Rubber Vibration Mounts for Diesel Generators: Selection Guide
Diesel generators are widely used for standby power, construction sites, industrial facilities, telecommunications, commercial buildings and many other applications.
During operation, the diesel engine produces vibration through combustion, reciprocating components and rotating components.
If this vibration is transmitted directly to the generator frame or foundation, it can cause excessive noise, mechanical stress and unwanted movement.
Rubber vibration mounts for generators provide an effective method of isolating engine and generator vibration from the supporting structure.
Why Do Diesel Generators Need Vibration Mounts?
A diesel engine produces continuous dynamic forces during operation.
These forces can be transmitted through the generator frame into the floor or foundation.
Without adequate vibration isolation, excessive vibration may contribute to:
- Noise
- Loose fasteners
- Mechanical fatigue
- Component wear
- Structural vibration
- Equipment movement
- Reduced operating comfort
Rubber generator mounts create an elastic connection between the generator and its supporting structure.
How Do Generator Rubber Mounts Work?
Generator rubber mounts use an elastomeric element to absorb and isolate vibration.
When the generator operates, the rubber element deforms according to the applied load and dynamic forces.
The mount helps reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to the supporting structure.
The performance of the mount depends on:
- Generator weight
- Load distribution
- Engine RPM
- Number of mounting points
- Rubber hardness
- Mount geometry
- Dynamic forces
- Installation conditions
Common Types of Generator Rubber Mounts
Different generator designs require different mounting solutions.
Cylindrical Rubber Mounts
Cylindrical rubber mounts are commonly used where a compact vibration isolation solution is required.
They can be manufactured in different diameters, heights and hardness levels.
Rubber Bobbin Mounts
Rubber bobbin mounts can be used for smaller equipment and components where vertical or lateral vibration isolation is required.
Heavy-Duty Rubber Mounts
Heavy-duty rubber mounts are designed for applications involving higher loads and more demanding operating conditions.
They may be suitable for larger generator sets and industrial equipment.
Custom Generator Mounts
OEM generator manufacturers may require mounts with specific dimensions, rubber compounds, hardness or metal components.
Custom production allows the mount to be designed according to the generator’s actual requirements.
How to Select Rubber Mounts for a Generator
1. Determine Generator Weight
The first step is to determine the total operating weight of the generator set.
The load should then be evaluated for each mounting point.
2. Check the Number of Mounting Points
A generator may use four, six or more mounting points depending on its design.
The load distribution may not be equal between all mounts.
3. Check Engine RPM
Operating RPM is important because vibration characteristics depend on operating speed.
For example, a generator operating at 1500 RPM has different vibration characteristics from equipment operating at 3000 RPM.
4. Select Appropriate Rubber Hardness
The rubber hardness should be matched to the required load and vibration characteristics.
A mount that is too soft may experience excessive deflection.
A mount that is too stiff may transmit more vibration than desired.
5. Consider the Environment
Generator mounts may be exposed to:
- Diesel fuel
- Lubricating oil
- Heat
- Water
- Dust
- Outdoor conditions
The rubber compound should therefore be selected according to the actual environment.
Rubber Materials for Generator Mounts
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber offers good elasticity and dynamic fatigue performance and is commonly used for vibration isolation.
NBR
NBR can be considered when resistance to oil and fuel is important.
This makes it useful for certain engine and generator applications.
EPDM
EPDM is suitable for applications requiring good resistance to weathering, ozone and outdoor exposure.
The material should be selected according to the actual contact conditions.
Generator Mount Installation
Correct installation is important for vibration isolation performance.
Before installation, check:
- Mount orientation
- Mounting bolt position
- Equipment weight
- Mount compression
- Supporting structure
- Alignment
- Load distribution
The mounting surface should be sufficiently strong and stable.
Incorrect installation can reduce the effectiveness of even a well-designed rubber mount.
Generator Rubber Mounts for OEM Manufacturers
Generator manufacturers often require customized rubber mounts.
OEM solutions may include:
- Custom dimensions
- Custom rubber hardness
- Custom rubber compounds
- Custom metal brackets
- Different bolt configurations
- Special load requirements
A manufacturer can produce mounts according to drawings, samples or technical specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are generator rubber mounts?
Generator rubber mounts are vibration isolation components installed between a generator and its supporting structure.
Do rubber mounts reduce generator noise?
They can help reduce structure-borne noise by reducing vibration transmitted from the generator to the supporting structure.
How many mounts does a generator need?
The number depends on the generator design and mounting structure. Common configurations include four or more mounting points.
What rubber is best for generator mounts?
The appropriate material depends on load, temperature, oil or fuel exposure, weather conditions and required dynamic performance.
Can generator mounts be customized?
Yes. OEM generator mounts can be customized according to drawings, samples, dimensions, load requirements and rubber specifications.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct rubber vibration mounts for diesel generators is important for controlling vibration and protecting both the generator and its supporting structure.
Equipment weight, load distribution, RPM, rubber hardness, material and operating environment should all be considered before selecting a mount.
We supply rubber vibration mounts for generators and other industrial equipment and support OEM and custom production.
Contact us with your generator specifications, drawings or samples for a suitable rubber mounting solution.
