Isolation for Specific Equipment

Note 12 Refrigeration Machines: Large centrifugal, screw,

and reciprocating refrigeration machines may generate very
high noise levels; special attention is required when such
equipment is installed in upper-story locations or near noisesensitive areas. If equipment is located near extremely
noise-sensitive areas, follow the recommendations of an
acoustical consultant.
Note 13 Compressors: The two basic reciprocating
compressors are duct structures. (1) single- and doublecylinder vertical, horizontal or L-head, which are usually air compressors; and (2) Y, W, and multihead or multicylinder air and refrigeration compressors. Single- and
double-cylinder compressors generate high vibratory
forces requiring large inertia bases (type C) and are
general y not suitable for upper-Story locations. If this
equipment must be installed in an upper-story location or
at-grade location near noise-sensitive areas, the expected
maximum unbalanced force data must be obtained from the
equipment manufacturer and a vibration specialist consulted
for design of the isolation system.
Note 14 Compressors: When using Y, W, and multihead
and multicylinder compressors, obtain the magnitude of unbalanced forces from the equipment manufacturer so the
need for an inertia base can be evaluated.
Note 15 Compressors: Base-mounted compressors
through 4 kW and horizontal tank-type air compressors
through 8 kW can be installed directly on spring isolators (type 3) with structural bases (type B) if required, and
compressors 101075 kW on spring isolators (type 3)
with inertia bases (type C) with a mass I to 2 limes the
compressor mass.
Note 16 Pumps: Concrete inertia bases (type C) are
preferred for all flexible-coupled pumps and are desirable for most close-coupled pumps, although steel bases
(type B) can be used. Close-coupled pumps should not be
installed directly on individual isolators (type A) because the
impeller usually overhangs the motor support base, causing
the rear mounting to be in tension. The primary requirements
for type C bases are strength and shape to accommodate
base elbow supports. Mass is not usually a factor, except
for pumps over 55 kW, where extra mass helps limit excess
movement due to starting torque and forces. Concrete bases
(type C) should be designed for a thickness of one-tenth the
longest dimension with minimum thickness as follows: (1) for
up to 20 kW, 150 mm; (2) for 30 to 55 kW, 200 mm; and (3)
for 75 kW and up, 300 mm.
Pumps over 55 kW and multistage pumps may exhibit excessive motion at start-up (heaving); supplemental restraining devices can be installed if necessary. Pumps over
90 kW may generate high starting forces; a vibration specialist should be consulted.
Note 17 Packaged Rooftop Air-Conditioning Equipment: This equipment is usually installed on low-mass
structures that are susceptible to sound and vibration
transmission problems. The noise problems are
compounded further by curb-mounted equipment, which requires large roof openings for supply and return air.

The table shows type D vibration isolator selections for

all spans up top 6 m, but extreme care must be taken
for equipment located on spans of over 6 m, especially
if construction is open web joists or thin, low-mass
slabs. The recommended procedure is to determine the
additional deflection caused by equipment in the roof.
If additional roof deflection is 6 mm or less, the isolator
should be selected for 10 times the additional roof
deflection. If additional roof deflection is over 6 mm,
supplemental roof stiffening should be installed to bring the
roof deflection down below 6 mm, or the unit should be relocated to a stiffer roof position.
For mechanical units capable of generating high noise levels, mount the unit on a platform above the roof deck to provide an air gap (buffer zone) and locate the unit away from
the associated roof penetration to allow acoustical treatment
of ducts before they enter the building.
Some rooftop equipment has compressors, fans, and
other equipment isolated internally. This isolation is
not always reliable because of internal short-circuiting,
inadequate static deflection, or panel resonances. It is
recommended that rooftop equipment over 135 kg be
isolated externally, as if internal isolation was not used.
Note 18 Cooling Towers: These are normally isolated with
restrained spring isolators (type 4) directly under the tower
or lower dunnage. High deflection isolators proposed for use
directly under the motor-fan assembly must be used with extreme caution 10 ensure stability and safety under all weather conditions. See Note 5.
Note 19 Fans and Air-Handling Equipment: Consider the
following in selecting isolation systems for fans and air-handling equipment:
1. Fans with wheel diameters of 560 mm and less and
all fans operating at speeds up to 300 rpm do not
generate large vibratory forces. For fans operating
under 300 rpm, select isolator deflection so the isolator
natural frequency is 40% or less than the fan speed. For
example, for a fan operating at 275 rpm, 0.4 x 275 = 110
rpm. Therefore, an isolator natural frequency of 110 rpm
or lower is required. This can be accomplished with a 75
mm deflection isolator (type 3).
2. Flexible duct connectors should be installed at the
intake and discharge of all fans and air-handling equipment to reduce vibration transmission 10 air
3. Inertia bases (type C) are recommended for all class 2
and 3 fans and air-handling equipment because extra
mass allows the use of stiffer springs, which limit
heaving movements.
4. Thrust restraints (type 5) that incorporate the same
deflection as isolators should be used for all fan heads,
all suspended fans, and all base-mounted and suspended air-handling equipment operating at 500 Pa or more
total static pressure. Restraint movement adjustment
must be made under normal operational static pressures.

KINETICS NOISE CONTROL, INC., is recognized

as the major producer of products and systems for
the control of noise and vibration. The Company
markets products under the trade name KINETICS.
KINETICS products and engineered systems have
been incorporated throughout major industrial and
commercial buildings in the United States, Canada,
Europe, Australia, and the Far East.

Engineering Capabilities
Celebrating our 50th year in 2008, Kinetics Noise Control has extensive experience in the design, manufacturing and application
of innovative products to control sound and vibration. Kinetics pioneered development of precompressed, molded fiberglass pad
isolators that would be incorporated into a dynamic new floor isolation system.
Kinetics Noise Control now produces the industrys largest selection of inspired products to address vibration and noise control,
room acoustics, and seismic restraint concerns for almost any application. Value is added with our experienced team of engineering and customer support personnel ready to work with you.

Kinetics Noise Controls national headquarters and

manufacturing facilities are located in Dublin, Ohio, in a
60,000 sq. ft. (5574 m) facility.

Kinetics Noise Control features extensive practical experience in both design and application. The experienced staff of over
twenty (20) technically trained individuals includes seven (7) licensed professional engineers, two (2) holding Masters degrees
and one (1) who has earned a Ph.D., spread across engineering and manufacturing centers in Ohio, USA, Ontario, Canada,
and Hong Kong, China. Our combined technical experience exceeds 400 years with over 250 years directly related to sound,
vibration control and seismic issues. Kinetics Noise Control employees hold PE licenses in 30 states and provinces.

The Company provides products, systems, and solutions

to everyday problems and for complex applications
requiring noise and vibration control analysis.
By using the Kinetics Selection Guide contained in this
bulletin, proper isolation can be specified by type and
deflection to obtain optimum effectiveness of the isolators. By specifying deflection rather than theoretical
isolation efficiency, performance can be assured and
can be readily verified in the field.

Select Projects
Air Canada, Winnipeg James Armstrong Richard
International Airport Manitoba, CA
Aliante Station - Las Vegas
Altus Air Force Base, Altus AFB, OK
ARIA Hotel and Casino at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Army Aviation Support Facility, Santa Fe, NM
Barrie Fire Station, Barrie, Ontario CA
Caledon OPP Station, Caledon (Toronto),
Ontario CA
Casino Niagara
City of North Las Vegas Water Reclamation
Facility, Las Vegas, NV
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Ford Plant (Water Treatment Facility),
Oakville, Ontario CA
Ft Carson Firing Range, Ft Carson, CO
Ft. Detrick- Chevron, Ft. Detrick, MD
Ft. Lewis BCT Complex, Ft. Lewis, WA
Grand Hyatt Macau at City of Dreams
Grand Junction Public Safety Building,
Grand Junction, CO
Hard Rock Hotel Macau at City of Dreams
Harmon Tower at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Hollywood Casino, Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Indian Springs Correctional Facility,
Indian Springs, NV
Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, KY
Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, VA
The M Resort Spa Casino Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas at CityCenter

Moody Air Force Base Commissary,
Moody AFB, GA
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
New Jersey Air National Guard Operation
and Training
P-767 MH-60S Hangar and Airfield
Improvements, Norfolk, VA
Pearlgate Recreational Multiplex,
City of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, (NS), CA
Peel Regional Police Station,
Peel (Toronto), Ontario CA
Seal Operations Facility P-471, Norfolk, VA
Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY
St. Josephs Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario CA
Toronto Police Station, Toronto, Ontario CA
United States Courthouse, Jefferson City, MO
USO Tier III, Golden, CO
VA Hospital Mental Health Outpatient,
Salisbury, NC
Vdara Hotel and Spa at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Venetian Hotel Phantom Theatre in Las Vegas
Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center,
Columbia, SC
Womens College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
Woodstock General Hospital, Woodstock,
Ontario CA
York Regional Police Headquarters, York,
Ontario CA

kineticsnoise.com/seismic/titan.html
[email protected]
1-800-959-1229

Manufacturing facilities in Ohio, USA; California, USA; and Ontario, Canada. Sales offices worldwide.
Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. is continually upgrading the quality of our products.
We reserve the right to make changes to this and all products without notice.

HVAC SELECTION GUIDE 11/14

Kinetics engineering and testing facilities are

available at all times to assure that each product is
tailored to meet project specifications and field
conditions. Its staff of professionals welcomes the
opportunity to assist in selecting and specifying the
companys products and systems.
Kinetics provides certified engineering drawings when
requested for all products to assure compliance with
project specifications.
Vibration and vibration-induced noise, major
sources of occupant complaint, have steadily increased
in todays modern buildings. The problems have been
compounded by lighter weight construction and by the
positioning of equipment in penthouses or intermediate
level mechanical rooms. Not only is the physical
vibration in the structure disturbing, but noise which is
regenerated by the structural movement may be heard
in other remote sections of the structure.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation
of HVAC Equipment

Effectiveness of vibration isolators in bringing about

vibration reduction is indicated by the transmissibility
of the system. A typical transmissibility curve is shown
for vibrating equipment supported on isolators. When
the isolated system is excited at its natural frequency,
the system will be in resonance, and exciting forces
will be amplified rather than reduced. It is desirable to
select isolators with a natural frequency as far below
the equipment operating speed as possible to achieve
the highest degree of vibration control.

The Theoretical Isolation Efficiency shown on the transmissibility

curve assumes the isolators are located on a rigid floor. This rigidity
seldom occurs in above-grade applications. In practice, considerable
building deflection can occur,
which may reduce the
effectiveness of the vibration
isolators. Vibration isolators
must be selected to compensate for the floor deflection.
Longer spans also allow the
structure to be more flexible,
permitting the building to be
more easily set into motion.
With the aid of the Kinetics
Selection Guide, building
spans, equipment operating
speeds, equipment horsepower, damping, and other
factors have been taken into
consideration.
Typical transmissibility curve
By specifying Isolator
for an isolated system
Deflection
rather
than
isolation efficiency, transmissibility, or other theoretical parameters,
the consulting engineer can compensate for floor deflection and
building resonances by selecting isolators which are satisfactory
to provide minimum vibration transmission and which have more
deflection than the supporting floor.
By stating that all isolators and equipment bases shall be of the same
manufacturer and shall be supplied to the mechanical contractor, the
consulting engineer has placed the responsibility on a single source
who will be concerned with the vibration transmission from all
mechanical equipment in the building, rather than only those which
they supply.
When the specifier permits equipment suppliers to provide
appropriate isolators, which are not manufactured under Kinetics
high standards, he does not assure a satisfactory job, since different
brands of isolators may be furnished and no one supplier carries the
full responsibility for a building free of vibration and noise as specified.
To apply the information from the Selection Guide, base type,
isolator type, and minimum deflection columns are added to the
equipment schedule, and the isolator specifications are incorporated
into the specifications for the project. Then, for each piece of
mechanical equipment, base type, isolator type, and minimum
deflection are entered, as tabulated in the Selection Guide.
The Kinetics Selection Guide is available in digital format so consulting
engineers can select vibration isolators with the aid of their computer.
Digital copies are available through Kinetics representatives, on the
Kinetics Noise Control website or by contacting Kinetics directly.

