application research

Shock Absorbers for Conveyor Stops and Transfer Systems

How to review stopping duty in pallet transfer, roller conveyor and material-handling stations before selecting an absorber.

Direct answer

For a conveyor or transfer stop, use the highest arriving mass, actual impact velocity and maximum transfer frequency as the starting case. Then check whether accumulation, a powered drive or poor alignment adds force or side load during the absorber stroke. The model must satisfy single-impact energy, hourly duty and the available mechanical stroke together.

Questions this page answers

How do I choose a shock absorber for a conveyor stop?
What data is needed for a pallet transfer stop?
Why do conveyor stops wear out faster than expected?

Required inputs

maximumPalletMassKgimpactVelocityMpstransferCyclesPerHouravailableStrokeMmdriveForceNaccumulationConditionstopperAlignment

Formula logic

Base moving energy

Use the heaviest transfer load and its impact velocity at the stopping position. Powered drive work must be reviewed separately when it remains active during deceleration.

E = 1/2 x m x v^2

Unit: N m

Review steps

1
Use the worst arriving load
Base the selection on the heaviest pallet, fixture or workpiece that can reach the stop, including carriers and attachments.
2
Measure the speed at the stop
Transfer speed set upstream is not always the speed at impact. Check the motion at the actual stopping point, especially on declining or powered sections.
3
Review duty and alignment
A conveyor stop is a repeated impact point. Confirm hourly cycles, stopper geometry and guidance so the absorber is loaded axially rather than used as a locating element.

Common mistakes

Using the nominal payload while omitting the pallet, carrier and fixture mass.
Ignoring product accumulation that changes the effective mass or creates a second push into the stop.
Using the absorber as the only positional stop without a suitable mechanical reference.

Technical notes

Transfer-system selection should be based on the moving assembly, impact velocity, duty cycle and available stopping stroke, rather than conveyor payload alone.

Move from answer to model shortlist.

Use the sizing tool when you have the inputs, or send the application data for engineering review.