Rubber dampers (or vibration isolators) are elastic components used to absorb shocks, minimize noise, and reduce mechanical vibrations in machinery, vehicles, and electronics. By acting as a flexible buffer between hard surfaces, they prevent kinetic energy from transferring and causing structural wear or fatigue.
How They Work
Rubber dampers absorb energy through elastic deformation (compression, tension, or shear) rather than transferring it to rigid metal connections.
The most common types include:
Bobbin Mounts / Cylindrical Isolators: Threaded studs or inserts molded into a rubber cylinder, commonly used for motors, compressors, and water pumps.
Isolation Pads: Flat rubber sheets or squares placed under heavy machinery (e.g., HVAC units, air compressors) to prevent floor vibrations. [1, 2, 3
Bumper Stops: Used as end-stops in automation or transportation to absorb impact forces and prevent metal-on-metal clashing. [1, 2, 3]