Vibration Isolation
Pump
Number

GPM

Type

P-1
P-2
P-3
P-4

3000
10
360
420

Split Case
Close Coupled
End Suction
End Suction

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type Type
in. (mm)
7
6
7
7

2
1
2
2

1.75 (44)
0.25 (6)
1.75 (44)
0.75 (19)

Vibration Isolation
Air Unit
Number
AH-1
AH-2
AH-3
AH-4

CFM (cmm)

Wheel
Diameter
in. (mm)

RM-1022 4500 (127)

RM-1095 6000 (170)
RM-3210 10800 (306)
RM-187
1650 (47)

18 (457)
20 (508)
36 (914)
24 (610)

Area

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type
Type
in. (mm)
5
5
7
7

2
2
2
2

0.75 (19)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)

Isolation for Specific Equipment

Note 12 Refrigeration Machines: Large centrifugal, screw,
and reciprocating refrigeration machines may generate very
high noise levels; special attention is required when such
equipment is installed in upper-story locations or near noisesensitive areas. If equipment is located near extremely
noise-sensitive areas, follow the recommendations of an
acoustical consultant.
Note 13 Compressors: The two basic reciprocating
compressors are duct structures. (1) single- and doublecylinder vertical, horizontal or L-head, which are usually air compressors; and (2) Y, W, and multihead or multicylinder air and refrigeration compressors. Single- and
double-cylinder compressors generate high vibratory
forces requiring large inertia bases (type C) and are
general y not suitable for upper-Story locations. If this
equipment must be installed in an upper-story location or
at-grade location near noise-sensitive areas, the expected
maximum unbalanced force data must be obtained from the
equipment manufacturer and a vibration specialist consulted
for design of the isolation system.
Note 14 Compressors: When using Y, W, and multihead
and multicylinder compressors, obtain the magnitude of unbalanced forces from the equipment manufacturer so the
need for an inertia base can be evaluated.
Note 15 Compressors: Base-mounted compressors
through 4 kW and horizontal tank-type air compressors
through 8 kW can be installed directly on spring isolators (type 3) with structural bases (type B) if required, and
compressors 101075 kW on spring isolators (type 3)
with inertia bases (type C) with a mass I to 2 limes the
compressor mass.
Note 16 Pumps: Concrete inertia bases (type C) are
preferred for all flexible-coupled pumps and are desirable for most close-coupled pumps, although steel bases
(type B) can be used. Close-coupled pumps should not be
installed directly on individual isolators (type A) because the
impeller usually overhangs the motor support base, causing
the rear mounting to be in tension. The primary requirements
for type C bases are strength and shape to accommodate
base elbow supports. Mass is not usually a factor, except
for pumps over 55 kW, where extra mass helps limit excess
movement due to starting torque and forces. Concrete bases
(type C) should be designed for a thickness of one-tenth the
longest dimension with minimum thickness as follows: (1) for
up to 20 kW, 150 mm; (2) for 30 to 55 kW, 200 mm; and (3)
for 75 kW and up, 300 mm.
Pumps over 55 kW and multistage pumps may exhibit excessive motion at start-up (heaving); supplemental restraining devices can be installed if necessary. Pumps over
90 kW may generate high starting forces; a vibration specialist should be consulted.
Note 17 Packaged Rooftop Air-Conditioning Equipment: This equipment is usually installed on low-mass
structures that are susceptible to sound and vibration
transmission problems. The noise problems are
compounded further by curb-mounted equipment, which requires large roof openings for supply and return air.

The table shows type D vibration isolator selections for

all spans up top 6 m, but extreme care must be taken
for equipment located on spans of over 6 m, especially
if construction is open web joists or thin, low-mass
slabs. The recommended procedure is to determine the
additional deflection caused by equipment in the roof.
If additional roof deflection is 6 mm or less, the isolator
should be selected for 10 times the additional roof
deflection. If additional roof deflection is over 6 mm,
supplemental roof stiffening should be installed to bring the
roof deflection down below 6 mm, or the unit should be relocated to a stiffer roof position.
For mechanical units capable of generating high noise levels, mount the unit on a platform above the roof deck to provide an air gap (buffer zone) and locate the unit away from
the associated roof penetration to allow acoustical treatment
of ducts before they enter the building.
Some rooftop equipment has compressors, fans, and
other equipment isolated internally. This isolation is
not always reliable because of internal short-circuiting,
inadequate static deflection, or panel resonances. It is
recommended that rooftop equipment over 135 kg be
isolated externally, as if internal isolation was not used.
Note 18 Cooling Towers: These are normally isolated with
restrained spring isolators (type 4) directly under the tower
or lower dunnage. High deflection isolators proposed for use
directly under the motor-fan assembly must be used with extreme caution 10 ensure stability and safety under all weather conditions. See Note 5.
Note 19 Fans and Air-Handling Equipment: Consider the
following in selecting isolation systems for fans and air-handling equipment:
1. Fans with wheel diameters of 560 mm and less and
all fans operating at speeds up to 300 rpm do not
generate large vibratory forces. For fans operating
under 300 rpm, select isolator deflection so the isolator
natural frequency is 40% or less than the fan speed. For
example, for a fan operating at 275 rpm, 0.4 x 275 = 110
rpm. Therefore, an isolator natural frequency of 110 rpm
or lower is required. This can be accomplished with a 75
mm deflection isolator (type 3).
2. Flexible duct connectors should be installed at the
intake and discharge of all fans and air-handling equipment to reduce vibration transmission 10 air
3. Inertia bases (type C) are recommended for all class 2
and 3 fans and air-handling equipment because extra
mass allows the use of stiffer springs, which limit
heaving movements.
4. Thrust restraints (type 5) that incorporate the same
deflection as isolators should be used for all fan heads,
all suspended fans, and all base-mounted and suspended air-handling equipment operating at 500 Pa or more
total static pressure. Restraint movement adjustment
must be made under normal operational static pressures.

KINETICS NOISE CONTROL, INC., is recognized

as the major producer of products and systems for
the control of noise and vibration. The Company
markets products under the trade name KINETICS.
KINETICS products and engineered systems have
been incorporated throughout major industrial and
commercial buildings in the United States, Canada,
Europe, Australia, and the Far East.

Engineering Capabilities
Celebrating our 50th year in 2008, Kinetics Noise Control has extensive experience in the design, manufacturing and application
of innovative products to control sound and vibration. Kinetics pioneered development of precompressed, molded fiberglass pad
isolators that would be incorporated into a dynamic new floor isolation system.
Kinetics Noise Control now produces the industrys largest selection of inspired products to address vibration and noise control,
room acoustics, and seismic restraint concerns for almost any application. Value is added with our experienced team of engineering and customer support personnel ready to work with you.

Kinetics Noise Controls national headquarters and

manufacturing facilities are located in Dublin, Ohio, in a
60,000 sq. ft. (5574 m) facility.

Kinetics Noise Control features extensive practical experience in both design and application. The experienced staff of over
twenty (20) technically trained individuals includes seven (7) licensed professional engineers, two (2) holding Masters degrees
and one (1) who has earned a Ph.D., spread across engineering and manufacturing centers in Ohio, USA, Ontario, Canada,
and Hong Kong, China. Our combined technical experience exceeds 400 years with over 250 years directly related to sound,
vibration control and seismic issues. Kinetics Noise Control employees hold PE licenses in 30 states and provinces.

The Company provides products, systems, and solutions

to everyday problems and for complex applications
requiring noise and vibration control analysis.
By using the Kinetics Selection Guide contained in this
bulletin, proper isolation can be specified by type and
deflection to obtain optimum effectiveness of the isolators. By specifying deflection rather than theoretical
isolation efficiency, performance can be assured and
can be readily verified in the field.

Select Projects
Air Canada, Winnipeg James Armstrong Richard
International Airport Manitoba, CA
Aliante Station - Las Vegas
Altus Air Force Base, Altus AFB, OK
ARIA Hotel and Casino at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Army Aviation Support Facility, Santa Fe, NM
Barrie Fire Station, Barrie, Ontario CA
Caledon OPP Station, Caledon (Toronto),
Ontario CA
Casino Niagara
City of North Las Vegas Water Reclamation
Facility, Las Vegas, NV
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Ford Plant (Water Treatment Facility),
Oakville, Ontario CA
Ft Carson Firing Range, Ft Carson, CO
Ft. Detrick- Chevron, Ft. Detrick, MD
Ft. Lewis BCT Complex, Ft. Lewis, WA
Grand Hyatt Macau at City of Dreams
Grand Junction Public Safety Building,
Grand Junction, CO
Hard Rock Hotel Macau at City of Dreams
Harmon Tower at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Hollywood Casino, Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Indian Springs Correctional Facility,
Indian Springs, NV
Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, KY
Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, VA
The M Resort Spa Casino Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas at CityCenter

Moody Air Force Base Commissary,
Moody AFB, GA
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
New Jersey Air National Guard Operation
and Training
P-767 MH-60S Hangar and Airfield
Improvements, Norfolk, VA
Pearlgate Recreational Multiplex,
City of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, (NS), CA
Peel Regional Police Station,
Peel (Toronto), Ontario CA
Seal Operations Facility P-471, Norfolk, VA
Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY
St. Josephs Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario CA
Toronto Police Station, Toronto, Ontario CA
United States Courthouse, Jefferson City, MO
USO Tier III, Golden, CO
VA Hospital Mental Health Outpatient,
Salisbury, NC
Vdara Hotel and Spa at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Venetian Hotel Phantom Theatre in Las Vegas
Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center,
Columbia, SC
Womens College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
Woodstock General Hospital, Woodstock,
Ontario CA
York Regional Police Headquarters, York,
Ontario CA

kineticsnoise.com/seismic/titan.html
[email protected]
1-800-959-1229

Manufacturing facilities in Ohio, USA; California, USA; and Ontario, Canada. Sales offices worldwide.
Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. is continually upgrading the quality of our products.
We reserve the right to make changes to this and all products without notice.

HVAC SELECTION GUIDE 11/14

Kinetics engineering and testing facilities are

available at all times to assure that each product is
tailored to meet project specifications and field
conditions. Its staff of professionals welcomes the
opportunity to assist in selecting and specifying the
companys products and systems.
Kinetics provides certified engineering drawings when
requested for all products to assure compliance with
project specifications.
Vibration and vibration-induced noise, major
sources of occupant complaint, have steadily increased
in todays modern buildings. The problems have been
compounded by lighter weight construction and by the
positioning of equipment in penthouses or intermediate
level mechanical rooms. Not only is the physical
vibration in the structure disturbing, but noise which is
regenerated by the structural movement may be heard
in other remote sections of the structure.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation
of HVAC Equipment

Effectiveness of vibration isolators in bringing about

vibration reduction is indicated by the transmissibility
of the system. A typical transmissibility curve is shown
for vibrating equipment supported on isolators. When
the isolated system is excited at its natural frequency,
the system will be in resonance, and exciting forces
will be amplified rather than reduced. It is desirable to
select isolators with a natural frequency as far below
the equipment operating speed as possible to achieve
the highest degree of vibration control.

