Vibration Dynamic Absorbers

Vibration dynamic absorbers (VDAs) are mechanical devices designed to reduce or eliminate unwanted vibrations in various systems or structures. They work by adding a secondary mass, spring, or damper to the system, which is tuned to counteract the vibrations of the primary system.

Here’s how they typically function:

1. Absorption of Vibrations: VDAs are designed to resonate at a specific frequency that matches the vibration frequency of the primary system. When this happens, the VDA effectively “absorbs” the vibrational energy, reducing the amplitude of the vibrations in the main structure.

2. Counteracting Forces: The secondary mass or damper in the VDA generates forces that are out of phase with the unwanted vibrations. This out-of-phase force cancels out the vibrations, stabilising the system.

3. Application Across Systems: VDAs are used in a variety of applications, from large industrial machinery and buildings to smaller devices like engines and precision instruments. They are particularly useful in situations where reducing vibration is critical to the longevity and performance of the equipment, such as in pumps, bearings, and rotating machinery.

4. Tuning for Specific Issues: VDAs can be customised and tuned to target specific vibrational issues, such as resonant frequencies that cause excessive wear or noise, or in situations where certain parts of a machine are prone to damage from sustained vibrations.

When the cost to correct the root cause can run into millions of pounds for a new structural and system modifications, the JPS Reliability team steps in to address these critical reliability issues. Our focus is on enhancing performance and extending the lifespan of your assets.

A key component of our cost-effective solution is the installation of vibration dynamic absorbers (VDAs). These absorbers are specifically designed to tackle challenges like repeat bearing failures, including false Brinelling—a common issue in stationary bearings subjected to vibration or load. By counteracting these vibrations, the absorbers prevent damage and significantly extend the equipment’s operational life.

In essence, vibration dynamic absorbers are a preventive and corrective solution used to manage and mitigate the negative effects of vibrations, enhancing the reliability and lifespan of various mechanical and structural systems.

Vibration dynamic absorbers are not a new concept—they have been a part of engineering solutions for many years. However, JPS Reliability leverages over 24 years of real-world experience in condition monitoring, reliability, and maintenance to enhance the effectiveness of VDAs, creating a tailored solution for your needs.

In the above video, you’ll see the dynamic absorbers in action even while the pump is not rotating. This demonstrates their effectiveness in dissipating or counteracting vibrational energy, stabilising the system, and reducing the risk of further issues, even when the pump is stationary.

If you have a problem, and if you can find them, maybe you could hire the JPS Reliability team.