Snubbers (Pneumatic Shock Absorbers)

Snubbers (Pneumatic Shock Absorbers)

At the end of the stroke of your mechanism If on trolled deceleration is required, then the Airpot snubber configuration is particularly useful. It performs push damping only and the push rod is not connected to the work. Airpot snubbers provide a wide range of low to moderate energy applications in which accurate control of impact, damping or shock absorption is required. The devices accomplish this by using the piston to force ambient air through an adjustable orifice at a controlled rate to dissipate kinetic energy and reduce impact, noise and wear. Airpot’s snubbers are designed in a special way which provides unparalleled energy dissipation accuracy by eliminating friction from their working elements. The materials which are used have built-in lubricity, high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent stability under temperature/humidity extremes, close coefficients of thermal expansion, and non-deteriorating performance due to age or non-use. The basic parts are a graphitized carbon piston, precision ground to millionths of an inch TIR inside an annealed, borosilicate glass cylinder with a precision fire-polished bore. Airpot snubbers are available in 4 bore sizes ranging from 0.627” to 1.75” and strokes lengths of 1.1” to 2.3”.

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Pneumatic shock absorbers, often referred to as snubbers, play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of rapid or unpredictable motion in equipment. By converting kinetic energy into a damped, controlled movement using air as the working fluid, they safeguard sensitive machinery and enhance overall system stability.

Key Applications:
- Industrial Machinery & Automation: In production lines and automated systems, snubbers absorb the energy from sudden starts, stops, and vibrations. This protects precision components and minimizes wear, decreasing machine downtime and maintenance costs.
- Piping Systems & Fluid Control: In systems prone to rapid pressure changes—such as pipelines or valve assemblies—snubbers help control water hammer or pressure surges. This damping action ensures the structural integrity of the system and prolongs its service life.
- Automotive & Heavy Equipment: During sudden deceleration or impact events in vehicles and heavy machinery, pneumatic shock absorbers moderate the forces transmitted to critical parts. This not only enhances component longevity but also contributes to passenger safety and operational reliability.
- Elevators, Doors, & Lift Mechanisms: Snubbers ensure smooth deceleration in elevator systems and heavy door closures, reducing jarring impacts and providing a more comfortable and controlled operation.
- Robotics & Precision Mechanisms: In sensitive robotic assemblies or precision mechanisms, the controlled damping provided by snubbers safeguards against unintended oscillations, ensuring accurate movements and protecting intricate components from shock-related damage.

Not connected to the damped mass they are working with.
Used in accurate end of stroke and shock absorbtion applications.
Primary function is energy dissipation.
One way only,(damping in compression) Low force return spring for self resetting.

MODEL	2KS160S	2KS240S	2KS325S	2KS444S
Bore Size (inches)	0.627" (15.93 mm)	0.945" (24 mm)	1.281" (32.53 mm)	1.750" (44.4 mm)
Stroke (inches)	1.1	1.3	2.3	2.3
Energy Capacity (FT-LBS)	0 - 0.3	0 - 0.75	0 - 3	0 - 7
Spring Force Extended (LBS)	0.16	0.13	0.25	0.25
Spring Force Retracted (LBS)	0.28	0.27	0.5	0.5
Push Rod Reset Time - Valve Fully Open (ms)	30	60	70	161
Push Rod Reset Time - Valve Fully Closed (ms)	50	90	150	430
Friction Coefficient (approx.)	0.2	0.2	0.2	0.2
Piston Friction (without side load) (grams)	<1	<1	<4	<8
Operating Temperature Range	-55°C to +150°C	-55°C to +150°C	-55°C to +75°C	-55°C to +75°C