The Theoretical Isolation Efficiency shown on the transmissibility

curve assumes the isolators are located on a rigid floor. This rigidity
seldom occurs in above-grade applications. In practice, considerable
building deflection can occur,
which may reduce the
effectiveness of the vibration
isolators. Vibration isolators
must be selected to compensate for the floor deflection.
Longer spans also allow the
structure to be more flexible,
permitting the building to be
more easily set into motion.
With the aid of the Kinetics
Selection Guide, building
spans, equipment operating
speeds, equipment horsepower, damping, and other
factors have been taken into
consideration.
Typical transmissibility curve
By specifying Isolator
for an isolated system
Deflection
rather
than
isolation efficiency, transmissibility, or other theoretical parameters,
the consulting engineer can compensate for floor deflection and
building resonances by selecting isolators which are satisfactory
to provide minimum vibration transmission and which have more
deflection than the supporting floor.
By stating that all isolators and equipment bases shall be of the same
manufacturer and shall be supplied to the mechanical contractor, the
consulting engineer has placed the responsibility on a single source
who will be concerned with the vibration transmission from all
mechanical equipment in the building, rather than only those which
they supply.
When the specifier permits equipment suppliers to provide
appropriate isolators, which are not manufactured under Kinetics
high standards, he does not assure a satisfactory job, since different
brands of isolators may be furnished and no one supplier carries the
full responsibility for a building free of vibration and noise as specified.
To apply the information from the Selection Guide, base type,
isolator type, and minimum deflection columns are added to the
equipment schedule, and the isolator specifications are incorporated
into the specifications for the project. Then, for each piece of
mechanical equipment, base type, isolator type, and minimum
deflection are entered, as tabulated in the Selection Guide.
The Kinetics Selection Guide is available in digital format so consulting
engineers can select vibration isolators with the aid of their computer.
Digital copies are available through Kinetics representatives, on the
Kinetics Noise Control website or by contacting Kinetics directly.

Vibration Isolation
Pump
Number

GPM

Type

P-1
P-2
P-3
P-4

3000
10
360
420

Split Case
Close Coupled
End Suction
End Suction

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type Type
in. (mm)
7
6
7
7

2
1
2
2

1.75 (44)
0.25 (6)
1.75 (44)
0.75 (19)

Vibration Isolation
Air Unit
Number
AH-1
AH-2
AH-3
AH-4

CFM (cmm)

Wheel
Diameter
in. (mm)

RM-1022 4500 (127)

RM-1095 6000 (170)
RM-3210 10800 (306)
RM-187
1650 (47)

18 (457)
20 (508)
36 (914)
24 (610)

Area

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type
Type
in. (mm)
5
5
7
7

2
2
2
2

0.75 (19)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)

Specifications
The isolator or base selected for a particular application
depends on the required deflection, life, cost, and compatibility with associated structures and shall be manufactured by Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. Dublin, Ohio, as
follows:
Isolator Types 1 and 2: Rubber isolators are available in pad (type I) and molded (type 2) configurations. Pads are used in single or multiple layers. Molded isolators come in a range of 30 to 70
durometer (a measure of stiffness). Material in excess
of 70 durometer is usually ineffective as an isolator. Isolators are designed for up to 13 mm deflection, but are used
where 8 mm or less deflection is required. Solid rubber and
composite fabric and rubber pads are also available. They
provide high load capacities with small deflection and are
used as noise barriers under columns and for pipe supports. These pad types work well only when they are properly loaded and the mass load is evenly distributed over
the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used
for this purpose.
Isolator Type 1: Glass fiber with elastic coating (type 1). This
type of isolation pad is precompressed molded fiberglass
pads individually coated with a flexible, moisture-impervious
elastomeric membrane. Natural frequency of fiberglass
vibration isolators should be essentially constant for the
operating load range of the supported equipment. Mass
load is evenly distributed over the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used for this purpose.
Isolator Types 3 and 4: Steel springs are the most popular
and versatile isolators for HVAC applications because they
are available for almost any deflection and have a virtually
unlimited life. Spring isolators may have a robber acoustical barrier to reduce transmission of
high-frequency vibration and noise that can migrate
down the steel spring coil. They should be corrosion-protect if installed outdoors or in a corrosive
environment. The basic types include the following:
Isolator Type 3: Open spring isolators (type 3) consist of
top and bottom load plates with adjustment bolts for leveling equipment. Springs should be designed with a horizontal stiffness of at least 80% of the vertical stiffness to
ensure stability. Similarly, the springs should have a minimum ratio of 0.8 for the diameter divided by the deflected
spring height.
Isolator Type 4: Restrained spring isolators (type 4)
have hold-down bolts to limit vertical as well as horizontal
movement. They are used with (a) equipment with large
variations in mass (e.g., boilers, chillers. cooling towers)
to restrict movement and prevent strain on piping when
water is removed, and (b) outdoor equipment, such as
condensing units and cooling towers, to prevent excessive
movement due to wind loads. Spring criteria should be the
same as open spring isolators, and restraints should have
adequate clearance so that they are activated only when
a temporary restraint is needed.

Closed mounts or housed spring isolators consist of two

telescoping housings separated by a resilient material.
These provide lateral snubbing and some vertical damping of equipment movement, bill do not limit the vertical
movement. Care should be taken selection and installation to minimize binding and short-circuiting.
Isolator Types 2 and 6: Air springs can be designed for
any frequency, but are economical only in applications with
natural frequencies of 1.33 Hz or less (150 mm or greater
deflection). They do not transmit high- frequency noise
and are often used to replace high-deflection springs on
problem jobs (e.g., large transformers on upper-floor installations). A constant air supply (an air compressor with
an air dryer) and leveling valves are typically required.
Isolator Type 3: Isolation hangers (types 2 and 3) are
used for suspended pipe and equipment and have
rubber, springs, or a combination of spring and rubber elements. Criteria should be similar to open spring
isolators, though lateral stability is less important.
Where support rod angular misalignment is a concern, use hangers that have sufficient clearance and/or
incorporate rubber bushings to prevent the rod from touching the housing. Swivel or traveler arrangements may be
necessary for connections to piping systems subject to
large thermal movements.
Precompressed spring hangers incorporate some means
of precompression or preloading of the isolator spring to
minimize movement of the isolated equipment or system. These are typically used on piping systems that can
change mass substantially between installation and operation.
Isolator Type 5: Thrust restraints (type 5) are similar 10
spring hangers or isolators and are installed in pairs to resist the thrust caused by air pressure. These are typically
sized 10 limit lateral movement 106.4 mm or less.
Base TypeA: Direct isolation (typeA) is used when equipment
is unitary and rigid and does not require additional support.
Direct isolation can be used with large chillers, some fans,
packaged air-handling units, and air-cooled condensers.
If there is any doubt that the equipment can be supported
directly on isolators, use structural bases (type B) or inertia bases (type C), or consult the equipment manufacturer.

Base Type B: Structural bases (type B) are used

where equipment cannot be support at individual locations and/or where some means is necessary to
maintain alignment of component pans in equipment.
These bases can be used with spring or rubber isolators (types 2 and 3) and should have enough rigidity to resist all starting and operating forces without
supplemental hold-down devices. Bases are made in
rectangular configurations using structural members with
a depth equal to one-tenth the longest span between isolators. Typical base depth is between 100 and 300 mm,
except where structural or alignment considerations dictate otherwise.
Structural rails (type B) are used to support equipment that
does not require a unitary base or where the isolators are
outside the equipment and the rails act as a cradle. Structural rails can be used with spring or rubber isolators and
should be rigid enough to support the equipment without
flexing. Usual practice is to use structural members with
a depth one-tenth of the longest span between isolators,
typically between 100 and 300 mm, except where structural considerations dictate otherwise.
Base Type C: Concrete bases (type C) are used where
the supported equipment requires a rigid support (e.g.,
flexible-coupled pumps) or excess heaving motion may
occur with spring isolators. They consist of a steel pouring form usually with welded-in rein forcing bars, provision for equipment hold-down, and isolator brackets. Like
structural bases, concrete bases should be sized to support piping elbow supports, rectangular or T-shaped, and
for rigidity, have a depth equal to one-tenth the longest
span between isolators. Base depth is typically between
150 and 300 mm unless additional depth is specifically
required for mass, rigidity, or component alignment.
Base Type D: Curb isolation systems (type D) are
specifically designed for curb-supported rooftop equipment and have spring isolation with a watertight, and
sometimes airtight, assembly. Rooftop rails consist of
upper and lower frames separated by nonadjustable
springs and rest on top of architectural roof curbs.
Isolation curbs incorporate the roof curb into their design
as well. Both kinds are designed with springs that have
static deflections in the 25 to 75 mm range to meet the
design criteria described in type 3. Flexible elastomeric
seals are typically most effective for weatherproofing
between the upper and lower frames. A continuous
sponge gasket around the perimeter of the top frame is
typically applied to further weatherproof the installation.

Notes for Selection Guide

for Vibration Isolation
Note 1: Isolator deflections shown are based on reasonably
expected floor stiffness according to floor span and class
of equipment. Certain spaces may dictate higher levels
of isolation. For example, bar joist roofs may require a
static deflection of 38 mm over factories, but 64 mm over
commercial office buildings.

Note 2: For large equipment capable of generating

substantial vibratory forces and structure borne noise,
increase isolator deflection, if necessary, so isolator stiffness is less than one-tenth the stiffness of the supporting
structure, as defined by the deflection due to load at the
equipment support.
Note 3: For noisy equipment adjoining or near noisesensitive areas, see the section on Mechanical Equipment Room Sound isolation.
Note 4: Contain designs cannot be installed directly on
individual isolators (type A), and the equipment manufacturer or a vibration specialist should be consulted on the
need for supplemental support (base type).
Note 5: Wind load conditions must be considered.
Restraint can be achieved with restrained spring isolators
(type 4), supplemental bracing, snubbers, or limit stops.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation

Note 8: To avoid isolator resonance problems, select

isolator deflection so that resonance frequency is 40% or
less of the lowest normal operating speed of equipment
(see Chapter 8 in the 2009 ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals). Some equipment, such as variable-frequency
drives, and high-speed equipment, such as screw chillers
and vaneaxial fans, contain very-high-frequency vibration.
This equipment creates new technical challenges in the
isolation of high-frequency noise and vibration from a
buildings structure. Structural resonances both internal
and external to the isolators can significantly degrade
their performance al high frequencies. Unfortunately, at
present no test standard exists for measuring the highfrequency dynamic properties of isolators, and commercially available products are not tested to determine their
effectiveness for high frequencies. To reduce the chance
of high-frequency vibration transmission, add a 25 mm
thick pad (type 1, Note 20) to the base plate of spring
isolators (type 3, Note 22, 23, 24). For some sensitive
locations, air springs (Note 25) may be required. If equipment is located near extremely noise-sensitive areas,
follow the recommendations of an acoustical consultant.
Note 9: To limit undesirable movement, thrust restraints
(type 5) are required for all ceiling-suspended and floormounted units operating at 1500 Pa or more total static
pressure.
Note 10: Pumps over 55 kW may need extra mass and
restraints.

