What Is the Best Material for Isolator Pad Construction?

Vibration’s Affect on Systems

Vibration is present in all systems to some extent or other. Minute vibrations are created by actions as simple as taking a step or bending your elbow. However, in larger systems, those vibrations can become very problematic. For instance, consider the vibrations caused by a centrifuge used in a medical facility. The machine spins rapidly, creating a considerable amount of vibration. However, if that vibration were to go unchecked, it would eventually compromise the device’s performance and interfere with test results. Materials for isolator pad construction can greatly aid in reducing vibration within systems.

Isolator Pads vs. Dampers

Vibration isolator pads do a different job than dampers. Dampers are responsible for eliminating mechanical energy within a system. In essence, they eliminate vibrations once they have started. However, isolator pads work before vibrations really get started. They keep the natural frequencies of a system to a lower level, reducing the problems of vibration. Obviously, this is a very important role, and the best materials possible should be chosen for the job. In many instances, metal springs and rubber bushings are used as isolators. However, this is not necessarily the right combination, as both materials have some problems.

The Unique Properties of Sorbothane

Sorbothane, a unique blend of viscoelastic polymers, offers much better operation for isolator pad construction, and can also be used to manufacture vibration dampers and shock absorbers for use in numerous different applications. Sorbothane is quite a bit different from other materials traditionally used to reduce vibrations. For instance, it has a much wider range of operable temperatures than rubber or silicone. It is also far longer lived than foam products, or even natural or synthetic rubber. In addition, Sorbothane offers a good damping coefficient.

A Wide Durometer Range

In addition, those in need of isolator pad materials will find that Sorbothane is available in more than one durometer, which is a measure of hardness. Sorbothane is softer than most other materials used to create isolator pads, measured on the 00 Shore scale. Rubber, on the other hand, usually uses the A or D scale. Of course, this material is available with different durometer ratings to meet the demands of different operating environments and vibration isolation needs.

Sorbothane as an Ideal Isolator Solution

For those in need of the best possible material for isolator pad construction, Sorbothane is an ideal solution. This material can provide considerable benefits and suffers none of the drawbacks found with traditional materials used for the purpose. Interested in learning more about Sorbothane’s isolator pads? Contact us today to learn more.