What is the primary purpose of a vibration isolator?
a) Increase vibration b) Decrease vibration c) Maintain constant frequency d) Change phase angle
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b) Decrease vibration.
A vibration isolator is a device used to minimize or reduce the transmission of vibrations from one surface or object to another. These devices are commonly used in mechanical, electrical, and structural systems where vibrations can lead to damage, discomfort, or operational inefficiency. The primary goal of vibration isolators is to absorb or dissipate the energy from the vibrations and prevent them from propagating to other parts of the system.
Vibration isolation works by introducing a medium or mechanism between two objects that can decouple the source of the vibration from the sensitive or receiving system. This is usually achieved by using materials with specific properties that can absorb or redirect vibrational energy. Common examples of vibration isolators include rubber pads, springs, foam, or specialized elastomers. These materials are selected based on their ability to dampen or reduce the amplitude of oscillations without allowing them to transfer to the equipment or structure that needs to remain stable.
For example, in mechanical systems like compressors, engines, or machinery, the vibration isolator is placed between the equipment and the foundation to reduce the transmission of vibrations to the building or surrounding structures. In buildings and vehicles, isolators are used to reduce the effects of external vibrations such as traffic or machinery.
By minimizing these vibrations, the vibration isolator helps reduce wear and tear on mechanical components, minimizes noise, enhances comfort, and improves the overall longevity and performance of the system. Therefore, the primary purpose is to decrease vibration, not increase it, maintain a constant frequency, or change the phase angle of the vibrations.