Slab on Grade

Isolator
Type

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

B
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

RPM

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

Reciprocating
Centrifugal, scroll
Screw
Absorption
Air-cooled recip., scroll
Air-cooled screw

All
All
All
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All
All

A
A
A
A
A
A

2
1
1
1
2
4

Air Compressors
and Vacuum
Pumps

Tank-mounted horiz.

10
15
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All

A
C
C
C
C

Pumps

Close Coupled

7.5
10
5 to 25
30
40
50 to 125
150
All

All
All
All
All
All
All
All
All

Equipment
Category

Refrigation
Machines and
Chillers

Tank-mounted vert.
Base-Mounted
Large Reciprocating

Inline
End Suction and Double suction/Split Case
Packaged Pump Systems

Up to 20 ft (6 m) Floor Span
Base
Type

Horsepower
and Other

Equipment
Type

Note 6: Certain types of equipment require a curb-mounted base (type D). Airborne noise must be considered.
Note 7: See section on Resilient Pipe Hangers and
Supports for hanger locations adjoining equipment and in
equipment rooms.

Equipment Location

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

20 to 30 ft (6 - 9 m) Floor Span 30 to 40 ft (9-12 m) Floor Span

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Reference
Notes - pg 6

4
4
4
4
4
4

2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

2,3,12
2,3,4,8,12
2,3,4,12
2,4,5,12
2,4,5,8,12

A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

3,15
3,15
3,15
3,14,15
3,14,15

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)

16
16
16
10,16
10,16
-

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)

A
A
A
A
A
B

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Cooling Towers

All

All

Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A

1
1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

5,8,18
5,18
5,18

Boilers

Fire-tube
Water-tube, cooper fin

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

0.75 (19)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

1.50 (38)
0.12 (3)

B
B

4
4

2.50 (64)
0.25 (6)

4
-

Axial Fans,
Plenum Fans,
Cabinet Fans,
Fan Sections,
Centrifugal Inline
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
2 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

4,8,9
8,9
8,9
8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9

Centrifugal
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.00 (25)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

9,19
8,19
8,19
8,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19

2.1 in. SP

All
40
50

KINETICS Products
Meeting Selection Criteria
Base Type A -

No base, isolators attached directly to equipment

Base Type B -

Structural Rail Base,

Model SBB
Integral Structural Beam Base,
Model SFB

Base Type C -

Concrete Inertia Base,

Model CIB-L
Model CIB-H
Model CIB-SS

Base Type D -

Roof Curb Rail,

Model KSR
Model KSCR
Roof Curb Rail,
Model ESR

Isolator Type 1 -

Isolator Type 2 -

Fiberglass Isolation Pad,

Model KIP
Neoprene Isolation Pad,
Model NP
Model NG
Model RSP

Fiberglass Isolation Mount,
Model AC
Neoprene Isolation Mounts,
Model RD
Model RQ
Isolation Hanger,
Model FH
Model RH

Isolator Type 3 -

Free-standing Steel Spring,

Model FDS
House Spring Isolators,
Model SL
Model SM

Propeller
Fans

Wall-Mounted
Roof Exhauster

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

A
D

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

Heat Pumps, FanCoils, Computer

Room Units

All

All

All

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Condensing Units

All

All

All

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Isolator Type 4 -

AH, AC, H, and V

Units

All
All

10
15,
4 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A
A
B
B
B

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

A
C
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

19
2,4,8,19
4,19
4,19
2,3,4,8,9
2,3,4,9
2,3,4,9

Restrainted Spring Isolator,

Model TITAN
Model FMS
Model FLS
Model FLSS
Model FHS
Model FRS

Isolator Type 5 -

All

A/D

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

Thrust Restraint,
Model HSR

Isolator Type 6 -

Air Spring,
Model KAM
Model CAM

>15,
>4 in. SP
Packaged Rooftop
Equipment

All

Ducted Rotating
Equipment

Small fans, fan-powered

boxes

Engine-Driven
Generators

All

All
600 cfm
600 cfm
All

All

Isolation Hangers,
Model SFH
Model SRH
Model SH

5,6,8,17

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

7
7

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

2.50 (64)

3.50 (89)

2,3,4

Source: 2011 ASHRAE Handbook

Specifications
The isolator or base selected for a particular application
depends on the required deflection, life, cost, and compatibility with associated structures and shall be manufactured by Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. Dublin, Ohio, as
follows:
Isolator Types 1 and 2: Rubber isolators are available in pad (type I) and molded (type 2) configurations. Pads are used in single or multiple layers. Molded isolators come in a range of 30 to 70
durometer (a measure of stiffness). Material in excess
of 70 durometer is usually ineffective as an isolator. Isolators are designed for up to 13 mm deflection, but are used
where 8 mm or less deflection is required. Solid rubber and
composite fabric and rubber pads are also available. They
provide high load capacities with small deflection and are
used as noise barriers under columns and for pipe supports. These pad types work well only when they are properly loaded and the mass load is evenly distributed over
the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used
for this purpose.
Isolator Type 1: Glass fiber with elastic coating (type 1). This
type of isolation pad is precompressed molded fiberglass
pads individually coated with a flexible, moisture-impervious
elastomeric membrane. Natural frequency of fiberglass
vibration isolators should be essentially constant for the
operating load range of the supported equipment. Mass
load is evenly distributed over the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used for this purpose.
Isolator Types 3 and 4: Steel springs are the most popular
and versatile isolators for HVAC applications because they
are available for almost any deflection and have a virtually
unlimited life. Spring isolators may have a robber acoustical barrier to reduce transmission of
high-frequency vibration and noise that can migrate
down the steel spring coil. They should be corrosion-protect if installed outdoors or in a corrosive
environment. The basic types include the following:
Isolator Type 3: Open spring isolators (type 3) consist of
top and bottom load plates with adjustment bolts for leveling equipment. Springs should be designed with a horizontal stiffness of at least 80% of the vertical stiffness to
ensure stability. Similarly, the springs should have a minimum ratio of 0.8 for the diameter divided by the deflected
spring height.
Isolator Type 4: Restrained spring isolators (type 4)
have hold-down bolts to limit vertical as well as horizontal
movement. They are used with (a) equipment with large
variations in mass (e.g., boilers, chillers. cooling towers)
to restrict movement and prevent strain on piping when
water is removed, and (b) outdoor equipment, such as
condensing units and cooling towers, to prevent excessive
movement due to wind loads. Spring criteria should be the
same as open spring isolators, and restraints should have
adequate clearance so that they are activated only when
a temporary restraint is needed.

Closed mounts or housed spring isolators consist of two

telescoping housings separated by a resilient material.
These provide lateral snubbing and some vertical damping of equipment movement, bill do not limit the vertical
movement. Care should be taken selection and installation to minimize binding and short-circuiting.
Isolator Types 2 and 6: Air springs can be designed for
any frequency, but are economical only in applications with
natural frequencies of 1.33 Hz or less (150 mm or greater
deflection). They do not transmit high- frequency noise
and are often used to replace high-deflection springs on
problem jobs (e.g., large transformers on upper-floor installations). A constant air supply (an air compressor with
an air dryer) and leveling valves are typically required.
Isolator Type 3: Isolation hangers (types 2 and 3) are
used for suspended pipe and equipment and have
rubber, springs, or a combination of spring and rubber elements. Criteria should be similar to open spring
isolators, though lateral stability is less important.
Where support rod angular misalignment is a concern, use hangers that have sufficient clearance and/or
incorporate rubber bushings to prevent the rod from touching the housing. Swivel or traveler arrangements may be
necessary for connections to piping systems subject to
large thermal movements.
Precompressed spring hangers incorporate some means
of precompression or preloading of the isolator spring to
minimize movement of the isolated equipment or system. These are typically used on piping systems that can
change mass substantially between installation and operation.
Isolator Type 5: Thrust restraints (type 5) are similar 10
spring hangers or isolators and are installed in pairs to resist the thrust caused by air pressure. These are typically
sized 10 limit lateral movement 106.4 mm or less.
Base TypeA: Direct isolation (typeA) is used when equipment
is unitary and rigid and does not require additional support.
Direct isolation can be used with large chillers, some fans,
packaged air-handling units, and air-cooled condensers.
If there is any doubt that the equipment can be supported
directly on isolators, use structural bases (type B) or inertia bases (type C), or consult the equipment manufacturer.

Base Type B: Structural bases (type B) are used

where equipment cannot be support at individual locations and/or where some means is necessary to
maintain alignment of component pans in equipment.
These bases can be used with spring or rubber isolators (types 2 and 3) and should have enough rigidity to resist all starting and operating forces without
supplemental hold-down devices. Bases are made in
rectangular configurations using structural members with
a depth equal to one-tenth the longest span between isolators. Typical base depth is between 100 and 300 mm,
except where structural or alignment considerations dictate otherwise.
Structural rails (type B) are used to support equipment that
does not require a unitary base or where the isolators are
outside the equipment and the rails act as a cradle. Structural rails can be used with spring or rubber isolators and
should be rigid enough to support the equipment without
flexing. Usual practice is to use structural members with
a depth one-tenth of the longest span between isolators,
typically between 100 and 300 mm, except where structural considerations dictate otherwise.
Base Type C: Concrete bases (type C) are used where
the supported equipment requires a rigid support (e.g.,
flexible-coupled pumps) or excess heaving motion may
occur with spring isolators. They consist of a steel pouring form usually with welded-in rein forcing bars, provision for equipment hold-down, and isolator brackets. Like
structural bases, concrete bases should be sized to support piping elbow supports, rectangular or T-shaped, and
for rigidity, have a depth equal to one-tenth the longest
span between isolators. Base depth is typically between
150 and 300 mm unless additional depth is specifically
required for mass, rigidity, or component alignment.
Base Type D: Curb isolation systems (type D) are
specifically designed for curb-supported rooftop equipment and have spring isolation with a watertight, and
sometimes airtight, assembly. Rooftop rails consist of
upper and lower frames separated by nonadjustable
springs and rest on top of architectural roof curbs.
Isolation curbs incorporate the roof curb into their design
as well. Both kinds are designed with springs that have
static deflections in the 25 to 75 mm range to meet the
design criteria described in type 3. Flexible elastomeric
seals are typically most effective for weatherproofing
between the upper and lower frames. A continuous
sponge gasket around the perimeter of the top frame is
typically applied to further weatherproof the installation.

Notes for Selection Guide

for Vibration Isolation
Note 1: Isolator deflections shown are based on reasonably
expected floor stiffness according to floor span and class
of equipment. Certain spaces may dictate higher levels
of isolation. For example, bar joist roofs may require a
static deflection of 38 mm over factories, but 64 mm over
commercial office buildings.

