In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the demand for precision and reliability in sensitive manufacturing processes has never been greater. The advent of sophisticated equipment, particularly in sectors such as data storage, medical, electronics manufacturing and semiconductor production, has necessitated the development of cutting-edge solutions to counteract the detrimental effects of low-frequency vibration and shock. Enter Vlier’s Level Mount Swivel (LMS) Anti-Vibration Leveler — a device created specifically for shock attenuation and low-frequency vibration isolation that has been catering toFigure 1: Vlier’s LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler. Source: Vlier these needs for over two decades.

Origins of the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler: Collaboration and innovation

Vlier’s LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler was born in the late 1990s from a collaboration with Hutchinson Aerospace & Industry, Inc. (formerly Barry Controls). From its inception, this precision-engineered device has been providing industries with a dependable solution for leveling, aligning and protecting equipment stability while optimizing performance.

“We’re definitely predominant, preeminent and proactive in reducing vibrations through isolation,” reported Carl Purvis, Vlier business unit manager.

A deeper look into the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler

The LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler’s standout advantage is its ability to extend equipment lifespan by mitigating wear and tear caused by vibrations. This longevity translates into substantial cost savings.

Figure 2: Vlier’s LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler. Source: Vlier

Designed with the goal of shock attenuation and low-frequency vibration isolation for sensitive equipment, this swivel-style leveling device boasts an array of features that set it apart:

• Molded rubber to metal base: During the manufacture of an LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler, an adhesive is applied to the leveler's base, creating a bond with the metal. Subsequently, rubber is affixed to this adhesive layer. This method ensures optimal adhesion by bonding the rubber to the adhesive layer rather than directly to the metal.
• Swivel base: Unlike standard isolation mounts, the stud-style base swivels 15° off the centerline to adjust to uneven surfaces, allowing a level position for high precision equipment and light machinery.
• 3 inch radial ring pad: The device’s design incorporates a 3 inch radial ring pad with uniform stiffness, enhancing its load-bearing capacity and providing a stable platform for the supported equipment. Furthermore, the radial ring design tunes out noise and vibration frequencies under certain loads.
• 10 Hz to 20 Hz natural frequency: With a precisely tuned natural frequency of 10 Hz to 20 Hz, the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler efficiently targets and mitigates vibrations within this low frequency range.
• Operating temperature range: The device performs across a broad spectrum of operating temperatures, ranging from -20° F to 180° F (-30° C to 82° C), ensuring consistency in varying environments.
• Transmissibility at resonance: Transmissibility at resonance is at an impressive 8:1 ratio, further highlighting the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler’s effectiveness in isolating vibrations.
• Corrosion-resistant steel: The corrosion resistant finish makes this leveler well suited for long-term industrial use.

Applications and benefits: Addressing industry needs

The LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler has applications in diverse industries, including:

• Commercial-grade HVAC units: HVAC units are present atop office buildings, shopping malls and numerous other commercial structures. When these units are mounted on LMS Anti-Vibration Levelers, the mounts prevent the transmission of noise into the building’s interior.
• Commercial laundry units: Commercial washing machines and dryers are large and require reinforced foundations not only to support their weight, but also to counteract the vibrations they generate during operation. LMS Anti-Vibration Levelers, by offering shock attenuation and vibration control, provide a cost-effective alternative to expensive, high-strength concrete constructions.
• Packaging: In the packaging industry, equipment like printing presses often produces significant vibrations. Control panels, positioned adjacent to these machines, require effective isolation from such vibrations. LMS Anti-Vibration Levelers offer the ideal solution for achieving this.
• Data storage equipment: In an age where data integrity is paramount, the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler offers a stable platform for sensitive data storage equipment, minimizing vibrations that could potentially compromise data integrity.
• Medical and semiconductor equipment: Precision is non-negotiable in medical and semiconductor equipment. The LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler enhances precision by reducing vibrations that could otherwise hinder accuracy and performance.
• Sensitive electronics manufacturing: Electronics manufacturing demands exactitude. By isolating vibrations, the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler contributes to the consistent production of high-quality electronic components.
• Industrial workstations and machines: The industrial sector benefits from improved throughput and performance as the LMS Anti-Vibration Leveler minimizes vibrations that could lead to equipment malfunction or premature wear.

With a proven track record spanning more than two decades, Vlier’s LMS Anti-Vibration Levelers continue to be a trusted companion for industries that demand excellence in equipment stability and performance. If there is a specific weight, load, frequency, isolation control or noise control application that is required, Vlier can engineer a solution.

About Vlier

Vlier Products, a unit of Hutchinson Aerospace & Industry, has been an industry leader for more than 80 years, manufacturing spring loaded devices, quick-release devices, Vlier lock pins, leveling devices and mechanical components. Vlier offers more than 3,300 standard parts in a variety of sizes and materials for aerospace, medical, telecommunications, transportation and more. Every item in their extensive catalog has been engineered to provide the best quality and maximum value in productivity and dependable performance. Working smarter and harder for their customers, Vlier has the right part for the job. Based out of Massachusetts, Vlier calls upon a global distribution network, making their products readily available worldwide. For more information, visit Vlier's website.