Shock Mounts
Shock mounts isolate and absorb the kinetic energy created by oscillatory mechanical components. Vibration control devices are installed in mechanical devices to reduce the noise pollution and physical wear otherwise caused by continuous vibration. Inevitably, almost all devices that facilitate motion create noise and friction as a byproduct of the process.
Shock mounts serve to minimize these byproducts to improve the comfort of users as well as enhance the effectiveness of machine usage thereby promoting productivity.
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Applications of Shock Mounts
Also known as shock absorbers, these varied devices are found in industrial, commercial, and even residential settings. Automotive, manufacturing, transportation, heating, cooling, and even recording industries utilize the benefits of shock mounts in products ranging from radiators, vibratory finishing equipment, automotive engines, and high quality microphones. The wide array of uses for shock absorbers necessitates a variety of options, but the basic function remains the same. Shock mounts of any kind must provide either the cushion space necessary to stop motion from reaching the other elements or provide the corresponding level of energy absorption. Brushings are an example of a device that uses compression and decompression to contain movement whereas rubber pads use materials capable of absorbing the kinetic energy. No matter the particular style, shock mounts are vital to the longevity of vibratory machines as they reduce the wear and tear that often lead to equipment malfunction and decreased production.
Shock Mount Design and Customization
Industrial shock mounts utilize several different designs to reduce noise and vibration. Often, more than one particular style of mount is used in a single mechanism to achieve maximum vibration damping. Hysteretic, hydraulic, elastomeric, and pneumatic are the most commonly used types of vibration absorbers. The variable techniques reflect the range of applications in which shock mounts are used. Devices such as these may be used to attach small instruments to panels or to attach large machine components to an engine. Therefore not only the design, but the size, body, and absorption materials are important to take into account when selecting the most capable mount for a given application. Common measurements include length, diameter, and maximum force. As some use pumps, pistons, and rods, it is essential to consider the length of a device when fully extended.
Brass, steel, stainless steel, bronze, copper, and some thermoplastics are commonly used for their ability to withstand near constant wear. Rubber, however, is the most prevalent material used in the production of vibration isolators. Neoprene, silicone, and EPDM are common types of rubber found in shock mounts due to their ability to absorb kinetic energy and diffuse it as heat. Often, the body is composed of metals, while the absorbing component is made of rubber. Manufacturing techniques vary widely depending upon the materials used as well as the method of shock absorption.