Note 2: For large equipment capable of generating

substantial vibratory forces and structure borne noise,
increase isolator deflection, if necessary, so isolator stiffness is less than one-tenth the stiffness of the supporting
structure, as defined by the deflection due to load at the
equipment support.
Note 3: For noisy equipment adjoining or near noisesensitive areas, see the section on Mechanical Equipment Room Sound isolation.
Note 4: Contain designs cannot be installed directly on
individual isolators (type A), and the equipment manufacturer or a vibration specialist should be consulted on the
need for supplemental support (base type).
Note 5: Wind load conditions must be considered.
Restraint can be achieved with restrained spring isolators
(type 4), supplemental bracing, snubbers, or limit stops.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation

Note 8: To avoid isolator resonance problems, select

isolator deflection so that resonance frequency is 40% or
less of the lowest normal operating speed of equipment
(see Chapter 8 in the 2009 ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals). Some equipment, such as variable-frequency
drives, and high-speed equipment, such as screw chillers
and vaneaxial fans, contain very-high-frequency vibration.
This equipment creates new technical challenges in the
isolation of high-frequency noise and vibration from a
buildings structure. Structural resonances both internal
and external to the isolators can significantly degrade
their performance al high frequencies. Unfortunately, at
present no test standard exists for measuring the highfrequency dynamic properties of isolators, and commercially available products are not tested to determine their
effectiveness for high frequencies. To reduce the chance
of high-frequency vibration transmission, add a 25 mm
thick pad (type 1, Note 20) to the base plate of spring
isolators (type 3, Note 22, 23, 24). For some sensitive
locations, air springs (Note 25) may be required. If equipment is located near extremely noise-sensitive areas,
follow the recommendations of an acoustical consultant.
Note 9: To limit undesirable movement, thrust restraints
(type 5) are required for all ceiling-suspended and floormounted units operating at 1500 Pa or more total static
pressure.
Note 10: Pumps over 55 kW may need extra mass and
restraints.

Slab on Grade

Isolator
Type

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

B
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

RPM

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

Reciprocating
Centrifugal, scroll
Screw
Absorption
Air-cooled recip., scroll
Air-cooled screw

All
All
All
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All
All

A
A
A
A
A
A

2
1
1
1
2
4

Air Compressors
and Vacuum
Pumps

Tank-mounted horiz.

10
15
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All

A
C
C
C
C

Pumps

Close Coupled

7.5
10
5 to 25
30
40
50 to 125
150
All

All
All
All
All
All
All
All
All

Equipment
Category

Refrigation
Machines and
Chillers

Tank-mounted vert.
Base-Mounted
Large Reciprocating

Inline
End Suction and Double suction/Split Case
Packaged Pump Systems

Up to 20 ft (6 m) Floor Span
Base
Type

Horsepower
and Other

Equipment
Type

Note 6: Certain types of equipment require a curb-mounted base (type D). Airborne noise must be considered.
Note 7: See section on Resilient Pipe Hangers and
Supports for hanger locations adjoining equipment and in
equipment rooms.

Equipment Location

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

20 to 30 ft (6 - 9 m) Floor Span 30 to 40 ft (9-12 m) Floor Span

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Reference
Notes - pg 6

4
4
4
4
4
4

2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

2,3,12
2,3,4,8,12
2,3,4,12
2,4,5,12
2,4,5,8,12

A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

3,15
3,15
3,15
3,14,15
3,14,15

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)

16
16
16
10,16
10,16
-

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)

A
A
A
A
A
B

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Cooling Towers

All

All

Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A

1
1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

5,8,18
5,18
5,18

Boilers

Fire-tube
Water-tube, cooper fin

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

0.75 (19)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

1.50 (38)
0.12 (3)

B
B

4
4

2.50 (64)
0.25 (6)

4
-

Axial Fans,
Plenum Fans,
Cabinet Fans,
Fan Sections,
Centrifugal Inline
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
2 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

4,8,9
8,9
8,9
8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9

Centrifugal
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.00 (25)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

9,19
8,19
8,19
8,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19

2.1 in. SP

All
40
50

KINETICS Products
Meeting Selection Criteria
Base Type A -

No base, isolators attached directly to equipment

Base Type B -

Structural Rail Base,

Model SBB
Integral Structural Beam Base,
Model SFB

Base Type C -

Concrete Inertia Base,

Model CIB-L
Model CIB-H
Model CIB-SS

Base Type D -

Roof Curb Rail,

Model KSR
Model KSCR
Roof Curb Rail,
Model ESR

Isolator Type 1 -

Isolator Type 2 -

Fiberglass Isolation Pad,

Model KIP
Neoprene Isolation Pad,
Model NP
Model NG
Model RSP

Fiberglass Isolation Mount,
Model AC
Neoprene Isolation Mounts,
Model RD
Model RQ
Isolation Hanger,
Model FH
Model RH

Isolator Type 3 -

Free-standing Steel Spring,

Model FDS
House Spring Isolators,
Model SL
Model SM

Propeller
Fans

Wall-Mounted
Roof Exhauster

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

A
D

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

Heat Pumps, FanCoils, Computer

Room Units

All

All

All

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Condensing Units

All

All

All

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Isolator Type 4 -

AH, AC, H, and V

Units

All
All

10
15,
4 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A
A
B
B
B

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

A
C
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

19
2,4,8,19
4,19
4,19
2,3,4,8,9
2,3,4,9
2,3,4,9

Restrainted Spring Isolator,

Model TITAN
Model FMS
Model FLS
Model FLSS
Model FHS
Model FRS

Isolator Type 5 -

All

A/D

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

Thrust Restraint,
Model HSR

Isolator Type 6 -

Air Spring,
Model KAM
Model CAM

>15,
>4 in. SP
Packaged Rooftop
Equipment

All

Ducted Rotating
Equipment

Small fans, fan-powered

boxes

Engine-Driven
Generators

All

All
600 cfm
600 cfm
All

All

Isolation Hangers,
Model SFH
Model SRH
Model SH

5,6,8,17

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

7
7

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

2.50 (64)

3.50 (89)

2,3,4

Source: 2011 ASHRAE Handbook

Specifications
The isolator or base selected for a particular application
depends on the required deflection, life, cost, and compatibility with associated structures and shall be manufactured by Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. Dublin, Ohio, as
follows:
Isolator Types 1 and 2: Rubber isolators are available in pad (type I) and molded (type 2) configurations. Pads are used in single or multiple layers. Molded isolators come in a range of 30 to 70
durometer (a measure of stiffness). Material in excess
of 70 durometer is usually ineffective as an isolator. Isolators are designed for up to 13 mm deflection, but are used
where 8 mm or less deflection is required. Solid rubber and
composite fabric and rubber pads are also available. They
provide high load capacities with small deflection and are
used as noise barriers under columns and for pipe supports. These pad types work well only when they are properly loaded and the mass load is evenly distributed over
the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used
for this purpose.
Isolator Type 1: Glass fiber with elastic coating (type 1). This
type of isolation pad is precompressed molded fiberglass
pads individually coated with a flexible, moisture-impervious
elastomeric membrane. Natural frequency of fiberglass
vibration isolators should be essentially constant for the
operating load range of the supported equipment. Mass
load is evenly distributed over the entire pad surface. Metal loading plates can be used for this purpose.
Isolator Types 3 and 4: Steel springs are the most popular
and versatile isolators for HVAC applications because they
are available for almost any deflection and have a virtually
unlimited life. Spring isolators may have a robber acoustical barrier to reduce transmission of
high-frequency vibration and noise that can migrate
down the steel spring coil. They should be corrosion-protect if installed outdoors or in a corrosive
environment. The basic types include the following:
Isolator Type 3: Open spring isolators (type 3) consist of
top and bottom load plates with adjustment bolts for leveling equipment. Springs should be designed with a horizontal stiffness of at least 80% of the vertical stiffness to
ensure stability. Similarly, the springs should have a minimum ratio of 0.8 for the diameter divided by the deflected
spring height.
Isolator Type 4: Restrained spring isolators (type 4)
have hold-down bolts to limit vertical as well as horizontal
movement. They are used with (a) equipment with large
variations in mass (e.g., boilers, chillers. cooling towers)
to restrict movement and prevent strain on piping when
water is removed, and (b) outdoor equipment, such as
condensing units and cooling towers, to prevent excessive
movement due to wind loads. Spring criteria should be the
same as open spring isolators, and restraints should have
adequate clearance so that they are activated only when
a temporary restraint is needed.

Closed mounts or housed spring isolators consist of two

telescoping housings separated by a resilient material.
These provide lateral snubbing and some vertical damping of equipment movement, bill do not limit the vertical
movement. Care should be taken selection and installation to minimize binding and short-circuiting.
Isolator Types 2 and 6: Air springs can be designed for
any frequency, but are economical only in applications with
natural frequencies of 1.33 Hz or less (150 mm or greater
deflection). They do not transmit high- frequency noise
and are often used to replace high-deflection springs on
problem jobs (e.g., large transformers on upper-floor installations). A constant air supply (an air compressor with
an air dryer) and leveling valves are typically required.
Isolator Type 3: Isolation hangers (types 2 and 3) are
used for suspended pipe and equipment and have
rubber, springs, or a combination of spring and rubber elements. Criteria should be similar to open spring
isolators, though lateral stability is less important.
Where support rod angular misalignment is a concern, use hangers that have sufficient clearance and/or
incorporate rubber bushings to prevent the rod from touching the housing. Swivel or traveler arrangements may be
necessary for connections to piping systems subject to
large thermal movements.
Precompressed spring hangers incorporate some means
of precompression or preloading of the isolator spring to
minimize movement of the isolated equipment or system. These are typically used on piping systems that can
change mass substantially between installation and operation.
Isolator Type 5: Thrust restraints (type 5) are similar 10
spring hangers or isolators and are installed in pairs to resist the thrust caused by air pressure. These are typically
sized 10 limit lateral movement 106.4 mm or less.
Base TypeA: Direct isolation (typeA) is used when equipment
is unitary and rigid and does not require additional support.
Direct isolation can be used with large chillers, some fans,
packaged air-handling units, and air-cooled condensers.
If there is any doubt that the equipment can be supported
directly on isolators, use structural bases (type B) or inertia bases (type C), or consult the equipment manufacturer.

Base Type B: Structural bases (type B) are used

where equipment cannot be support at individual locations and/or where some means is necessary to
maintain alignment of component pans in equipment.
These bases can be used with spring or rubber isolators (types 2 and 3) and should have enough rigidity to resist all starting and operating forces without
supplemental hold-down devices. Bases are made in
rectangular configurations using structural members with
a depth equal to one-tenth the longest span between isolators. Typical base depth is between 100 and 300 mm,
except where structural or alignment considerations dictate otherwise.
Structural rails (type B) are used to support equipment that
does not require a unitary base or where the isolators are
outside the equipment and the rails act as a cradle. Structural rails can be used with spring or rubber isolators and
should be rigid enough to support the equipment without
flexing. Usual practice is to use structural members with
a depth one-tenth of the longest span between isolators,
typically between 100 and 300 mm, except where structural considerations dictate otherwise.
Base Type C: Concrete bases (type C) are used where
the supported equipment requires a rigid support (e.g.,
flexible-coupled pumps) or excess heaving motion may
occur with spring isolators. They consist of a steel pouring form usually with welded-in rein forcing bars, provision for equipment hold-down, and isolator brackets. Like
structural bases, concrete bases should be sized to support piping elbow supports, rectangular or T-shaped, and
for rigidity, have a depth equal to one-tenth the longest
span between isolators. Base depth is typically between
150 and 300 mm unless additional depth is specifically
required for mass, rigidity, or component alignment.
Base Type D: Curb isolation systems (type D) are
specifically designed for curb-supported rooftop equipment and have spring isolation with a watertight, and
sometimes airtight, assembly. Rooftop rails consist of
upper and lower frames separated by nonadjustable
springs and rest on top of architectural roof curbs.
Isolation curbs incorporate the roof curb into their design
as well. Both kinds are designed with springs that have
static deflections in the 25 to 75 mm range to meet the
design criteria described in type 3. Flexible elastomeric
seals are typically most effective for weatherproofing
between the upper and lower frames. A continuous
sponge gasket around the perimeter of the top frame is
typically applied to further weatherproof the installation.

