Compression Molding
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Vibration Absorbers: Types, Operations, Advantages and Uses
Introduction
This article will take an in-depth look at vibration absorbers.
The article will bring more understanding on topics such as:
- Vibration Absorbers Principle of Operation
- Damping in Vibration Absorbers
- Types of Vibration Absorbers
- Applications of Vibration Absorbers
- And Much More…
Chapter 1: What is the principle of operation of vibration absorbers?
This section delves into vibration absorbers, exploring their terminology and operational mechanisms.
Understanding Vibration Absorbers
A vibration absorber is a spring-mass system with one degree of freedom (DOF) that deals with vibrations in systems affected by harmonic forces, such as engines, motors, and conveyors. Its primary purpose is to minimize or eliminate these vibrations, ensuring smoother and safer operation. Usually installed on vibrating systems, these devices create "anti-resonance" to counteract unwanted oscillations. An illustration of how a vibration absorber addresses these oscillations is provided below.
Terminology of Vibration Absorbers
Vibration absorbers are prevalent in many machines and mechanical systems, making their terminology essential to comprehend. The following sections cover this information in detail.
Vibration in the Context of Vibration Absorbers
Vibration is described as a mechanical phenomenon where oscillations occur around an equilibrium point. While vibrations are beneficial in some instances, such as mixing concrete with a concrete vibrator, they can also be detrimental by causing unwanted noise and energy wastage. In electric motors, engines, and numerous mechanical operations, vibrations are typically undesirable. When vibrations are not wanted, absorbers are implemented to diminish or eradicate them.
Explaining Resonance
Resonance is a phenomenon where the amplitude of vibrations increases when the frequency of an externally applied force corresponds with the system's natural frequency. This effect can be either beneficial or harmful, depending on the situation. In construction, resonance is commonly adverse, potentially causing structural damage such as cracks or collapses in bridges, buildings, and walls due to intensified vibrations. On the other hand, in the music domain, resonance is advantageous, used to enrich sound production in musical instruments.
Understanding Amplitude
Amplitude represents the maximum distance achieved by a displaced object or point within a system. For vibrating or displaced objects, this measurement is taken from the system's equilibrium position. In terms of sound waves, amplitude is determined by assessing the volume or loudness of the sound produced.
Energy Absorption Explained
Energy absorption describes the process where the magnitudes of random motion strengths (vibrations) are decreased.
Natural Frequency Explained
The natural frequency is the number of vibration cycles completed by a body or object in a specified period of time when vibrating freely.
Defining Shock
Shock refers to the disturbance or displacement of a body from its equilibrium position due to a sudden force application.
Control of Vibrations
Vibration control involves utilizing various devices, such as isolators, dampers, pads, and mounts, to capture the kinetic energy produced by vibrating elements, thereby preventing it from transferring to nearby surfaces.
How Vibration Absorbers Operate
Vibration absorbers are typically used in machines and systems operating at a constant speed or under continuous exciting frequencies. The setup comprises both the main system and the absorber, as illustrated in the diagram below.
Setting Up Vibration Absorber Systems
The following provides an arrangement for installing vibration absorbers:
Primary System (Payload)
The primary system is sometimes referred to as the payload and represents the component experiencing the unwanted frequencies needing management or mitigation. Examples include motors, engines, bridges, and machinery. Its natural elasticity allows it to return to its original shape after deformation.
The Absorber Functionality
The absorber, also known as the support, assists the primary system by reducing or eliminating encountered vibrations. This may involve elements like rubber mounts, springs, pads, and more. The absorber can also be hydraulic, where a hydraulic system is used for vibration absorption.
Energy Absorption in Vibration Absorbers
Vibrations from equipment signify a form of energy—kinetic energy—dissipating through random oscillations. Rubber effectively absorbs substantial amounts of kinetic energy due to its elasticity. Its durability and resistance to high temperatures make it suitable for environments like engines. Rubber's compatibility with various metals, alongside its high shear modulus and nonlinear stiffness, positions it as a preferred material. Typical natural and synthetic rubbers used in applications requiring heat and chemical resistance include silicone, butyl, fluoroelastomer, neoprene, and EPDM.
Hydraulic Shock Systems in Vibration Absorbers
A hydraulic system features a hydraulic cylinder, piston rod, and hydraulic fluid. The diagram below displays the components of a basic hydraulic system. Vibrations influence the piston rod, causing fluid movement inside the cylinder. This liquid converts kinetic energy resulting from vibrations into heat. An image of hydraulic shock absorbers detailing their parts is shown below.
