Unlike a simple rigid rubber mount, an air damping vibration isolator uses controlled airflow inside its internal structure to generate damping.

When the supported equipment moves vertically due to vibration or shock, the elastic element compresses and rebounds. During this movement, air passes through internal air passages or damping orifices. The resulting airflow resistance dissipates part of the vibration energy and controls excessive oscillation.

This combination of elastic support and air damping provides both vibration isolation and shock cushioning.

The natural frequency of an isolation system is an important factor in determining its performance. In general, larger static deflection allows a lower natural frequency, helping the isolator reduce the transmission of low-frequency vibration. Damping is particularly important around the resonance region because it helps control excessive movement.

Vibration isolators do not simply “remove” vibration. Their performance depends on the relationship between the excitation frequency of the equipment or vehicle and the natural frequency of the isolation system.

A properly selected low-frequency vibration isolator can significantly reduce vibration transmitted from the mounting base to sensitive equipment once the operating frequency is sufficiently above the isolator’s natural frequency.

This characteristic is particularly useful for vehicle-mounted systems, where vibration can originate from:

• Diesel and gasoline engines
• Vehicle suspension systems
• Rough road surfaces
• Off-road driving
• Transmission and drivetrain vibration
• Cooling fans and auxiliary motors
• Sudden braking or acceleration
• Transportation shock
• Loading and unloading impact

Correct load selection is essential.

The total equipment weight should first be divided according to the actual load carried by each mounting point. For example, a 40 kg electronic cabinet supported by four isolators does not necessarily mean exactly 10 kg per isolator. If the center of gravity is offset, individual mounting-point loads may be different.

For accurate selection, it is recommended to provide:

Equipment total weight, number of mounting points, load distribution, equipment dimensions, center of gravity, vibration frequency or RPM, expected shock conditions, installation orientation, and mounting-hole dimensions.

The selected isolator should operate within its recommended load range while maintaining sufficient static deflection and installation clearance.

Yes. This is one of its important application areas. Vehicle electronics may experience continuous vibration from engines, road surfaces, suspension systems, and drivetrain components, together with occasional shock loads caused by potholes, braking, transportation, or off-road operation. A properly selected air damping isolator helps separate sensitive electronic equipment from these vibration sources while controlling movement through its damping mechanism.

Typical equipment includes communication cabinets, radar electronics, navigation units, RF modules, electronic control cabinets, test instruments, data acquisition systems, monitoring equipment, mobile computers, signal processors, power electronic modules, and other precision electrical equipment. Selection should always be based on actual equipment weight, mounting arrangement, vibration conditions, and required shock protection.

No. Total weight is only the starting point. The actual load distribution at each mounting position is more important. Equipment with an offset motor, transformer, battery pack, power supply, or other heavy component may have significantly different loads at each mounting point. The vibration frequency, shock environment, number of isolators, center of gravity, and mounting orientation should also be considered.