Vibration isolators are small, cushion-like pads made of ⅜” thick nitrile rubber. The pads are installed along each guide, between the motor block and the slotted metal brace used to attach the motor to the ceiling. Their design provides a tight seal between the guide angles and wall structure. Doors and grilles with vibration isolators vibrate over 14% less* than doors without them, making a significant difference in how quietly the system operates. 

*Vibration was reduced by 14% on doors and grilles with vibration isolators installed compared to doors and grilles without the system.

"Vibration isolators help dampen the noise associated with rolling doors and grilles," explained Ian Hudock, product manager for Clopay Corporation. "They are a particularly valuable addition for mixed-use applications with adjoining residential spaces."

Which is better, store-bought or manufacturer-sourced vibration isolators?

Off-the-shelf vibration isolators have thick mounts which can leave gaps behind your guide. To avoid this problem, you’ll want to purchase your vibration isolators directly from your manufacturer. Unlike store-bought options, Cornell vibration isolators are specially designed with a tight, gasket-like seal between the guide angles and wall structure. 

What about installation and mounting?

 

Cornell vibration isolators are easy to install, as they come preinstalled on the guides, eliminating the need for extra fasteners. They can be mounted on concrete, filled CMU, and steel jambs. These isolators can also be retrofitted to existing face-of-wall units. Cornell vibration isolators are available for doors and grilles up to 30 feet wide, with no height limitations. However, it's important to note that they are not available if wind load, seismic validation, or where fire rating requirements are required.

Cornell vibration isolators are available on:

Extreme Series Doors and Grilles:

• 300 Series Door 
• 300 Series Grille 
• 1024 Door MicroCoil® Grilles

Standard Doors and Grilles:

• 5015 Grille 
• CrossingGard™ Grille 
• Service Door 
• StoreDefender® Door 
• SentryGate(ESG21 only)
• Thermiser® Door 
• Visionaire® Grille 
• Visionaire® MicroCoil® Grille

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