Stockbridge Vibration Damper
Stockbridge Dampers are solid dampers used to help suppress the vibrational impact on outdoor electrical structures caused by windy weather, limiting the damage caused to fragile cables and wires.
A classic damper long favoured for its efficiency, the Stockbridge Vibration Damper is made from solid aluminium and galvanized steel. This maximises the resilience of the damper against the full range of weather conditions whilst maintaining a lightweight finish.
Its distinctive dumbbell shape consists of a flexible cable with two weighted ends and a central clamp. This design makes it ideal for safely dissipating energy throughout the connection, and it works with a wide frequency range.
Economic, effective, and easy to install, the Stockbridge Vibration Damper is the ideal choice for achieving maximum weather protection whilst facilitating optimum energy efficiency.
Suitable for clamping connectors between 1.1- 1.7” and for use on overhead power lines, OPGWS, cable-stayed bridges, long cantilevered signs, and more.
Key Features:
- Suppresses weather induced vibrations
- Aluminium safety plate and clamp
- Galvanized steel cable & weights
- Suitable for cables between 1.1 – 1.7”
- Effective on a range of frequencies
- Optimized barbell design
- Safe, easy installation
- Rust resistant
| Name | Vibration damper |
| Model | FD,FR,FRD,FDZ,FDN,FDT,DBYJ,FRYJ |
| Product usage | Protective hardware, mainly used to reduce the vibration amplitude of overhead power line conductors and lightning wires |
Technical Data:
FD type vibration damper
Catalog No | Conductor cross section(mm2) | Fig | Dimensions(mm) | Weight(kg) | |||
Steel wire | AAC&ACSR | L | D | h | |||
FD-1 | 35-50 | 2 | 300 | 40 | 40 | 1.5 | |
FD-2 | 70-95 | 1 | 370 | 46 | 55 | 2.4 | |
FD-3 | 120-150 | 1 | 450 | 56 | 65 | 4.5 | |
FD-4 | 185-240 | 1 | 500 | 62 | 70 | 5.6 | |
FD-5 | 300-400 | 1 | 550 | 67 | 70 | 7.2 | |
FD-6 | 500-630 | 1 | 550 | 70 | 75 | 8.6 | |
FR Type Vibration damper
Catalog No. | Fit wire diameter | Main Dimensions (mm) | Weight(kg) | ||||
L | D | a | L1 | L2 | |||
FR-1 | 7-12 | 429 | 80 | 50 | 239 | 190 | 2.6 |
FR-2 | 11-22 | 429 | 80 | 50 | 239 | 190 | 2.6 |
FR-3 | 18-28 | 505 | 90 | 60 | 280 | 225 | 4.97 |
FR-4 | 23-36 | 550 | 97 | 60 | 300 | 250 | 4.5 |
FDN Type
Cat. No. | Conductor Dia. (mm) | Dimension(mm) | Weight(kg) | |
H | L | |||
FDN-11YTXL | 7.0~11.0 | 60 | 420 | 1.7 |
FDN-16YTXL | 11.1~16.0 | 65 | 420 | 1.9 |
FDN-20YTXL | 16.1~20.0 | 70 | 460 | 3.2 |
FDN-24YXL | 20.1~24.0 | 70 | 460 | 3.2 |
FDN-27YXL | 24.1~27.0 | 75 | 490 | 5 |
FDN-30YXL | 27.1~30.0 | 80 | 490 | 5.4 |
FDN-34YXL | 30.1~34.0 | 90 | 490 | 7.5 |
FDN-40YXL | 34.1~40.0 | 100 | 490 | 7.6 |
The clamp is aluminium alloy. Counter weights are zinalloy, the other parts are hot-dip galvanized steel. | ||||
Stockbridge vibration damper Testing
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A Complete Guide to Stockbridge Vibration Dampers
Stockbridge vibration dampers are essential devices used to mitigate wind-induced vibrations in overhead power lines and other slender structures. These dampers are specifically designed to suppress aeolian vibrations, which can lead to significant wear and tear on cables, ultimately causing fatigue and failure.
What is a Stockbridge Vibration Damper?
