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Sizing Industrial Shock Absorbers for Swinging Mass Under Applied Force

When a mass swings under the effect of an external applied force—such as an arm on a rotary actuator or a pendulum driven by a motor—it generates kinetic energy that must be safely absorbed at the end of its motion. At Shockbuffer, we offer expert industrial shock absorber selection and precise sizing of shock absorbers for these swinging applications to ensure gentle deceleration and protect sensitive machine parts. Our miniature industrial shock absorbers are designed to handle fast, repetitive movements of small swinging masses, improving safety, reducing noise, and extending equipment life. Choosing the right shock absorber for machinery is critical for stable and reliable operation.

Formulae

E1= W · v  · 0.5 = 0.5 · I · ω

E2 = (T · s) / R

E3 = E1 + E2

E4 = E3 · c

vD = (v · R) / L = ω · R

We = (2 · E3) / vD

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Example: Sizing Industrial Shock Absorbers for Swinging Mass Under Applied Force

W = 20 kg

v = 0.8 m/s

T = 40 Nm

R = 500 mm

L = 1000 mm

c = 750/hr

s = 0.013 m

E1 = 20 · 0.8 · 0.5 = 6.4 Nm

E2 = (40 · 0.013) / 0.5 = 1.3 Nm

E3 = 6.4 + 1.3 = 7.7 Nm

E4 = 7.7 · 750= 5775 Nm/hr

vD = (0.8 · 0.5) / 1 = 0.4 m/s

We = (2 · 7.7) / 0.8  = 96 kg

Swinging mass with propelling force

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Applications of Industrial Shock Absorbers

 

Typical shock absorber applications in this category include:

  • Small pivoting arms driven by pneumatic or electric rotary actuators

  • Swing gates or flaps on sorting systems that open and close quickly

  • Light pendulums in testing or inspection equipment

  • Rotary pick-and-place devices with short arm lengths and rapid cycles

  • Oscillating chutes or guides that direct parts into position

  • Automated levers or pushers with controlled end-of-travel deceleration

 

In each case, a miniature industrial shock absorber must be carefully sized to absorb the swinging mass’s kinetic energy, ensuring smooth stops and protecting mechanical components from shock and wear.

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