In-house software tools allow rapid design for multi-degree-of-freedom isolation. Detailed analysis is carried out when necessary to understand dynamics that are far more complex than the single-axis lumped mass model of vibration isolation contained in textbooks. Test capabilities allow verification of isolator component properties and measurement of effectiveness after installation.

Many of the isolation systems CSA designs and builds are subject to unusual requirements. These may include vacuum compatibility, thermal conductivity, or high performance at extremely low frequency. Passive vibration isolators are more common and are usually adequate to meet requirements. In cases where higher performance is required, CSA builds active vibration isolation systems. These active systems, distinguished by their need for power, are typically based on effective passive designs. The active elements extend the isolation performance to lower frequencies or reduce the vibration transmissibility significantly at specific frequencies. Active isolation and suspension systems take advantage of CSA's expertise in actuators, sensors, electronics, and digital control implementation.

SoftRide / ASVIS / ELITE / Satellite Camera / Thermally conductive isolators