Design Aspects of Vibration Absorbers
Effective vibration absorber designs involve several key considerations to ensure optimal functionality. Depending on system complexity, combining springs with rubber might be the most effective solution, while in other cases, a simple rubber mount suffices.
Rubber Mounts: Design Insights
Rubber mounts are crafted to dampen system vibrations by positioning them between components, like metals. They help diminish wear and tear, reducing maintenance costs. These mounts come in diverse shapes, sizes, and materials for varying applications.
Understanding Rubber Mount Deformation
Rubber mounts can deform under machinery load, and without proper design, they may deform rapidly. Finite element analysis may be necessary to ensure effective vibration control before installation. Shock loading significantly influences rubber mount deformation, as deformation extent relates to the applied load. Shock loads can be particularly harmful, affecting general vibrations. If a device or mount can withstand these shock loads, it is more likely to endure longer under mechanical vibrations.
Fabrication of Rubber Isolators: Insights
Rubber isolators, crucial for vibration absorption, typically combine springs and rubber. Both components contribute to dampening vibrations, enhancing performance. They are manufactured using various methods, like molding and extrusion. To boost isolator strength and performance, additives such as sulfur, urethane, peroxides, metallic oxides, and acetoxy silane may be added, depending on specific applications and manufacturer requirements.
Chapter 2: What is Damping in Vibration Absorbers?
This section thoroughly explores the concept of damping in vibration control systems. We’ll discuss the different types of damping and provide detailed insight into methods and technologies used for vibration damping in industrial machinery, equipment, and structural applications. Understanding these principles is essential for optimizing mechanical efficiency, enhancing product durability, and minimizing unwanted noise and vibrations in critical environments.
Types of Damping
Damping refers to the process of minimizing or eliminating unwanted oscillations, resonance, or vibrations from a mechanical system. Effective vibration damping solutions help control vibration amplitude, extend machinery life, and prevent structural fatigue or failure. Key damping phenomena include overdamping, underdamping, and critical damping, each with unique characteristics relevant to mechanical design, dynamic system analysis, and vibration mitigation strategies.
Light Damping
Light damping is characterized by oscillations that decay gradually over time, with energy dissipated at a slow rate. In such lightly damped systems, vibrations persist longer, with only a slow reduction in amplitude until equilibrium is eventually achieved. Real-world examples include a child swinging on a playground swing or a pendulum in a clock. In both cases, the motion continues back and forth before the amplitude lessens to zero due to air resistance and internal friction. The displacement-time graph below visually demonstrates the typical decay curve associated with light damping in mechanical systems.
Heavy Damping
Heavy damping, also known as overdamping, causes oscillations to settle slowly and smoothly without multiple crossings of the equilibrium position. Such systems display a rapid decrease in amplitude, and the motion stabilizes without significant rebounds. Typical examples include hydraulic door closers, which allow the door to return to the closed position gently and quietly, thus avoiding slamming and potential mechanical damage. The following graph illustrates the slower, yet non-oscillatory, transition to equilibrium that is characteristic of heavily damped mechanical or structural systems.
Critically Damped System
A critically damped system is optimized so that the response returns to equilibrium as quickly as possible without overshooting or oscillating. This is crucial in applications where fast stabilization is required to maintain performance and prevent component wear, such as in automotive suspension systems, industrial robots, and precision instruments. For instance, a car’s shock absorber aims to achieve critical damping so the suspension quickly returns to its stable position after driving over a bump, thus improving ride quality and road handling while minimizing component stress. The graph below showcases the unique non-oscillatory but rapid return to equilibrium of a critically damped system.
The following graph demonstrates the behavior of a critically damped system over time.
Types of Vibration Damping
Vibration damping is the process of absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy from sources such as mechanical oscillations, rotational motion, sound waves, and electromagnetic interference. Proper implementation of vibration control, shock absorption, and noise reduction technologies helps decrease the transmitted energy in a system, reducing risk of material fatigue, premature equipment failure, and unwanted noise pollution.
Mechanical engineers and facility managers employ several methods of vibration damping to protect sensitive equipment and comply with industry standards. Some key vibration damping techniques include:
Unconstrained Damping
This technique involves placing a specialized damping pad or isolator—typically made from elastomeric or viscoelastic materials—between moving or vibrating components (e.g., metal plates or machinery mounts). The pad flexes and compresses in response to movement, absorbing energy and converting it into heat—a process known as energy dissipation. Unconstrained damping is cost-effective and widely used for applications like HVAC systems, electronic enclosures, and general machinery to reduce vibration transmission and minimize structural noise.
