Anti-vibration parts
Choose an isolator from the load path, not from appearance.
Effective isolation depends on the equipment, excitation, load at each mounting point, required deflection, surrounding connections and installation limits. A mount that fits physically can still perform poorly when it is overloaded, underloaded or bypassed by a rigid connection.
Isolation decision path
Four questions define the first useful comparison
What creates the vibration?
Identify rotating speed, reciprocating motion, impact, imbalance or an external disturbance.
What does each mount carry?
Use actual support-point loads where possible; total equipment weight may not divide equally.
What movement is acceptable?
Deflection, stability, start-up motion and restraint requirements influence the isolator route.
What can bypass the mount?
Rigid pipework, conduit, stops, bolts or insufficient clearance can transmit vibration around it.
Rubber or spring
Different mechanisms suit different operating conditions
The choice is not simply “light equipment versus heavy equipment.” Review disturbance frequency, desired deflection, load stability, environment, available height and the need for lateral control or restraint.
Rubber isolators
- Compact construction with inherent damping
- Useful where limited movement and robust support are priorities
- Rubber compound and hardness must suit load and environment
- Performance changes when compressed outside the intended range
Spring isolators
- Greater deflection can support lower-frequency isolation
- Requires attention to stability, clearance and lateral movement
- May need housings, restraints or levelling features
- Flexible connections around the equipment remain important
Information for review
Load distribution is often the missing input
Motors, pumps, offset centers of gravity and connected equipment can produce different reactions at each support point. When individual loads are unknown, provide the base layout, total weight and component locations so the distribution can be reviewed.
Type, speed, operating condition and base arrangement
Quantity, position, available height and fixing method
Temperature, oils, water, corrosion and outdoor exposure
Pipes, ducts, cables, stops and other possible vibration paths
Continue the technical review
Use the page that matches your next decision
Buyer questions
Questions that prevent common selection errors
Can total machine weight be divided equally by the number of mounts?
Only when the center of gravity and support geometry make the reactions approximately equal. Offset motors, tanks, driven equipment or uneven frames can load the mounts differently.
Does a softer isolator always provide better isolation?
No. Greater deflection may improve isolation for some frequencies, but the mount must remain stable, carry the actual load and allow safe movement within the installation.
Why can vibration remain after new mounts are installed?
Possible causes include incorrect loading, rigid pipework, insufficient clearance, transport restraints left engaged, imbalance or structural resonance. The installation path must be checked rather than assuming the mount alone is the cause.
Isolation review
Share the equipment and support arrangement.
Send the equipment type, speed, total weight, support layout, available height, environment and any known vibration issue. RELIA can help structure the remaining selection questions.
