Flexible bushes

The flexible bush provides an effective alternative to a mechanical joint for oscillating or pivoting movements with limited amplitude. A flexible bush consists of an elastomer ring pre-compressed between two cylindrical metal parts. This type of anti-vibration mounting also helps reduce the transmission of vibrations.

What is a flexible bush?

Flexible bushes, more commonly known as silent blocks, consist of two circular metal sleeves connected by a layer of damping rubber. The flexibility of the elastomer allows for slight misalignment between the sleeves while also helping to reduce the transmission of vibrations. In practical terms, two parts of the same mechanical assembly can be connected by a flexible bush (silent block) while retaining a degree of flexibility thanks to the rubber, a material well known for its damping properties. PAULSTRA, a leading European manufacturer of flexible bushes, offers a wide range of references designed to meet most common industrial applications.

Why use a silent block?

Silent blocks are recommended whenever flexibility needs to be introduced into a mechanical assembly. Among other benefits, they allow for slight misalignment and help prevent component failure caused by excessive rigidity. The outer sleeve of the flexible bush is fitted into the housing of mechanical component no. 1, while the shaft of mechanical component no. 2 is fitted into the inner sleeve. The two mechanical components are therefore connected through the silent block, which provides the required flexibility within the assembly.