Constrained Damping
Constrained layer damping (CLD) utilizes viscoelastic damping materials, such as Sorbothane, sandwiched between rigid layers (e.g., steel panels). This arrangement increases energy loss through shear deformation, enhancing vibration control in precision applications. Constrained damping solutions are favored in aerospace, automotive, and high-performance consumer electronics that require high levels of vibration suppression and acoustic noise control.
Tuned Viscoelastic Damping
Tuned viscoelastic damping targets specific vibration frequencies that might otherwise cause resonance, structural fatigue, or unwanted acoustic emissions. By selecting materials and configurations tailored to problematic frequency ranges, this approach provides highly effective vibration control. Sorbothane and similar advanced damping polymers are commonly used for custom-engineered solutions in sensitive environments, including semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices, and laboratory equipment. This method is ideal for engineers seeking precise performance for complex systems under variable dynamic loads.
Vibration Isolation
Vibration isolation is a critical aspect of vibration control engineering, designed to physically separate sensitive components or machinery from vibration sources. Advanced vibration isolation systems prevent destructive forces from reaching protected equipment, ensuring operational integrity, extending equipment lifespan, reducing structureborne sound, and minimizing occupational noise exposure. Vibration isolators are strategically installed between the vibration path and functional machinery, acting as barriers to mitigate risk.
Classification of Vibration Isolation
Vibration isolation technologies generally fall into these two categories:
Passive Vibration Isolation
Passive vibration isolation systems use mechanical components such as heavy-duty springs, rubber mounts, and specially formulated damping pads to reduce energy transmission between vibrating and non-vibrating parts. The passive isolator’s spring-mass-damper system determines the system’s natural frequency—a crucial variable for avoiding resonance in industrial, HVAC, and building applications. Damping materials further attenuate vibration amplitude, shielding sensitive machinery from structural vibrations and ensuring compliance with acoustic standards for industrial and commercial facilities.
Active Vibration Isolation
Active vibration isolation systems combine passive elements with electronics, including sensors, controllers, and electromagnetic actuators, for real-time vibration sensing and suppression. Microprocessors measure incoming vibration signals and calculate precise counteracting forces to neutralize vibrations instantly. This sophisticated approach is imperative for high-precision applications like semiconductor fabrication, electron microscopy, and advanced research labs where microvibrations could impact sensitive measurements or manufacturing tolerances. The CAD model below illustrates an active vibration isolation control system in action.
Key considerations for selecting and installing vibration isolators include:
- Overall size, weight, and load distribution of equipment to be isolated
- Nature, direction, and frequency of operational and environmental vibrations
- Equipment movement, mounting configuration, and attachment points
- Environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and chemical exposure
- Required operational pressures for air or hydraulic isolators
- Indoor vs. outdoor placement and protection from harsh elements
- Proximity to vibration-sensitive materials or equipment (machine location)
- Strategic placement of isolators within the vibration transmission path
- Correct isolator sizing—matched precisely to load and application for optimal vibration control
- Ease of adjustment and maintenance—ensuring springs or dampers can perform consistently without excessive preloading
Typical industrial and commercial uses for vibration isolators include:
- Industrial compressors, HVAC systems, process pumps, and heavy-duty machinery
- Automotive vehicles, aviation equipment, and marine vessels
- Aerospace satellite systems, precision scientific instruments, and electron microscopes
- Medical and laboratory equipment, electronics manufacturing, and sensitive measuring devices
- Building floor systems and architectural noise control structures
Choosing the correct vibration absorber, damper, or isolator is fundamental for achieving optimal vibration suppression, machinery protection, and long-term operational reliability. Top manufacturers of vibration control and damping products offer expert system design, on-site vibration testing, and custom damping solutions to address the specific challenges of each application. To learn more about leading vibration absorber suppliers and the latest innovations in the industry, refer to the following section.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
Chapter 3: What are the Types of Vibration Absorbers?
In this section, we will explore the diverse categories of vibration absorbers, also referred to as vibration isolators or vibration dampers, and highlight the most commonly used types in industrial, automotive, and commercial applications. Understanding how each absorber functions is essential for choosing the right solution for vibration control, shock absorption, and equipment protection.
