Consulting for Construction & Machine Vibrations

What's the best way to obtain thorough vibration damage assessments?

Groundbreakings, machinery operation, and large blasts can transmit significant vibrations through the soil and into nearby structures. While construction vibrations rarely damage structural integrity, they may contribute to cosmetic damage of interior and exterior finishes, adversely impact sensitive equipment (e.g., scanning electron microscopes), or lead to physical discomfort and complaints from occupants.

Gauging the total effect of construction-related vibrations requires a thorough assessment of site characteristics and construction activities, vibration magnitude, relevant industry thresholds, and damage mechanisms. Exponent's investigative process includes establishing baseline conditions, researching applicable codes and standard practices, assessing vibration sources, analyzing the scale of vibrations on structures and soils, conducting a damage assessment, and, finally, consulting on recommended repairs.

Exponent has a multidisciplinary team of geotechnical, structural, and mechanical engineers with the expertise to assess every facet of construction and machine vibrations. We use a modular data acquisition system to record and monitor construction and ambient vibrations that can be adapted to our clients' specific needs, collecting and processing data from signals sent via wired or wireless connections. Exponent can also integrate video cameras, microphones, and sensors, including accelerometers, geophones, tiltmeters, hygrometers, and thermometers into the data acquisition system. Our staff uses cutting-edge tools and technology to measure, document, characterize, and evaluate the source and magnitude of induced vibration and its effects on structures, sensitive equipment, and human discomfort.