Machines that run hard also shake hard. That vibration causes noise, wear, fatigue—and even structural damage. So how do you keep things running smoothly and quietly? The answer is anti-vibration mounts.
Anti-vibration mounts are flexible components—usually made of rubber or elastomer—that isolate and absorb vibration and shock between equipment and its mounting surface. They reduce noise, protect machines, and improve stability.
I once helped a client whose floor-mounted motor was vibrating so badly it cracked tiles. We added anti-vibration mounts under the base, and just like that—the noise dropped, the floor stayed intact, and the motor lasted longer.
What is the function of anti-vibration mounts?
Anti-vibration mounts do more than just hold equipment in place.
Their main function is to reduce the transmission of vibration, impact, and noise from machines to surrounding structures—or from external shocks to sensitive equipment.
Core functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Vibration isolation1 | Separates machine motion from the mounting base |
| Shock absorption2 | Cushions sudden force or mechanical impact |
| Noise reduction3 | Minimizes humming, buzzing, or rattling |
| Load support4 | Bears the static and dynamic weight of equipment |
| Protection5 | Extends life of machinery, reduces fatigue or cracks |
In simple terms, anti-vibration mounts act like shock absorbers—flattening the “peaks” of movement that would otherwise spread to floors, walls, or connected parts.
Where are anti-vibration mounts used?
From industrial plants to passenger vehicles, these mounts are everywhere machines move or vibrate.
Anti-vibration mounts are used in engines, generators, compressors, fans, HVAC systems, pumps, CNC machines, home appliances, and sensitive electronics.
Common applications
| Industry/Application | Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Engine mounts6, exhaust hangers | Reduce engine and road vibration |
| Industrial machinery7 | Pumps, motors, presses, conveyors | Protect equipment and operators |
| HVAC | Fan units, blowers, chillers | Lower operational noise |
| Power generation | Diesel generators, turbines | Reduce foundation vibration |
| Electronics8 | Hard drives, lab devices | Isolate from fine vibrations |
| Home/office appliances | Washing machines, compressors | Improve comfort, reduce noise |
We often ship EPDM9 or NBR anti-vibration mounts to customers in the EU for use in machinery, generators, and HVAC systems10 where vibration control is a must.
What materials are used for anti-vibration mounts?
The secret behind a good mount is the rubber.
Most anti-vibration mounts are made from rubber compounds like natural rubber (NR), neoprene (CR), EPDM, nitrile (NBR), or silicone—each selected for specific vibration, temperature, or chemical resistance requirements.
| Material | Best For |
|---|---|
| Natural rubber11 | General vibration damping, indoor use |
| EPDM9 | Weather resistance, outdoor HVAC |
| Nitrile (NBR)12 | Oil resistance, automotive13 and engines |
| Neoprene (CR)14 | Flame resistance, industrial equipment |
| Silicone15 | High/low temperature stability |
At Julong Rubber, we help customers select the right rubber compound and hardness (durometer) to match the equipment’s weight and vibration frequency.
What types of anti-vibration mounts are available?
Anti-vibration mounts come in many forms—some small and simple, others designed for heavy loads.
Popular types include cylindrical mounts, cone mounts, sandwich mounts, bushings, machine feet, isolator pads, and custom-molded designs.
| Type | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Cylindrical mounts16 | Motors, blowers, small compressors |
| Cone mounts | Engines, heavy-duty machinery |
| Sandwich mounts | Fans, presses, rotating equipment |
| Bushings | Vehicles, pivot joints |
| Rubber feet/pads17 | Appliances, lab devices, office machines |
Each mount must match load, frequency, size, and environmental exposure. That’s why I always ask for technical drawings or working conditions before recommending a solution.
Conclusion
Anti-vibration mounts isolate machines from the vibration, noise, and shock they generate—protecting equipment, improving safety, and creating quieter, more stable environments. The right rubber mount is small but powerful, making a big difference in performance and comfort.
-
Understanding vibration isolation can help you choose the right solutions for your machinery. ↩
-
Explore the principles of shock absorption to enhance the performance and longevity of your equipment. ↩
-
Learn about noise reduction techniques to create a quieter and more efficient work environment. ↩
-
Discover the significance of load support in maintaining equipment stability and safety. ↩
-
Find out how protection from vibrations can extend the life of your machinery and reduce maintenance costs. ↩
-
Explore this link to discover various engine mount types and their effectiveness in reducing vibrations. ↩
-
Explore this resource to learn effective strategies for optimizing anti-vibration mounts in industrial settings. ↩
-
Explore this link to discover how anti-vibration mounts enhance the performance and longevity of sensitive electronic devices. ↩
-
Explore this link to understand how EPDM enhances vibration control and its specific applications in various industries. ↩ ↩
-
Understanding their role can help improve HVAC efficiency and reduce noise. ↩
-
Explore the advantages of natural rubber for effective vibration damping in various applications. ↩
-
Explore this link to understand how Nitrile (NBR) enhances vibration control and its specific applications in various industries. ↩
-
Explore this resource to understand how anti-vibration mounts enhance vehicle performance and comfort. ↩
-
Explore this link to understand how Neoprene (CR) enhances vibration control and flame resistance in industrial applications. ↩
-
Explore this link to understand how silicone enhances vibration control and durability in various applications. ↩
-
Learn about cylindrical mounts to find the best solutions for your specific machinery needs. ↩
-
Explore this link to understand how rubber feet/pads enhance stability and reduce noise in various applications. ↩
