AISTECH Updates Air Isolator Selection Data | 23 Controlled Models and an Operating-Condition Review Process

Air-isolator selection should start with the actual operating conditions, not equipment mass alone. Load distribution, center of gravity, excitation range, target working height, foundation conditions and allowable motion all influence the isolator series and system configuration. AISTECH has consolidated the selection references and initial engineering review workflow for its APS, ABS and GBS series.

Three series, 23 controlled models

• APS diaphragm air isolators: 8 controlled models for test benches and precision equipment requiring stable support, leveling and system integration.
• ABS convoluted air springs: 10 controlled models for applications where dynamic loads, travel requirements and the support range need to be evaluated together.
• GBS belted air springs: 5 controlled models for heavy foundations and applications requiring combined vertical, lateral and multi-axis load assessment.

Series descriptions support preliminary screening only. The final model must be checked against its controlled performance curve, actual support reactions, target working height and supply pressure.

Information needed for an initial review

1. Equipment purpose and total mass, including fixtures, test articles and accessories.
2. Center-of-gravity coordinates, support count and coordinates, and platform or foundation details.
3. Operating speed, excitation-frequency range, dominant orders, start-stop transients and other dynamic loads.
4. Allowable vertical travel, lateral displacement, tilt and torsional motion.
5. Target working height, installation envelope, air-line routing and maintenance access.
6. Foundation type and stiffness, existing interfaces, and, for retrofit projects, site photos and the available shutdown window.
7. Compressed-air pressure and quality, plus leveling, monitoring and fault-protection requirements.

From series screening to model confirmation

The review first checks data completeness, then screens APS, ABS or GBS for the application. Support reactions are calculated from total load, center of gravity and support coordinates. Candidate models are checked at the required working height and pressure using controlled performance curves, including load margin, stiffness, natural frequency, travel and lateral stability. The isolators, pneumatic circuit, leveling control, restraints and foundation should be assessed as one system.

Important: Support force and dynamic performance vary with working height and air pressure. Catalog data are for preliminary screening. Final selection must use the applicable controlled model curve and the actual project boundaries; do not extrapolate beyond the published curve.

Prepare for an engineering review

Customers can begin with the equipment data, support-layout drawing, excitation information and foundation details already available. If values are unknown, identify them as pending so the engineering team can advise what should be measured or supplied next.

Review the 23 controlled models | View technical data | Submit operating conditions for an engineering review