Shock Absorbers & Dampers
Every moving axis has to stop. Shock absorbers turn that stop from a bang into a controlled deceleration — protecting product, machine and cycle time.
What are shock absorbers & dampers?
An industrial shock absorber converts the kinetic energy of a moving load into heat through metered hydraulic flow, decelerating it smoothly over its stroke. Dampers do the same for slower motions (doors, lids), and urethane bumpers give simple cushioned end stops. Correct sizing uses the moving mass and impact speed.
Types of shock absorbers & dampers
Miniature shock absorbers
Threaded-body hydraulic units for pick-and-place and small actuators.
Adjustable shock absorbers
Tunable orifice for varying loads.
Rotary / linear dampers
Controlled slow motion for doors, lids and trays.
Urethane bumpers & stoppers
Simple elastic end stops for light impacts.
How to select shock absorbers & dampers
- Moving mass and impact velocity → energy per cycle.
- Cycles per minute → total energy per hour capacity.
- Stroke available for deceleration.
- Thread/body size for the mounting.
Not sure? Send what you have — a part number, drawing or photo — and our engineering team will confirm the selection.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I size a shock absorber?
- From the moving mass, impact speed and any propelling force, calculate the energy per impact and per hour, then choose a unit rated above both with a stroke that fits the available space. Send these values with your enquiry and we confirm the selection.
- When is a urethane bumper enough?
- For light masses, low speeds and infrequent impacts a urethane stop is simple and cheap. Once energy or cycle rate rises — or the stop must be quiet and controlled — a hydraulic shock absorber pays for itself in machine life.
Related components
Gas Springs
Gas springs deliver full force from the very start of the stroke — something no mechanical spring can do — which is why modern forming dies rely on them.
Die Springs
Die springs pack maximum force into a standard hole — rectangular wire and controlled stress make them the force standard in press tools.
Casters
Casters put equipment on wheels — chosen right, they roll easily, lock firmly and survive the floor and load they live on.
Need shock absorbers & dampers?
Tell us the specification, quantity and application — or just send the drawing.