Farrat designs and manufactures specialist engineering solutions for vibration control, building acoustics and structural thermal breaks. Our products help improve building performance, reduce vibration and noise, and minimise thermal bridging in construction projects.
FAQs
Generic Farrat FAQs
What does Farrat do?
Who uses Farrat products?
Our products are specified by structural engineers, architects, acoustic consultants, MEP consultants, contractors and specialist manufacturers across a wide range of sectors.
Where are Farrat products manufactured?
Farrat products are designed and manufactured in the UK, with support for projects across the UK, Europe and international markets.
Can Farrat provide technical design support?
Yes. Our technical teams can provide guidance on product selection, design calculations, specifications and project-specific requirements.
Are Farrat products independently tested?
Many Farrat products are tested to recognised industry standards, with technical data and certification available where applicable.
Vibration Control FAQs
What is vibration isolation?
Vibration isolation reduces the transfer of vibration between equipment, structures or occupied spaces to improve performance, comfort and operational reliability.
When is vibration isolation required?
It is commonly required for plant equipment, rail infrastructure, data centres, laboratories, healthcare facilities, cultural buildings and precision manufacturing environments.
How do vibration isolation systems work?
They work by separating the vibration source from the surrounding structure, reducing the transmission of vibration and associated noise.
Can vibration affect building occupants?
Yes. Excessive vibration can impact occupant comfort, equipment performance and sensitive processes.
How do I select the right vibration isolation solution?
Selection depends on factors including equipment weight, operating frequency, structural constraints and project performance requirements.
Thermal Break FAQs
What is a structural thermal break?
A structural thermal break is an insulating element installed between structural connections to reduce heat transfer through the building envelope.
Why are thermal breaks important?
They help reduce thermal bridging, improve energy efficiency and support compliance with building regulations and sustainability targets.
Where are thermal breaks typically installed?
Common applications include balconies, canopies, façade connections, steel-to-steel junctions and structural support connections.
Can thermal breaks carry structural loads?
Yes. Structural thermal breaks are engineered to transfer compression, tension and shear loads whilst limiting heat transfer.
How do thermal breaks help achieve Net Zero goals?
By reducing heat loss and improving building fabric performance, thermal breaks contribute to lower operational energy demand and carbon emissions.
Acoustic Flooring FAQs
What is an acoustic floor solution?
An acoustic floor solution helps reduce the transmission of impact and airborne sound between floors.
What is the difference between impact and airborne sound?
Impact sound is generated through physical contact with a floor, such as footsteps. Airborne sound travels through the air, such as speech or music.
Which buildings benefit from acoustic floor systems?
Residential developments, hotels, student accommodation, healthcare facilities and commercial buildings often require acoustic floor solutions.
Can acoustic flooring help meet Building Regulations?
Yes. Acoustic floor systems are often used to help achieve the required levels of sound insulation specified within building regulations.
Engineering Design & Application FAQs
What is thermal bridging in steel structures?
Thermal bridging occurs when heat passes through structural elements that penetrate the building envelope. Structural thermal breaks reduce this heat transfer and improve energy efficiency.
How do engineers reduce vibration in buildings?
Engineers typically use vibration isolation systems, resilient mounts, floating floors and structural isolation solutions to minimise vibration transmission.
What is the best material for a structural thermal break?
Factors such as load capacity, thermal conductivity, durability and fire rating should be considered.
How can vibration affect sensitive equipment?
Vibration can reduce accuracy, impact operational performance and shorten the lifespan of sensitive equipment used in laboratories, healthcare and manufacturing facilities.
Are thermal breaks required for balconies?
Many balcony connections incorporate thermal breaks to reduce thermal bridging and improve overall building performance.
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