Notes for Selection Guide

for Vibration Isolation
Note 1: Isolator deflections shown are based on reasonably
expected floor stiffness according to floor span and class
of equipment. Certain spaces may dictate higher levels
of isolation. For example, bar joist roofs may require a
static deflection of 38 mm over factories, but 64 mm over
commercial office buildings.

Note 2: For large equipment capable of generating

substantial vibratory forces and structure borne noise,
increase isolator deflection, if necessary, so isolator stiffness is less than one-tenth the stiffness of the supporting
structure, as defined by the deflection due to load at the
equipment support.
Note 3: For noisy equipment adjoining or near noisesensitive areas, see the section on Mechanical Equipment Room Sound isolation.
Note 4: Contain designs cannot be installed directly on
individual isolators (type A), and the equipment manufacturer or a vibration specialist should be consulted on the
need for supplemental support (base type).
Note 5: Wind load conditions must be considered.
Restraint can be achieved with restrained spring isolators
(type 4), supplemental bracing, snubbers, or limit stops.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation

Note 8: To avoid isolator resonance problems, select

isolator deflection so that resonance frequency is 40% or
less of the lowest normal operating speed of equipment
(see Chapter 8 in the 2009 ASHRAE Handbook Fundamentals). Some equipment, such as variable-frequency
drives, and high-speed equipment, such as screw chillers
and vaneaxial fans, contain very-high-frequency vibration.
This equipment creates new technical challenges in the
isolation of high-frequency noise and vibration from a
buildings structure. Structural resonances both internal
and external to the isolators can significantly degrade
their performance al high frequencies. Unfortunately, at
present no test standard exists for measuring the highfrequency dynamic properties of isolators, and commercially available products are not tested to determine their
effectiveness for high frequencies. To reduce the chance
of high-frequency vibration transmission, add a 25 mm
thick pad (type 1, Note 20) to the base plate of spring
isolators (type 3, Note 22, 23, 24). For some sensitive
locations, air springs (Note 25) may be required. If equipment is located near extremely noise-sensitive areas,
follow the recommendations of an acoustical consultant.
Note 9: To limit undesirable movement, thrust restraints
(type 5) are required for all ceiling-suspended and floormounted units operating at 1500 Pa or more total static
pressure.
Note 10: Pumps over 55 kW may need extra mass and
restraints.

Slab on Grade

Isolator
Type

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
1.00 (25)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

B
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

RPM

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

Reciprocating
Centrifugal, scroll
Screw
Absorption
Air-cooled recip., scroll
Air-cooled screw

All
All
All
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All
All

A
A
A
A
A
A

2
1
1
1
2
4

Air Compressors
and Vacuum
Pumps

Tank-mounted horiz.

10
15
All
All
All

All
All
All
All
All

A
C
C
C
C

Pumps

Close Coupled

7.5
10
5 to 25
30
40
50 to 125
150
All

All
All
All
All
All
All
All
All

Equipment
Category

Refrigation
Machines and
Chillers

Tank-mounted vert.
Base-Mounted
Large Reciprocating

Inline
End Suction and Double suction/Split Case
Packaged Pump Systems

Up to 20 ft (6 m) Floor Span
Base
Type

Horsepower
and Other

Equipment
Type

Note 6: Certain types of equipment require a curb-mounted base (type D). Airborne noise must be considered.
Note 7: See section on Resilient Pipe Hangers and
Supports for hanger locations adjoining equipment and in
equipment rooms.

Equipment Location

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

20 to 30 ft (6 - 9 m) Floor Span 30 to 40 ft (9-12 m) Floor Span

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Reference
Notes - pg 6

4
4
4
4
4
4

2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

2,3,12
2,3,4,8,12
2,3,4,12
2,4,5,12
2,4,5,8,12

A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

3,15
3,15
3,15
3,14,15
3,14,15

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)

16
16
16
10,16
10,16
-

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
2.50 (64)

A
A
A
A
A
B

3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

Base
Type

Isolator
Type

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
A
B

4
4
4
4
4
4

3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
C
C

C
C
A
A
C
C
C
A

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

Min. Defl.,
in. (mm)

Cooling Towers

All

All

Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A

1
1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A

4
4
4

3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

5,8,18
5,18
5,18

Boilers

Fire-tube
Water-tube, cooper fin

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

0.75 (19)
0.12 (3)

B
A

4
1

1.50 (38)
0.12 (3)

B
B

4
4

2.50 (64)
0.25 (6)

4
-

Axial Fans,
Plenum Fans,
Cabinet Fans,
Fan Sections,
Centrifugal Inline
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
2 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

C
C
C
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

4,8,9
8,9
8,9
8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9
3,8,9

Centrifugal
Fans

Up to 22 in. diameter
24 in. diameter and up

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

2
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.25 (6)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
1.00 (25)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

B
B
B
B
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

9,19
8,19
8,19
8,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19
2,3,8,9,19

2.1 in. SP

All
40
50

KINETICS Products
Meeting Selection Criteria
Base Type A -

No base, isolators attached directly to equipment

Base Type B -

Structural Rail Base,

Model SBB
Integral Structural Beam Base,
Model SFB

Base Type C -

Concrete Inertia Base,

Model CIB-L
Model CIB-H
Model CIB-SS

Base Type D -

Roof Curb Rail,

Model KSR
Model KSCR
Roof Curb Rail,
Model ESR

Isolator Type 1 -

Isolator Type 2 -

Fiberglass Isolation Pad,

Model KIP
Neoprene Isolation Pad,
Model NP
Model NG
Model RSP

Fiberglass Isolation Mount,
Model AC
Neoprene Isolation Mounts,
Model RD
Model RQ
Isolation Hanger,
Model FH
Model RH

Isolator Type 3 -

Free-standing Steel Spring,

Model FDS
House Spring Isolators,
Model SL
Model SM

Propeller
Fans

Wall-Mounted
Roof Exhauster

All
All

All
All

A
A

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
1

0.25 (6)
0.25 (6)

A
B

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

A
D

1
4

0.25 (6)
1.50 (38)

Heat Pumps, FanCoils, Computer

Room Units

All

All

All

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

0.75 (19)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Condensing Units

All

All

All

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

A/D

1.50 (38)

Isolator Type 4 -

AH, AC, H, and V

Units

All
All

10
15,
4 in. SP

All
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up
Up to 300
301 to 500
500 and up

A
A
A
A
B
B
B

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)
0.75 (19)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
1.50 (38)
1.50 (38)

A
A
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)

A
C
A
A
C
C
C

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

0.75 (19)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
1.50 (38)
3.50 (89)
2.50 (64)
2.50 (64)

19
2,4,8,19
4,19
4,19
2,3,4,8,9
2,3,4,9
2,3,4,9

Restrainted Spring Isolator,

Model TITAN
Model FMS
Model FLS
Model FLSS
Model FHS
Model FRS

Isolator Type 5 -

All

A/D

0.25 (6)

0.75 (19)

Thrust Restraint,
Model HSR

Isolator Type 6 -

Air Spring,
Model KAM
Model CAM

>15,
>4 in. SP
Packaged Rooftop
Equipment

All

Ducted Rotating
Equipment

Small fans, fan-powered

boxes

Engine-Driven
Generators

All

All
600 cfm
600 cfm
All

All

Isolation Hangers,
Model SFH
Model SRH
Model SH

5,6,8,17

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

A
A

3
3

0.50 (13)
0.75 (19)

7
7

0.75 (19)

1.50 (38)

2.50 (64)

3.50 (89)

2,3,4

Source: 2011 ASHRAE Handbook

Isolation for Specific Equipment

Note 12 Refrigeration Machines: Large centrifugal, screw,
and reciprocating refrigeration machines may generate very
high noise levels; special attention is required when such
equipment is installed in upper-story locations or near noisesensitive areas. If equipment is located near extremely
noise-sensitive areas, follow the recommendations of an
acoustical consultant.
Note 13 Compressors: The two basic reciprocating
compressors are duct structures. (1) single- and doublecylinder vertical, horizontal or L-head, which are usually air compressors; and (2) Y, W, and multihead or multicylinder air and refrigeration compressors. Single- and
double-cylinder compressors generate high vibratory
forces requiring large inertia bases (type C) and are
general y not suitable for upper-Story locations. If this
equipment must be installed in an upper-story location or
at-grade location near noise-sensitive areas, the expected
maximum unbalanced force data must be obtained from the
equipment manufacturer and a vibration specialist consulted
for design of the isolation system.
Note 14 Compressors: When using Y, W, and multihead
and multicylinder compressors, obtain the magnitude of unbalanced forces from the equipment manufacturer so the
need for an inertia base can be evaluated.
Note 15 Compressors: Base-mounted compressors
through 4 kW and horizontal tank-type air compressors
through 8 kW can be installed directly on spring isolators (type 3) with structural bases (type B) if required, and
compressors 101075 kW on spring isolators (type 3)
with inertia bases (type C) with a mass I to 2 limes the
compressor mass.
Note 16 Pumps: Concrete inertia bases (type C) are
preferred for all flexible-coupled pumps and are desirable for most close-coupled pumps, although steel bases
(type B) can be used. Close-coupled pumps should not be
installed directly on individual isolators (type A) because the
impeller usually overhangs the motor support base, causing
the rear mounting to be in tension. The primary requirements
for type C bases are strength and shape to accommodate
base elbow supports. Mass is not usually a factor, except
for pumps over 55 kW, where extra mass helps limit excess
movement due to starting torque and forces. Concrete bases
(type C) should be designed for a thickness of one-tenth the
longest dimension with minimum thickness as follows: (1) for
up to 20 kW, 150 mm; (2) for 30 to 55 kW, 200 mm; and (3)
for 75 kW and up, 300 mm.
Pumps over 55 kW and multistage pumps may exhibit excessive motion at start-up (heaving); supplemental restraining devices can be installed if necessary. Pumps over
90 kW may generate high starting forces; a vibration specialist should be consulted.
Note 17 Packaged Rooftop Air-Conditioning Equipment: This equipment is usually installed on low-mass
structures that are susceptible to sound and vibration
transmission problems. The noise problems are
compounded further by curb-mounted equipment, which requires large roof openings for supply and return air.

