PRESSURE OPTIMISED VISCOELASTIC VIBRATION AND IMPACT INSULATION

Abstract

Within this contribution we present recently published findings [1] on the new way of utilizing polymeric materials for vibration damping. We present and demonstrate patented dissipative bulk and granular systems technology [2], based on which we have developed granular damping elements (GDE). The damping elements consist of granular viscoelastic material encapsulated and pressurized within a woven container made of basalt, carbon, and/or glass fibres. The hydrostatic pressure changes material properties and consequently the performance of the vibration isolation. Within this contribution, properties of three TPU materials in solid state are investigated, which after granulation are potential candidates for producing new GDE damping elements. We have demonstrated that for the case of TPU materials the stiffness and energy absorption capability of insulation may be increased between 10 to 100 times.