Rotary Damper and Linear Damper: Understanding the Basic Differences

A damper is an object movement control mechanism that is most frequently used in the furniture, automobile, medical, and doors and windows industries. It is intended to regulate the movement’s effect by use of the internal damping force theory. For application areas and performance, rotary dampers and linear dampers have distinct effect embodiments. These dampers have two characteristics in common that are known in the form of the application of hydraulic pressure and the generation of shock-absorbing capability by oil flowing in a confined channel. However, a linear damper acquires its shock-absorbing ability through linear motion, whereas a rotary damper obtains its shock-absorbing capacity by spinning a shaft.

What Is A Rotary Damper and a Linear Damper?

A component that gradually closes toilet lids and other similar items is called a rotary damper. It works by creating torque via the hydraulic pressure produced by spinning an internal mechanism or the viscous resistance of oil. Two varieties of rotary dampers exist, each with a unique construction. The first kind is a continuous rotary damper that creates shear resistance by moving a viscous body while keeping a certain space, and a partial rotary angle damper that creates high hydraulic pressure by purposefully pouring a viscous body into a small space.

Using a compressive force applied in a linear direction, a linear damper is a mechanical device that gradually closes sliding doors and other similar things. It is essential to choose a product that fits the damper’s mounting space and operational image because these dampers can only be moved linearly. The rotary damper can be made to operate in a linear or rotational manner, depending on how it is mounted.

Working Mechanism of Rotary Damper and Linear Damper

There are two categories of rotary dampers. Using compressive force, Both partial rotary angle dampers and continuous rotary dampers employ viscous resistance and use compressive force. While partial rotary angle dampers are intended to produce torque by forcing oil into a restricted channel, continuous rotary dampers generate torque by beating oil. When compared to linear dampers, rotary dampers often have fewer parts.

Due to their reliance on compressive force, linear dampers typically have more components than rotary dampers since they need extra parts, like springs, that the latter do not have. Together with serving as a resistor on its own, a spring also helps a pushed shaft return to its starting position. A linear damper’s overall length tends to rise since it can absorb relatively larger stresses, but in exchange, it takes more strokes to push oil.

Choosing the Right Kind of Damper for an Application

To ensure that your product functions properly and lasts a long time, it is critical to select the appropriate damper. However, this selection of the correct damper depends on your understanding of the product, determining the damper’s required strength, and choosing a reliable supplier. But before everything else, you ought to know about the various factors that must be considered when picking a damper:

1. Determine the type of motion

Think about the amount of movement you require in relation to the available space for the damper’s placement. There are differences between rotary and linear dampers depending on the kind of movement, mounting area, and torque/force needed.

2. Needs for load

Ascertain the force or torque that the damper must manage. Different dampers can support different loads.

3. Dimensions and shape

Make sure there is enough room for the damper. Take into account the damper housing’s dimensions and your installation options, including whether it should be visible or hidden.

4. Motion speed

Think about the damping force needed to control the desired speed of motion. It is important to match the resistance levels provided by different dampers to the requirements of the application.

5. Installation simplicity

Seek for dampers that fit your application well and are simple to install. Some might need to be mounted in a certain way.

What Are the Products that Use Rotary Dampers and Linear Dampers?

Pianos, toilets, and trash can lids that employ hinges are examples of devices that work well with rotary dampers. This is because these items require a lot of damping force when they close. To keep the mounting area tidy and unblemished while maintaining the external design, the product is integrated right into the middle of rotation so that it is not visible from the outside.

Smooth sliding doors, car and motorbike suspensions, desk drawers, and other items with linear motion are the ideal candidates for linear dampers. As a result of its integration into a three-point link and lack of connection to the lid’s center of rotation, linear dampers are utilized for items that are exposed on the outside but do not constitute a design or safety risk.

In Conclusion

Selecting the ideal damper is a complex choice that necessitates carefully weighing the demands of your particular application. Knowing the distinct advantages and uses of both rotary dampers and linear dampers will enable you to make an informed decision. You can select the best type of damper based on various application areas and practical needs. Not to mention, search for companies who are knowledgeable about your sector and can assist you in selecting the appropriate damper. You can be certain your damper will function properly for a very long period by choosing a reputable company.