The table shows type D vibration isolator selections for

all spans up top 6 m, but extreme care must be taken
for equipment located on spans of over 6 m, especially
if construction is open web joists or thin, low-mass
slabs. The recommended procedure is to determine the
additional deflection caused by equipment in the roof.
If additional roof deflection is 6 mm or less, the isolator
should be selected for 10 times the additional roof
deflection. If additional roof deflection is over 6 mm,
supplemental roof stiffening should be installed to bring the
roof deflection down below 6 mm, or the unit should be relocated to a stiffer roof position.
For mechanical units capable of generating high noise levels, mount the unit on a platform above the roof deck to provide an air gap (buffer zone) and locate the unit away from
the associated roof penetration to allow acoustical treatment
of ducts before they enter the building.
Some rooftop equipment has compressors, fans, and
other equipment isolated internally. This isolation is
not always reliable because of internal short-circuiting,
inadequate static deflection, or panel resonances. It is
recommended that rooftop equipment over 135 kg be
isolated externally, as if internal isolation was not used.
Note 18 Cooling Towers: These are normally isolated with
restrained spring isolators (type 4) directly under the tower
or lower dunnage. High deflection isolators proposed for use
directly under the motor-fan assembly must be used with extreme caution 10 ensure stability and safety under all weather conditions. See Note 5.
Note 19 Fans and Air-Handling Equipment: Consider the
following in selecting isolation systems for fans and air-handling equipment:
1. Fans with wheel diameters of 560 mm and less and
all fans operating at speeds up to 300 rpm do not
generate large vibratory forces. For fans operating
under 300 rpm, select isolator deflection so the isolator
natural frequency is 40% or less than the fan speed. For
example, for a fan operating at 275 rpm, 0.4 x 275 = 110
rpm. Therefore, an isolator natural frequency of 110 rpm
or lower is required. This can be accomplished with a 75
mm deflection isolator (type 3).
2. Flexible duct connectors should be installed at the
intake and discharge of all fans and air-handling equipment to reduce vibration transmission 10 air
3. Inertia bases (type C) are recommended for all class 2
and 3 fans and air-handling equipment because extra
mass allows the use of stiffer springs, which limit
heaving movements.
4. Thrust restraints (type 5) that incorporate the same
deflection as isolators should be used for all fan heads,
all suspended fans, and all base-mounted and suspended air-handling equipment operating at 500 Pa or more
total static pressure. Restraint movement adjustment
must be made under normal operational static pressures.

KINETICS NOISE CONTROL, INC., is recognized

as the major producer of products and systems for
the control of noise and vibration. The Company
markets products under the trade name KINETICS.
KINETICS products and engineered systems have
been incorporated throughout major industrial and
commercial buildings in the United States, Canada,
Europe, Australia, and the Far East.

Engineering Capabilities
Celebrating our 50th year in 2008, Kinetics Noise Control has extensive experience in the design, manufacturing and application
of innovative products to control sound and vibration. Kinetics pioneered development of precompressed, molded fiberglass pad
isolators that would be incorporated into a dynamic new floor isolation system.
Kinetics Noise Control now produces the industrys largest selection of inspired products to address vibration and noise control,
room acoustics, and seismic restraint concerns for almost any application. Value is added with our experienced team of engineering and customer support personnel ready to work with you.

Kinetics Noise Controls national headquarters and

manufacturing facilities are located in Dublin, Ohio, in a
60,000 sq. ft. (5574 m) facility.

Kinetics Noise Control features extensive practical experience in both design and application. The experienced staff of over
twenty (20) technically trained individuals includes seven (7) licensed professional engineers, two (2) holding Masters degrees
and one (1) who has earned a Ph.D., spread across engineering and manufacturing centers in Ohio, USA, Ontario, Canada,
and Hong Kong, China. Our combined technical experience exceeds 400 years with over 250 years directly related to sound,
vibration control and seismic issues. Kinetics Noise Control employees hold PE licenses in 30 states and provinces.

The Company provides products, systems, and solutions

to everyday problems and for complex applications
requiring noise and vibration control analysis.
By using the Kinetics Selection Guide contained in this
bulletin, proper isolation can be specified by type and
deflection to obtain optimum effectiveness of the isolators. By specifying deflection rather than theoretical
isolation efficiency, performance can be assured and
can be readily verified in the field.

Select Projects
Air Canada, Winnipeg James Armstrong Richard
International Airport Manitoba, CA
Aliante Station - Las Vegas
Altus Air Force Base, Altus AFB, OK
ARIA Hotel and Casino at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Army Aviation Support Facility, Santa Fe, NM
Barrie Fire Station, Barrie, Ontario CA
Caledon OPP Station, Caledon (Toronto),
Ontario CA
Casino Niagara
City of North Las Vegas Water Reclamation
Facility, Las Vegas, NV
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Ford Plant (Water Treatment Facility),
Oakville, Ontario CA
Ft Carson Firing Range, Ft Carson, CO
Ft. Detrick- Chevron, Ft. Detrick, MD
Ft. Lewis BCT Complex, Ft. Lewis, WA
Grand Hyatt Macau at City of Dreams
Grand Junction Public Safety Building,
Grand Junction, CO
Hard Rock Hotel Macau at City of Dreams
Harmon Tower at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Hollywood Casino, Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Indian Springs Correctional Facility,
Indian Springs, NV
Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, KY
Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, VA
The M Resort Spa Casino Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas at CityCenter

Moody Air Force Base Commissary,
Moody AFB, GA
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
New Jersey Air National Guard Operation
and Training
P-767 MH-60S Hangar and Airfield
Improvements, Norfolk, VA
Pearlgate Recreational Multiplex,
City of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, (NS), CA
Peel Regional Police Station,
Peel (Toronto), Ontario CA
Seal Operations Facility P-471, Norfolk, VA
Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY
St. Josephs Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario CA
Toronto Police Station, Toronto, Ontario CA
United States Courthouse, Jefferson City, MO
USO Tier III, Golden, CO
VA Hospital Mental Health Outpatient,
Salisbury, NC
Vdara Hotel and Spa at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Venetian Hotel Phantom Theatre in Las Vegas
Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center,
Columbia, SC
Womens College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
Woodstock General Hospital, Woodstock,
Ontario CA
York Regional Police Headquarters, York,
Ontario CA

kineticsnoise.com/seismic/titan.html
[email protected]
1-800-959-1229

Manufacturing facilities in Ohio, USA; California, USA; and Ontario, Canada. Sales offices worldwide.
Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. is continually upgrading the quality of our products.
We reserve the right to make changes to this and all products without notice.

HVAC SELECTION GUIDE 11/14

Kinetics engineering and testing facilities are

available at all times to assure that each product is
tailored to meet project specifications and field
conditions. Its staff of professionals welcomes the
opportunity to assist in selecting and specifying the
companys products and systems.
Kinetics provides certified engineering drawings when
requested for all products to assure compliance with
project specifications.
Vibration and vibration-induced noise, major
sources of occupant complaint, have steadily increased
in todays modern buildings. The problems have been
compounded by lighter weight construction and by the
positioning of equipment in penthouses or intermediate
level mechanical rooms. Not only is the physical
vibration in the structure disturbing, but noise which is
regenerated by the structural movement may be heard
in other remote sections of the structure.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation
of HVAC Equipment

Effectiveness of vibration isolators in bringing about

vibration reduction is indicated by the transmissibility
of the system. A typical transmissibility curve is shown
for vibrating equipment supported on isolators. When
the isolated system is excited at its natural frequency,
the system will be in resonance, and exciting forces
will be amplified rather than reduced. It is desirable to
select isolators with a natural frequency as far below
the equipment operating speed as possible to achieve
the highest degree of vibration control.

The Theoretical Isolation Efficiency shown on the transmissibility

curve assumes the isolators are located on a rigid floor. This rigidity
seldom occurs in above-grade applications. In practice, considerable
building deflection can occur,
which may reduce the
effectiveness of the vibration
isolators. Vibration isolators
must be selected to compensate for the floor deflection.
Longer spans also allow the
structure to be more flexible,
permitting the building to be
more easily set into motion.
With the aid of the Kinetics
Selection Guide, building
spans, equipment operating
speeds, equipment horsepower, damping, and other
factors have been taken into
consideration.
Typical transmissibility curve
By specifying Isolator
for an isolated system
Deflection
rather
than
isolation efficiency, transmissibility, or other theoretical parameters,
the consulting engineer can compensate for floor deflection and
building resonances by selecting isolators which are satisfactory
to provide minimum vibration transmission and which have more
deflection than the supporting floor.
By stating that all isolators and equipment bases shall be of the same
manufacturer and shall be supplied to the mechanical contractor, the
consulting engineer has placed the responsibility on a single source
who will be concerned with the vibration transmission from all
mechanical equipment in the building, rather than only those which
they supply.
When the specifier permits equipment suppliers to provide
appropriate isolators, which are not manufactured under Kinetics
high standards, he does not assure a satisfactory job, since different
brands of isolators may be furnished and no one supplier carries the
full responsibility for a building free of vibration and noise as specified.
To apply the information from the Selection Guide, base type,
isolator type, and minimum deflection columns are added to the
equipment schedule, and the isolator specifications are incorporated
into the specifications for the project. Then, for each piece of
mechanical equipment, base type, isolator type, and minimum
deflection are entered, as tabulated in the Selection Guide.
The Kinetics Selection Guide is available in digital format so consulting
engineers can select vibration isolators with the aid of their computer.
Digital copies are available through Kinetics representatives, on the
Kinetics Noise Control website or by contacting Kinetics directly.

Vibration Isolation
Pump
Number

GPM

Type

P-1
P-2
P-3
P-4

3000
10
360
420

Split Case
Close Coupled
End Suction
End Suction

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type Type
in. (mm)
7
6
7
7

2
1
2
2

1.75 (44)
0.25 (6)
1.75 (44)
0.75 (19)

Vibration Isolation
Air Unit
Number
AH-1
AH-2
AH-3
AH-4

CFM (cmm)

Wheel
Diameter
in. (mm)

RM-1022 4500 (127)

RM-1095 6000 (170)
RM-3210 10800 (306)
RM-187
1650 (47)

18 (457)
20 (508)
36 (914)
24 (610)

Area

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type
Type
in. (mm)
5
5
7
7

2
2
2
2

0.75 (19)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)

Isolation for Specific Equipment

Note 12 Refrigeration Machines: Large centrifugal, screw,
and reciprocating refrigeration machines may generate very
high noise levels; special attention is required when such
equipment is installed in upper-story locations or near noisesensitive areas. If equipment is located near extremely
noise-sensitive areas, follow the recommendations of an
acoustical consultant.
Note 13 Compressors: The two basic reciprocating
compressors are duct structures. (1) single- and doublecylinder vertical, horizontal or L-head, which are usually air compressors; and (2) Y, W, and multihead or multicylinder air and refrigeration compressors. Single- and
double-cylinder compressors generate high vibratory
forces requiring large inertia bases (type C) and are
general y not suitable for upper-Story locations. If this
equipment must be installed in an upper-story location or
at-grade location near noise-sensitive areas, the expected
maximum unbalanced force data must be obtained from the
equipment manufacturer and a vibration specialist consulted
for design of the isolation system.
Note 14 Compressors: When using Y, W, and multihead
and multicylinder compressors, obtain the magnitude of unbalanced forces from the equipment manufacturer so the
need for an inertia base can be evaluated.
Note 15 Compressors: Base-mounted compressors
through 4 kW and horizontal tank-type air compressors
through 8 kW can be installed directly on spring isolators (type 3) with structural bases (type B) if required, and
compressors 101075 kW on spring isolators (type 3)
with inertia bases (type C) with a mass I to 2 limes the
compressor mass.
Note 16 Pumps: Concrete inertia bases (type C) are
preferred for all flexible-coupled pumps and are desirable for most close-coupled pumps, although steel bases
(type B) can be used. Close-coupled pumps should not be
installed directly on individual isolators (type A) because the
impeller usually overhangs the motor support base, causing
the rear mounting to be in tension. The primary requirements
for type C bases are strength and shape to accommodate
base elbow supports. Mass is not usually a factor, except
for pumps over 55 kW, where extra mass helps limit excess
movement due to starting torque and forces. Concrete bases
(type C) should be designed for a thickness of one-tenth the
longest dimension with minimum thickness as follows: (1) for
up to 20 kW, 150 mm; (2) for 30 to 55 kW, 200 mm; and (3)
for 75 kW and up, 300 mm.
Pumps over 55 kW and multistage pumps may exhibit excessive motion at start-up (heaving); supplemental restraining devices can be installed if necessary. Pumps over
90 kW may generate high starting forces; a vibration specialist should be consulted.
Note 17 Packaged Rooftop Air-Conditioning Equipment: This equipment is usually installed on low-mass
structures that are susceptible to sound and vibration
transmission problems. The noise problems are
compounded further by curb-mounted equipment, which requires large roof openings for supply and return air.

