Glossary · Automation fundamentals, platforms and components
Vibration damper
Also known as: Vibration isolator, Anti-vibration mount
German: Schwingungsdämpfer
In mechanical engineering, a vibration damper is a component that reduces vibrations by dissipating vibration energy, for example through elastomer, hydraulic or friction elements, or isolates a machine or component from vibrations of its surroundings.
- Automation components
In one sentence
A vibration damper reduces vibrations by dissipating their energy or isolates machines and components from vibration sources.
Example
The control cabinet on the press frame is mounted on elastomer vibration dampers to protect the electronics from shock and vibration.
How it applies
- Engineering: Dampers and isolators are selected by load, excitation frequencies and required isolation. A poorly matched isolator can amplify vibration near resonance instead of reducing it.
- Safety and health: Vibration transmitted to operators through handles, seats or floors is a Vibration hazard that the risk assessment must address; reduction at the source comes before protective measures.
- Documentation: Installation instructions specify mounting, type and number of dampers, and machine documentation states emitted vibration values where required. Maintenance manuals include inspection and replacement intervals, since elastomers age.
Damping vs. isolation
Damping converts vibration energy into heat and reduces amplitudes, especially near resonance. Isolation prevents vibration from being transmitted between a source and its surroundings. Many components provide both to some extent.