Elastomer mounting

• The spring function is generated by the elastomer’s own elasticity, as well as the mount’s geometry.

• The shock absorption function is the result of friction relative to the elastomer’s viscosity.

• Knowledge about, and control over, these two functions with linear behaviour (elastic force proportional to the movement, and braking force proportional to the speed) guarantee close control of the performance characteristics.

From a purely mechanical perspective, the main difference between the elastomer mounting and the wire rope isolator is in terms of the laws of behaviour. The viscoelastic model cannot be applied to the wire rope isolator because, in it, the elastic force is non-linear and the braking force involves Coulomb damping (shock absorption via dry friction).

The elastomer mounting will therefore prove to be extremely useful when it is necessary to filter vibrations which have a level that is insufficient for overcoming the wire rope isolator’s dry friction component. In particular, this is illustrated in the case of isolation of the solidborne sound transmitted by rotating machinery (generator sets, pumps, motors, compressors, turbines, fan units, etc.).

Elastomer mountings do however remain susceptible to environmental conditions (temperature >70°C, presence of fluids or corrosive gases such as acids, bases, oils, petroleum, ozone, chlorine, etc.) because these make a major contribution to the acceleration of ageing and the breakdown of the material. Furthermore, creep effects (the deformation experienced by a material when it is subjected to a constant constraint) may be accentuated.

4 standard families of elastomer mountings are available from the Socitec catalogue :

- Naval Range
- Transport Range:
- 19-inch Container Range:
- Schwingmetall Range (ContiTech)