Common Types of Vibration Absorbers
Below are some of the most frequently utilized types of vibration absorbers, each designed to address specific vibration frequencies, loads, and operational requirements. Selecting the optimal vibration isolator enhances operational efficiency, equipment longevity, and safety by minimizing the transmission of unwanted motion and structural resonance.
Air Springs
An air spring consists of air enclosed within a durable fabric and rubber envelope—often shaped like a bellows—to provide effective vibration isolation and load leveling. Air springs are commonly installed in automotive suspension systems, industrial machinery, and mass transit systems. Engineered for superior ride comfort and dynamic response, air springs continuously adjust the system’s height, lowering a vehicle at high speeds to improve aerodynamics and raising it on uneven terrain for better ground clearance. Compared to traditional air cylinders, air springs offer an exceptional stroke-to-compressed-height ratio and can utilize different actuation mediums, including water, air, and nitrogen. Their adaptability makes them ideal for noise reduction, dynamic load support, and vibration mitigation across demanding environments.
Bushings
Bushings are versatile mechanical vibration isolators that cushion the interface between two components, effectively absorbing and dampening vibrations, shocks, and noise at contact surfaces. These inserts are available in various materials and alloys, including stainless steel, brass, copper, bronze, and corrosion-resistant plated options. Most commonly, the steel used in bushing manufacturing is case-hardened and may feature end serrations for enhanced grip in high-torque or torsional-motion applications. The outer bushing ring often has a centerless ground diameter, making it ideal for press-fitted installation into a receiving bore or housing. Selecting the proper elastomer for the bushing—such as natural rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, or silicone—depends on the environmental conditions of the application, including exposure to oils, ozone, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation. Bushings are widely used in automotive suspensions, industrial machinery, HVAC equipment, and heavy-duty equipment to prolong service life, reduce vibration fatigue, and prevent wear and tear.
The diagram below illustrates the principle of vibration absorption using bushings.
Cam Follower
A cam follower, also called a track roller, is a specialized type of rolling-element bearing designed to follow the motion of a camshaft or linear track. Cam followers help minimize vibrations, oscillations, and noise caused by high-speed cam movement in mechanical systems. By enabling smooth tracking and absorbing dynamic loads, cam followers play a crucial role in preventing misalignments and reducing the risk of vehicle skidding or uneven mechanical wear in automation equipment, engines, and conveyors.
Dashpots
Dashpots are fluid-damping devices that generate resistance by forcing a piston through a viscous fluid, such as silicone oil. They serve to dissipate kinetic energy, control motion, and reduce oscillations in mechanical systems. Commonly found in precision instruments, control panels, automotive damping applications, and manufacturing machinery, dashpots offer reliable vibration attenuation, shock absorption, and controlled deceleration for sensitive components.
Helical Isolators
A helical isolator is a multidirectional wire rope assembly engineered to absorb and dampen both shock and vibration. The flexible steel cable construction provides resilience and flexibility, making these isolators ideal for protecting delicate electronics, avionics, and sensitive materials during transportation or operation in harsh industrial settings. Helical isolators perform exceptionally well under wide temperature fluctuations, corrosive conditions, and extreme mechanical stress, ensuring high vibration isolation levels in demanding environments.
Rubber Pads
Rubber pads, also known as anti-vibration pads or elastomeric vibration isolators, are specially manufactured rubber materials placed between equipment and mounting surfaces to absorb and dampen mechanical vibrations, impact forces, and noise. Some rubber pads feature ribbed or textured surfaces to prevent slippage and enhance grip. Available in numerous designs—including KHL, KH, KHS, RHS, and more—these pads can be selected based on load capacity, durometer (hardness), and specific vibration frequency requirements. Typical uses range from industrial machinery, HVAC units, and heavy-duty compressors to home appliances. Rubber pads are valued for their durability, ease of installation, and multi-axis vibration reduction capability.
Shock Absorbers
Shock absorbers are hydraulic or pneumatic devices engineered to absorb and dissipate kinetic energy, controlling movement and minimizing vibration and impact in vehicles and machinery. Primarily found in automotive suspension systems, motorcycles, industrial robots, and specialized transportation equipment, shock absorbers convert sudden shocks and oscillations into harmless heat, significantly improving ride comfort, machine stability, and equipment longevity.
