How to Use Shock Absorber Selection Curves
What catalog selection curves mean and how they support model or adjustment-setting checks.
Direct answer
Selection curves compare impact velocity with total energy for a model or adjustment setting. A point outside the allowed curve means the absorber may be overloaded; for adjustable models, the usable setting range is limited by the impact velocity and damping curve.
Questions this page answers
- How do I use industrial shock absorber selection curves?
- What does total energy vs impact velocity mean?
- How do I set an adjustable shock absorber?
Required inputs
totalEnergyNmimpactVelocityMpsmodelSeriesadjustmentSetting
Calculation steps
- 1
Locate impact velocity
Find the velocity value on the model or setting curve.
- 2
Locate total energy
Find the calculated total energy per cycle and compare it with the curve boundary.
- 3
Stay inside the curve
Choose a model or adjustment range where the velocity-energy point sits inside the safe operating envelope.
Common mistakes
- Reading only energy and ignoring velocity.
- Using an adjustment setting beyond the velocity limit.
- Using selection curves as a replacement for energy-per-hour checks.
Catalog source notes
- The full product catalog p.18 explains adjustable setting range by shock velocity and damping curves; p.28, p.29 and p.34 show EN selection curves using total energy and impact velocity.
Move from answer to model shortlist.
Use the sizing tool when you have the inputs, or send the application data for engineering review.