Laminated Vibration Isolators with Magneto-rheological Elastomers (MRE)

Protection of non-structural components from failure during a seismic event is imperative to achieve seismically resilient infrastructure. Semi-active control concepts, commonly used in structural control, can be extended to protect secondary components such as equipment in building structures during earthquakes. By selecting semi-active control devices with adaptability and smartness, safety of equipment can be ensured even in varied loading conditions. A semi-active laminated vibration isolator made adaptive using magneto-rheological elastomers, is proposed as a viable solution for seismic protection of non-structural components.

• Seismic protection of non structural components
• Seismic protection of equipment in critical infrastructure
• Vibration protection of machines against varying environmental loads

• Prototype design of isolator, with adaptable shear isolation characteristics
• Designed using Magneto-rheological elastomer (MRE) sheets, with steel plates in alternating layers
• Laminated in structure to ensure high vertical stiffness
• Isotropic MRE using natural and chloroprene-based rubber matrix, infused with CI particles
• External electromagnetic field arrangement to change the MRE properties