Equipment creates vibration when in operation. Most vibration can be dissipated from the equipment, if installed properly. A good installation would include a properly sized foundation mass, specific to the equipment being installed. Epoxy equipment grout is important to the success of the installation. A good epoxy equipment grout will form a positive bond between the equipment and the foundation, providing a pathway for vibration to travel.
You can reduce vibration in the equipment by properly transferring the vibration out of the machine to a properly sized foundation. This should be done through use of epoxy grout material.
If you don’t get the vibration transferred out of the rotating equipment, the result is premature bearing and seal failures. This will result in an unreliable piece of equipment.
If you properly get the vibration out of the equipment, its reliability will increase by a factor of 8 to 10 times.
The means of transmitting vibration is the epoxy grout. Epoxy grout acts as the conduit to transfer vibration from the equipment to the foundation where it can be dissipated.
If you don’t get the vibration out of the equipment, it will fail prematurely. Once you have vibration, it will compound until the equipment has failed.
If multiple equipment is set on the same foundation, one piece of equipment can pollute the other piece of equipment causing a sympathetic vibration.
Concrete needs to be completely hydrated which is typically 28 days with standard concrete. Concrete could be hydrated faster than 28 days but would need to be tested to verify full hydration.
Assuming the concrete is properly cured, grout can be poured after all concrete laitance is removed.
The depth of the foundation should be beep enough to properly embed the anchor bolts. This would vary based on the size of the equipment. First, consider the mass required for the foundation. Next, consider the 30 degree rule for a stable footprint.
A cover may be necessary to protect a foundation from sun, wind and rain.
Equipment should be set on separate foundation as not to pollute adjacent equipment with sympathetic vibration.
The foundation should be of sufficient depth to prevent damage to the piping or machinery due to frost penetration. This depth can vary with geography. Also, consider the 30 degree rule and the required mass.
