Articles
Free shock-absorption calculations
arrow_backTo the overview14 August 2026 | IAC Acoustics A/S
Shock absorption is essential in many demanding environments, including naval, military, offshore, transport and industrial applications, where sensitive equipment must be protected against shock loads, severe impacts and vibrations.
Solving shock and vibration problems requires a thorough understanding of the entire dynamic system – both the loads to which the equipment is exposed and the responses generated by the structure. IAC Acoustics therefore offers a free 1DOF calculation, providing a clear picture of the residual shock transmitted to your equipment.
Shock Absorbers are specially designed components that protect equipment against sudden shocks, impacts and vibrations. They act as an elastic interface between the equipment and the structure on which it is mounted, absorbing energy to prevent the equipment from being subjected to excessive loads.
Shock Absorbers are used across many sectors where operational reliability is critical. In naval applications, they protect mechanical and electronic equipment, weapon systems and other critical equipment against shock loads, the most severe of which can result from explosions. In military applications, they are used in vehicles, mobile units, bunkers and containers, where equipment is exposed to shock, severe vibration and high mechanical loads. They are also used in industrial, offshore and transport applications to protect equipment such as pumps, generators and communication systems against shock and vibration during transport or installation.
Solving shock and vibration problems requires all inputs (shock, vibration and movement) and responses (equipment, structure and mounting system) to be analysed. We offer a free 1DOF calculation, and once the calculation has been completed, you will receive a report detailing the residual shock levels. This provides a basis for assessing whether the equipment can withstand the residual shock and whether the design or Shock Absorbers need to be adjusted. The calculation can also be used as documentation for the end user to demonstrate that the solution performs as intended.
Achieving effective shock absorption requires both technical expertise and a proven, structured approach. The global methodology developed by Socitec Group and applied by IAC Acoustics is based on advanced design and simulation tools and is embedded in ISO 9001 procedures.
The process may include various elements from the list below:
- Definition of shock and vibration specifications
- Preliminary studies
- Analysis and simulation of structural response
- Selection of the most suitable technology, mounting orientation, and standard or customised model
- Final simulation of the proposed solution
- Verification through prototype testing
- Qualification testing in accordance with commercial and military standards
- Validation of the solution using advanced measurement equipment
At a technical level, IAC Acoustics offers, among other services:
- Mechanical design in SolidWorks (customised solutions, equipment racks and floating floors)
- Static and dynamic FEM analysis (Finite Element Analysis) in ANSYS of structures such as containers, enclosures and transport systems
- Numerical simulation in SYMOS of non-linear mechanical systems subjected to shock and vibration inputs
- Drop/shock testing, vibration testing, fatigue testing and experimental modal analysis
This comprehensive approach ensures that solutions not only work in theory but also deliver stable performance in real-world conditions, including naval and military environments where requirements are particularly demanding.
IAC Acoustics has more than 60 years of experience in shock and vibration isolation and works with proven technologies used in naval, military, offshore and industrial applications.
Within Shock Absorbers, we offer, among other things:
- A free 1DOF calculation, providing a data-driven basis for assessing residual shock and loads on the equipment
- Specialist expertise in naval and military applications, including corrosion-resistant materials and optimised mounting principles
- Customised solutions, with designs and mounting orientations adapted to the requirements of the system
- A well-documented development process incorporating simulations, prototypes and qualification testing in accordance with relevant standards
Contact us to learn more about calculations tailored to individual applications, for both existing equipment and new-build projects such as naval vessels, vehicles and more.
This article is written by:
IAC Acoustics A/S
IAC Acoustics is an engineering company specialising in noise control, acoustics, and shock and vibration isolation for critical applications across industry, infrastructure, and defence.
Within the Defence and Security sector, we design and supply customised shock and vibration isolation systems for mission-critical equipment operating in harsh environments, ensuring operational performance, reliability, and compliance with military standards.
Our expertise extends to the design and construction of secure and special access facilities, including SCIF and TEMPEST-compliant rooms, providi
