All moving objects possess kinetic energy. The amount of energy is dependent upon weight and velocity. A mechanical device that produces forces diametrically opposed to the direction of motion must be used to bring a moving object to rest.
Rubber bumpers and springs, although very inexpensive, have an undesirable recoil effect. Most of the energy absorbed by these at impact is actually stored. This stored energy is returned to the load, producing rebound and the potential for damage to the load or machinery. Rubber bumpers and springs initially provide low resisting force which increases with the stroke.
Cylinder cushions are limited in their range of operation. Most often they are not capable of absorbing energy generated by the system. By design, cushions have a relatively short stroke and operate at low pressures resulting in very low energy absorption. The remaining energy is transferred to the system, causing shock loading and vibration.
Shock absorbers provide controlled, predictable deceleration. These products work by converting kinetic energy to thermal energy. More specifically, motion applied to the piston of a hydraulic shock absorber pressurizes the fluid and forces it to flow through restricting orifices, causing the fluid to heat rapidly. The thermal energy is then transferred to the cylinder body and harmlessly dissipated to the atmosphere.
|