Groups of Vibration Absorbers
Vibration absorbers are broadly divided into two primary categories: passive and active absorbers. Understanding the unique advantages and applications of each group is essential for optimal vibration management, whether for industrial noise control, vibration-sensitive instruments, or precision manufacturing.
Active Vibration Absorber
Active vibration absorbers are electrically powered systems equipped with advanced electronic components such as sensors, actuators, microprocessors, and controllers. These smart devices continuously monitor vibration frequencies, amplitudes, and dynamic forces impacting a system. Using real-time feedback and adaptive algorithms, active absorbers generate counteracting forces to neutralize or eliminate unwanted vibrations and structural noise. Active systems are extensively employed in aerospace, precision manufacturing, high-rise building design, and environments where high-frequency, variable vibrations must be precisely controlled. Their programmability allows for customized vibration suppression across a wide frequency range, thereby enhancing performance and occupant comfort.
Passive Vibration Absorbers
Passive vibration absorbers function without active monitoring or electronic intervention. Typically constructed from resilient materials like rubber, neoprene, dense cork foam, or steel springs, passive absorbers are designed to isolate equipment and structures from external vibrations. Common types include base isolators, anti-vibration pads, elastomer mounts, and spring isolators. Frequently used in industrial machinery, home appliances, HVAC systems, and vehicle components, passive absorbers offer reliable, maintenance-free vibration and noise reduction for medium to heavy loads. Their effectiveness is generally determined by their natural frequency—typically ranging from 3 to 40 Hertz—making them ideally suited to manage medium to high-frequency vibrations in heavy equipment, rotating machinery, and sensitive laboratory devices.
Choosing the appropriate type of vibration absorber requires careful consideration of several factors, including the source and frequency of the vibration, load capacity, environmental conditions, and long-term durability. Consulting with vibration control experts or manufacturers can help ensure the ideal solution for optimal noise reduction, enhanced safety, and extended equipment service life.
Chapter 4: What are the applications of vibration absorbers?
Vibration absorbers are highly useful in various mechanical systems, helping to prevent damage and reduce wear and tear on materials. They are generally cost-effective, making it advisable to use them in equipment subjected to vibrations and shaking. Below is a list of some common applications for vibration absorbers.
Machine Tools
A machine tool, such as a milling machine, lathe, grinder, or drilling machine, operates using power to shape, drill, or finish materials. These tools generate significant vibrations due to their rotating and moving components, including spindles, gears, motors, and accelerometers. Without adequate vibration absorption, these machines could potentially cause accidents or damage. The diagram below illustrates the parts of a lathe machine that are subject to high levels of vibration.
Overhead Power Transmission Lines
Overhead power transmission lines are electric cables suspended from poles or towers. These lines can experience vibrations due to various factors, including weather conditions like wind, storms, and rain, as well as the movement of electrical charge. The vibrations may sometimes be audible, resulting from the discharge of energy when the electric field strength on the conductors exceeds the breakdown strength of the surrounding air.
Engine Crankshaft Torsional Vibration
Torsional vibration in engines occurs due to the combined effect of angular oscillations, primarily resulting from components like the gearbox, crankshaft, and propeller shaft. To counteract these vibrations and ensure smoother operation, vibration absorbers such as engine mounts, rubber bumpers, and transmission mounts are employed. Without these absorbers, engines would be significantly less comfortable and practical to use.
Rubber Bumpers
Rubber bumpers, also referred to as rubber mounts, are designed to absorb vibrations from machinery and equipment. They protect equipment by damping vibrations and typically come in various shapes, with the most common being circular with a central hole. Some bumpers feature adhesive on one side for easy attachment to surfaces. These bumpers are widely used in applications such as between metal surfaces on doors and between floors and equipment. The selection of a rubber bumper depends on factors like environmental conditions, material type, equipment weight, and durability. For environments with moisture, silicon bumpers are recommended due to their water resistance, while nitrile bumpers are ideal for oily environments as they resist chemical reactions.
Engine Mounts
Engine mounts are vibration absorbers that are used to hold the engine together. They are made of rubber because rubber absorbs impact and vibrations. They are put between metals to avoid wear and tear between them. Some engine mounts are filled with liquid inside to enhance strength and in case they wear out, the liquid will start to leak. If they start leaking, it means maintenance or replacement should be done to them.
Transmission Mount
Similar to engine mounts, transmission mounts are designed to support and secure a vehicle's transmission system. They typically feature a metal plate for durability and a rubber bushing to absorb vibrations produced by the transmission during operation. The image below displays a basic transmission mount commonly used in vehicles.
