Spring elements with helical compression springs are used for the project-specific and reliable support of structures. The relevant natural frequencies, which depend on the springs’ elastic properties in the vertical and horizontal directions, the permanent load, as well as the geometry of the supported structure, are in the range of 1 – 5 Hz vertically and 0.5 – 3 Hz horizontally. The most economical support frequency is around 3 – 3.5 Hz.

The precise choice of properties of the spring elements reduces dynamic forces, depending on the excitation frequency and the support elasticity. Active vibration isolation results in reduced effects of vibration on the environment, for example from operation of machinery. Passive isolation protects the object which is supported on top of the spring elements. In this way, buildings or sensitive equipment may be protected from ground-borne vibrations. Spring elements do not move or vibrate without external or internal loads; the load-bearing system remains permanently stable.

The easiest version of a spring element consists of upper and lower load-bearing plates and helical compression springs arranged between. This arrangement is cost effective with high performance potential. Anyhow, any change in the vertical load causes deflections during construction. This effect can be avoided by using pre-stressable elements. Usually in the factory, they are hydraulically pre-compressed to a specified height or planned installation load, and held in this position with pre-stressing bolts. This process is essential when constructing buildings or machine foundations.

Spring elements can be designed with one, more or many individual springs, depending on the vertical load. The properties of the individual springs must be selected regarding the field of application and the required load or displacement margins. Spring elements with integrated dampers can also be used, if required.

Spring element selection for your task is easy to find together with our specialists – feel free to contact us!