Wire rope ties down shock and vibration

Sept. 21, 2000
More and more, equipment manufacturers are designing miniature electronics into their machines. However, when these machines are used in harsh environments, sensitive electronics often cannot withstand ongoing shock and vibration.

The electronic components must be isolated. Existing solutions, such as elastomeric mounts, can withstand vibration but are limited in their response to shock inputs. Additionally, elastomers may not be able to withstand certain chemicals and temperature extremes. That's why engineers from Enidine Inc., Orchard Park, N.Y., developed the SteelPaw Compact Rope Isolator Series.

Smaller than traditional wire rope isolators, these new devices handle simultaneous shock and vibration attenuation. Their small size allows for isolating individual components rather than the entire system.

Here's how they work. As the isolators deflect under load, the wire cable bends, creating a spring force which offers protective support. When the multistrand wire cable flexes, it creates friction between the wire strands which converts the kinetic energy into thermal energy (heat), dissipating the energy created by the vibration or impact.

Several heights, widths, and cable diameters are available to accommodate different load capacities. And, with just two mounting points, as opposed to traditional isolators with four mounting points, the new units are said to be easy to install. Because the Compact Rope Isolators use aluminum bars and stainless-steel wire rope, they are corrosion resistant and can operate consistently at temperatures ranging from -150 to 500*F. The isolators are not only suitable for harsh environments but also lightweight applications such as disk drives, medical equipment, mobile electronics, small pumps and motors, and avionics equipment.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!