Silent-Lign Pillow Blocks
Pillow blocks consist of an oil-resistant neoprene flexing medium combined with a continuously lubricated sleeve bearing, all housed in a welded steel mounting bracket that is stamped and coated with durable zinc trivalent plating. These pillow blocks can be used in various applications to:
- Minimize or stop vibrations
- Self-lubricate constantly
- Eliminate noise transmission
- Self-align
- Low profile clearances
Vibro-leveler Mounts
This shear mount made of rubber has a dual function: it minimizes noise and vibration transmission and supports precise machine leveling. Vibro-leveler mounts include:
- Easy and quick installation
- Designed with a fail safe
- Environmentally friendly
- Protect machinery from vibration and shock
- Minimize fatigue related to vibration and noise
Vibro-levelers feature a straightforward design and are generally built to be durable. They include a stud fixed to the inner cylinder and are insulated with rubber that is mechanically bonded.
Footbridge Structures
Footbridges often have slender designs, making them susceptible to damage from wind or vibrations caused by pedestrians. To prevent issues such as shaking or resonance-induced damage, these structures typically incorporate vibration absorbers to mitigate such effects.
Engine Pumps and Generators
Machines with rotating shafts, such as pumps and generators, generate vibrations that can impact other components or the surfaces they rest on, such as tables, floors, or bases. To address and mitigate these potential damages, vibration absorbers are installed to reduce or eliminate these disruptive effects.
Considerations when Selecting a Vibration Absorber
Several factors should be considered when choosing a vibration absorber, including:
Size and Weight of Absorbers
The size of the machine affects the vibration absorption requirements. Larger machines may need multiple mounts to handle vibrations effectively, while smaller machinery might only require a single mount to manage all vibrations. It is important to consider the weight of the equipment as a key factor before sourcing vibration absorbers.
Vibration Environment
Understanding the installation environment for a vibration absorber is crucial, as different materials respond differently to various conditions. For instance, absorbers designed for laboratory settings differ from those used in industrial applications. Some absorbers, intended for indoor use, may deteriorate when exposed to UV rays, compromising their effectiveness. Many rubber-based products, such as rubber pads and bumpers, are not resistant to chemicals and can be prone to damage.
Nature of Vibration
Understanding the nature of vibrations is essential. Key aspects include analyzing the frequency, amplitude, and direction of the vibrations. To measure these parameters accurately, tools like accelerometers are used, and it's recommended to consult a specialist for precise data. The amplitude's magnitude will indicate whether vibration isolation is needed. Additionally, knowing the vibration’s direction helps in positioning absorbers correctly. Incorrectly identifying the direction may result in ineffective vibration control, even if appropriate mounts are utilized.
Absorber Cost and Maintenance
Similar to other mechanical systems, vibration absorbers will need maintenance over time due to wear and tear. Additionally, expenses related to shipping, site surveys, and installation should also be factored into the overall cost.
Absorber Upkeep
Considerations should address questions such as: What will the maintenance costs be for the system with the chosen absorber? How straightforward is the replacement process for this absorber? Are there trained technicians available to service and maintain both the absorber and the overall system?
System Flexibility
This considers how the system will handle modifications if needed. An optimal system should offer enough flexibility to accommodate changes in absorber installation. However, if the absorber is designed perfectly, flexibility may not be a major concern.
Contact Surface of the Absorber
Determining which services or parts will interact is crucial for choosing the correct absorber for specific vibrations. Without detailed information about these contact points, there's a risk of causing damage to the system. Additionally, understanding the nature of these contact surfaces can help predict the lifespan and effectiveness of the absorber.
Lifespan of the Absorber
The lifespan of absorbers is influenced by a variety of factors, as outlined earlier. This is closely tied to cost considerations because typically, absorbers of higher quality are more durable and have a longer service life, assuming the system is well-designed.
Load on the System
It's crucial to understand the load that will be placed on the absorber before making a purchase. Heavier loads require more robust absorbers, while lighter loads can be managed with less substantial ones.
Conclusion
A vibration absorber is a single degree of freedom (DOF) spring-mass system that eliminates or reduces the vibration of a harmonically excited system such as the rotation of engines, motors, generators, belts, etc. to create a comfortable and safe environment. In selecting a vibration absorber for a particular use, it is critical to understand the type and application of the different vibration absorbers.