The table shows type D vibration isolator selections for

all spans up top 6 m, but extreme care must be taken
for equipment located on spans of over 6 m, especially
if construction is open web joists or thin, low-mass
slabs. The recommended procedure is to determine the
additional deflection caused by equipment in the roof.
If additional roof deflection is 6 mm or less, the isolator
should be selected for 10 times the additional roof
deflection. If additional roof deflection is over 6 mm,
supplemental roof stiffening should be installed to bring the
roof deflection down below 6 mm, or the unit should be relocated to a stiffer roof position.
For mechanical units capable of generating high noise levels, mount the unit on a platform above the roof deck to provide an air gap (buffer zone) and locate the unit away from
the associated roof penetration to allow acoustical treatment
of ducts before they enter the building.
Some rooftop equipment has compressors, fans, and
other equipment isolated internally. This isolation is
not always reliable because of internal short-circuiting,
inadequate static deflection, or panel resonances. It is
recommended that rooftop equipment over 135 kg be
isolated externally, as if internal isolation was not used.
Note 18 Cooling Towers: These are normally isolated with
restrained spring isolators (type 4) directly under the tower
or lower dunnage. High deflection isolators proposed for use
directly under the motor-fan assembly must be used with extreme caution 10 ensure stability and safety under all weather conditions. See Note 5.
Note 19 Fans and Air-Handling Equipment: Consider the
following in selecting isolation systems for fans and air-handling equipment:
1. Fans with wheel diameters of 560 mm and less and
all fans operating at speeds up to 300 rpm do not
generate large vibratory forces. For fans operating
under 300 rpm, select isolator deflection so the isolator
natural frequency is 40% or less than the fan speed. For
example, for a fan operating at 275 rpm, 0.4 x 275 = 110
rpm. Therefore, an isolator natural frequency of 110 rpm
or lower is required. This can be accomplished with a 75
mm deflection isolator (type 3).
2. Flexible duct connectors should be installed at the
intake and discharge of all fans and air-handling equipment to reduce vibration transmission 10 air
3. Inertia bases (type C) are recommended for all class 2
and 3 fans and air-handling equipment because extra
mass allows the use of stiffer springs, which limit
heaving movements.
4. Thrust restraints (type 5) that incorporate the same
deflection as isolators should be used for all fan heads,
all suspended fans, and all base-mounted and suspended air-handling equipment operating at 500 Pa or more
total static pressure. Restraint movement adjustment
must be made under normal operational static pressures.

KINETICS NOISE CONTROL, INC., is recognized

as the major producer of products and systems for
the control of noise and vibration. The Company
markets products under the trade name KINETICS.
KINETICS products and engineered systems have
been incorporated throughout major industrial and
commercial buildings in the United States, Canada,
Europe, Australia, and the Far East.

Engineering Capabilities
Celebrating our 50th year in 2008, Kinetics Noise Control has extensive experience in the design, manufacturing and application
of innovative products to control sound and vibration. Kinetics pioneered development of precompressed, molded fiberglass pad
isolators that would be incorporated into a dynamic new floor isolation system.
Kinetics Noise Control now produces the industrys largest selection of inspired products to address vibration and noise control,
room acoustics, and seismic restraint concerns for almost any application. Value is added with our experienced team of engineering and customer support personnel ready to work with you.

Kinetics Noise Controls national headquarters and

manufacturing facilities are located in Dublin, Ohio, in a
60,000 sq. ft. (5574 m) facility.

Kinetics Noise Control features extensive practical experience in both design and application. The experienced staff of over
twenty (20) technically trained individuals includes seven (7) licensed professional engineers, two (2) holding Masters degrees
and one (1) who has earned a Ph.D., spread across engineering and manufacturing centers in Ohio, USA, Ontario, Canada,
and Hong Kong, China. Our combined technical experience exceeds 400 years with over 250 years directly related to sound,
vibration control and seismic issues. Kinetics Noise Control employees hold PE licenses in 30 states and provinces.

The Company provides products, systems, and solutions

to everyday problems and for complex applications
requiring noise and vibration control analysis.
By using the Kinetics Selection Guide contained in this
bulletin, proper isolation can be specified by type and
deflection to obtain optimum effectiveness of the isolators. By specifying deflection rather than theoretical
isolation efficiency, performance can be assured and
can be readily verified in the field.

Select Projects
Air Canada, Winnipeg James Armstrong Richard
International Airport Manitoba, CA
Aliante Station - Las Vegas
Altus Air Force Base, Altus AFB, OK
ARIA Hotel and Casino at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Army Aviation Support Facility, Santa Fe, NM
Barrie Fire Station, Barrie, Ontario CA
Caledon OPP Station, Caledon (Toronto),
Ontario CA
Casino Niagara
City of North Las Vegas Water Reclamation
Facility, Las Vegas, NV
Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Ford Plant (Water Treatment Facility),
Oakville, Ontario CA
Ft Carson Firing Range, Ft Carson, CO
Ft. Detrick- Chevron, Ft. Detrick, MD
Ft. Lewis BCT Complex, Ft. Lewis, WA
Grand Hyatt Macau at City of Dreams
Grand Junction Public Safety Building,
Grand Junction, CO
Hard Rock Hotel Macau at City of Dreams
Harmon Tower at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Hollywood Casino, Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Indian Springs Correctional Facility,
Indian Springs, NV
Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, KY
Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, VA
The M Resort Spa Casino Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas at CityCenter

Moody Air Force Base Commissary,
Moody AFB, GA
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
New Jersey Air National Guard Operation
and Training
P-767 MH-60S Hangar and Airfield
Improvements, Norfolk, VA
Pearlgate Recreational Multiplex,
City of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, (NS), CA
Peel Regional Police Station,
Peel (Toronto), Ontario CA
Seal Operations Facility P-471, Norfolk, VA
Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY
St. Josephs Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario CA
Toronto Police Station, Toronto, Ontario CA
United States Courthouse, Jefferson City, MO
USO Tier III, Golden, CO
VA Hospital Mental Health Outpatient,
Salisbury, NC
Vdara Hotel and Spa at CityCenter, Las Vegas
Venetian Hotel Phantom Theatre in Las Vegas
Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center,
Columbia, SC
Womens College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario CA
Woodstock General Hospital, Woodstock,
Ontario CA
York Regional Police Headquarters, York,
Ontario CA

kineticsnoise.com/seismic/titan.html
[email protected]
1-800-959-1229

Manufacturing facilities in Ohio, USA; California, USA; and Ontario, Canada. Sales offices worldwide.
Kinetics Noise Control, Inc. is continually upgrading the quality of our products.
We reserve the right to make changes to this and all products without notice.

HVAC SELECTION GUIDE 11/14

Kinetics engineering and testing facilities are

available at all times to assure that each product is
tailored to meet project specifications and field
conditions. Its staff of professionals welcomes the
opportunity to assist in selecting and specifying the
companys products and systems.
Kinetics provides certified engineering drawings when
requested for all products to assure compliance with
project specifications.
Vibration and vibration-induced noise, major
sources of occupant complaint, have steadily increased
in todays modern buildings. The problems have been
compounded by lighter weight construction and by the
positioning of equipment in penthouses or intermediate
level mechanical rooms. Not only is the physical
vibration in the structure disturbing, but noise which is
regenerated by the structural movement may be heard
in other remote sections of the structure.

Selection Guide
for Vibration Isolation
of HVAC Equipment

Effectiveness of vibration isolators in bringing about

vibration reduction is indicated by the transmissibility
of the system. A typical transmissibility curve is shown
for vibrating equipment supported on isolators. When
the isolated system is excited at its natural frequency,
the system will be in resonance, and exciting forces
will be amplified rather than reduced. It is desirable to
select isolators with a natural frequency as far below
the equipment operating speed as possible to achieve
the highest degree of vibration control.

The Theoretical Isolation Efficiency shown on the transmissibility

curve assumes the isolators are located on a rigid floor. This rigidity
seldom occurs in above-grade applications. In practice, considerable
building deflection can occur,
which may reduce the
effectiveness of the vibration
isolators. Vibration isolators
must be selected to compensate for the floor deflection.
Longer spans also allow the
structure to be more flexible,
permitting the building to be
more easily set into motion.
With the aid of the Kinetics
Selection Guide, building
spans, equipment operating
speeds, equipment horsepower, damping, and other
factors have been taken into
consideration.
Typical transmissibility curve
By specifying Isolator
for an isolated system
Deflection
rather
than
isolation efficiency, transmissibility, or other theoretical parameters,
the consulting engineer can compensate for floor deflection and
building resonances by selecting isolators which are satisfactory
to provide minimum vibration transmission and which have more
deflection than the supporting floor.
By stating that all isolators and equipment bases shall be of the same
manufacturer and shall be supplied to the mechanical contractor, the
consulting engineer has placed the responsibility on a single source
who will be concerned with the vibration transmission from all
mechanical equipment in the building, rather than only those which
they supply.
When the specifier permits equipment suppliers to provide
appropriate isolators, which are not manufactured under Kinetics
high standards, he does not assure a satisfactory job, since different
brands of isolators may be furnished and no one supplier carries the
full responsibility for a building free of vibration and noise as specified.
To apply the information from the Selection Guide, base type,
isolator type, and minimum deflection columns are added to the
equipment schedule, and the isolator specifications are incorporated
into the specifications for the project. Then, for each piece of
mechanical equipment, base type, isolator type, and minimum
deflection are entered, as tabulated in the Selection Guide.
The Kinetics Selection Guide is available in digital format so consulting
engineers can select vibration isolators with the aid of their computer.
Digital copies are available through Kinetics representatives, on the
Kinetics Noise Control website or by contacting Kinetics directly.

Vibration Isolation
Pump
Number

GPM

Type

P-1
P-2
P-3
P-4

3000
10
360
420

Split Case
Close Coupled
End Suction
End Suction

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type Type
in. (mm)
7
6
7
7

2
1
2
2

1.75 (44)
0.25 (6)
1.75 (44)
0.75 (19)

Vibration Isolation
Air Unit
Number
AH-1
AH-2
AH-3
AH-4

CFM (cmm)

Wheel
Diameter
in. (mm)

RM-1022 4500 (127)

RM-1095 6000 (170)
RM-3210 10800 (306)
RM-187
1650 (47)

18 (457)
20 (508)
36 (914)
24 (610)

Area

Minimum
Base Isolator Deflection
Type
Type
in. (mm)
5
5
7
7

2
2
2
2

0.75 (19)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)
1.75 (44)