Shock isolation

(mechanical engineering) The application of isolators to alleviate the effects of shock on a mechanical device or system.

The application of isolators to alleviate the effects of shock on a mechanical device or system. The term shock generally denotes suddenness, either in the application of a force or in the inception of a motion. See also Shock wave.

Shock isolation is accomplished by storing energy in a resilient medium (isolator, cushion, and so on) and releasing it at a slower rate. The effectiveness of an isolator depends upon the duration of the shock impact.

Rubber is the most common material used in commercial shock isolators. Rubber isolators are generally used where the shock forces are created through small displacements. For larger displacement shock forces, such as those experienced by shipping containers in rough handling conditions, thick cushions of felt, rubberized hair, sponge rubber, cork, or foam plastics are used.

The shock load must be divided between the case, the shock cushion, and the equipment. The case, since it must withstand effects of rough handling such as sliding and dropping, is by necessity rigid. The more rigid the case the closer to a 1:1 ratio will be the transfer of the shock from outside to inside. The absorption of the shock is primarily between the cushion and the equipment. See also Damping; Shock absorber; Spring (machines); Vibration damping.