A Stockbridge damper is a tuned mass damper that consists of two masses attached to the ends of a short length of cable or flexible rod. The central clamp secures the damper to the main cable or wire, allowing it to dissipate vibrational energy effectively. The dumbbell shape of the damper helps in targeting oscillations caused by wind, particularly those that occur in the vertical plane due to vortex shedding. This phenomenon creates standing wave patterns on cables, leading to damaging oscillations.
Key Features
- Dumbbell Shape: The unique design allows for optimal energy dissipation.
- Material Composition: Modern dampers are typically made from aluminum and galvanized steel, providing durability against environmental factors.
- Wide Frequency Range: Stockbridge dampers are effective across various frequencies, making them versatile for different applications.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Shape | Dumbbell |
| Material | Aluminum and galvanized steel |
| Frequency Range | Wide range |
| Installation Type | Clamped onto main cable |
Functionality of Stockbridge Dampers
The primary function of Stockbridge dampers is to reduce the amplitude of vibrations caused by wind. When wind flows over overhead cables, it creates vortices that can induce oscillations. These oscillations can lead to fatigue failure in the conductors if not mitigated. The Stockbridge damper works by introducing a secondary mass that oscillates out of phase with the main cable’s vibrations. This interaction effectively cancels out some of the vibrational energy, reducing the overall amplitude.
How It Works
- Energy Dissipation: As wind-induced vibrations occur, the damper’s masses move in response, absorbing and dissipating energy.
- Tuned Mass System: The mass and stiffness of the damper are carefully selected to match the natural frequency of the cable system, optimizing its effectiveness.
- Installation Points: Dampers are typically installed at points of maximum displacement (anti-nodes) along the cable span, usually near where it is clamped to towers or insulators.
Types of Stockbridge Dampers
Several types of Stockbridge dampers exist, each designed for specific applications:
- FD Type Dampers: Commonly used for overhead power lines with varying wire diameters. They come in multiple models (FD-1 through FD-6) tailored for specific weight and diameter requirements.
- FR Type Dampers: Designed for larger conductor diameters and heavier applications, these dampers provide enhanced vibration suppression.
- Dogbone Dampers: An innovative design that adds a third degree of freedom by offsetting weights sideways, allowing for more effective energy dissipation.
Technical Specifications
| Type | Fit Wire Diameter | Weight (kg) | Main Dimensions (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| FD-1 | 35-50 | 2 | 300 |
| FD-2 | 70-95 | 1 | 370 |
| FR-3 | 18-28 | 4.97 | 280 |
Installation Guidelines for Stockbridge Vibration Dampers
Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of Stockbridge dampers. Here are some key considerations:
- Orientation: When installing multiple dampers on a span, ensure they are oriented consistently (either all weights toward or away from the structure) for optimal performance.
- Location: Install dampers close to points where cables are clamped to towers or insulators to address maximum vibrational stress areas.
- Tools Required: Minimal tools are needed; however, using a breakaway bolt option simplifies installation as it eliminates the need for special torque tools.
- Safety Precautions: Always follow safety guidelines when working at heights or near energized lines.
Applications of Stockbridge Vibration Dampers
Stockbridge vibration dampers are widely used in various applications:
- Overhead Power Lines: To protect conductors from wind-induced vibrations.
- Cable-Stayed Bridges: To enhance structural integrity against dynamic loads.
- Long Cantilevered Signs: To prevent damage from oscillations caused by wind.
These dampers play a critical role in extending the lifespan of electrical infrastructure by minimizing fatigue and potential failure points.
A Leading Manufacturer
As a leading manufacturer of Stockbridge vibration dampers, we specialize in designing and producing a wide range of dampers tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our products are engineered using advanced materials and manufacturing techniques, ensuring they provide optimal performance in mitigating wind-induced vibrations. We understand the critical role these dampers play in maintaining the integrity of overhead power lines and other structures, which is why we prioritize quality and reliability in every product we create.
Our team of experienced engineers works closely with clients to develop customized solutions that address unique challenges in their applications. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, we continuously refine our designs and expand our product offerings, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the industry. By choosing us as your Stockbridge vibration damper supplier, you can trust that you are investing in high-quality products that enhance the safety and longevity of your infrastructure.