Product Review

Isolate It! Sorbothane acoustic and vibration isolation thin films are versatile anti-vibration pads that can be used on many different applications. The unique Sorbothane ultra-soft urethane is a durable, resilient, polymer that provides outstanding vibration isolation and non-skid properties. Sorbothane isolators help absorb impact and noise and have excellent resistance to aging; they will not harden or crack over time. They feature a smooth, clean, black urethane surface. Use them on any audio and electronic equipment to prevent skipping and interference.

More is not better. A large lightly loaded sheet will have a high spring rate and will not deflect enough to provide good isolation. Over compression will lead to short service life. The proper compression range is 3 to 20 per cent depending on the "Shape Factor." Shape factor is the ratio of contact surface (one side) divided by perimeter area. Geometry matters. Small circular pieces and rings "bulge" better than squares and rectangles. "Bulgeability" makes for better isolation. Use many small discs rather than a few large rectangles for best vibration isolation performance. Thickness matters. The thicker the sheet the lower the natural frequency. You need a sheet at least one-inch thick to get your natural frequency down to 10 Hertz. (10 Hertz is your target natural frequency for a 900 RPM motor.) Use the natural tackiness of Sorbothane or apply 3M #80 Spray adhesives to glue the Sorbothane to metal, plastic and other surfaces. This sheet is perfect for cutting to meet the needs of special applications or can be used whole. Can be but using a sharp utility knife or scissor. Apply sheet as a whole or use to coat the inside of speakers or equipment housings to provide sound insulation. 1 cm of Sorbothane can isolate up to 40 dB of sound

Caution: This product contains plasticizer which may cause minor discoloration to wood, plastic, composite and other materials following prolonged contact.