In today's fast-paced world, product performance isn't just about functionality — it's about creating a smooth and quiet experience for the end user. Whether you're in automotive, HVAC, medical, or electronics, reducing unwanted noise and vibration is key to delivering high-quality products that stand out. Sur-Seal has been at the forefront of developing innovative noise and vibration reduction solutions, leveraging our expertise in materials engineering to address the most common issues that lead to buzz, squeak, and rattle (BSR).

Here are our top five solutions to minimize noise and vibration:

1. Cushioning: Reducing Vibration at the Source

One of the most effective ways to tackle vibration is by addressing it directly at its source through cushioning. Cushioning materials absorb and dissipate energy, reducing the transfer of vibrations that would otherwise result in noise. In automotive and medical equipment, vibrations can affect both performance and user comfort, making it essential to choose the right material.

Sur-Seal often uses closed-cell foam and rubber materials like 3M Thinsulate for cushioning applications. These materials are ideal because they resist moisture and extreme temperatures, making them perfect for harsh environments. By isolating vibrations, cushioning helps prevent mechanical noises that occur when components rub against each other.

2. Dampening: Silencing the Sound

While cushioning focuses on vibration, dampening is all about silencing the sound created by vibrating parts. Dampening materials reduce or eliminate unwanted noise by absorbing sound waves. Open-cell polyurethane foams are commonly used for this purpose, especially in automotive and HVAC systems where noise can impact comfort and performance.

At Sur-Seal, we offer more than just open-cell polyurethane. For industries that prioritize lightweight designs—like aerospace and electronics—we recommend non-woven materials. These are not only effective at absorbing sound but also flexible and easy to integrate into complex designs.

3. Polyurethane Foams and Poly Materials for Robust Vibration Dampening

Polyurethane foams and poly materials are excellent for more demanding vibration-dampening needs. They are designed to handle different vibration frequencies, making them ideal for sensitive applications like electronics, where even small vibrations can cause problems.

Sur-Seal creates custom solutions tailored to specific industry needs. Whether it’s medical devices requiring precise control over movement and sound, or automotive systems needing long-term durability, we ensure our materials meet all performance and regulatory standards.

4. Non-Woven Materials: Lightweight and Versatile

Non-woven materials are becoming a popular choice for noise and vibration reduction due to their lightweight, customizable nature. They perform as well as traditional foams while offering weight savings, which is crucial in aerospace and automotive industries where every gram matters.

These materials can be engineered for various applications and combined with other materials to form composite solutions that enhance performance and cost-effectiveness. At Sur-Seal, we specialize in creating such combinations to meet your unique requirements.

5. Customized Solutions Based on Your Needs

Every noise and vibration issue is unique, and the best solution depends on your specific application. Our team at Sur-Seal asks key questions to determine the right approach:

• What frequency of vibration or noise are we trying to remove or prevent? Different materials work better at different frequencies.
• What is the machine or component, and what specifications does it require? This includes understanding if the material must meet safety standards or withstand environmental conditions.
• What materials will it need to bond with? Compatibility is critical, especially when adhesives are involved.
• What’s the main problem? Is it weight, sound levels, or something else? Knowing the core issue helps us find the best solution.

Solutions Engineering: Teardown for Better Outcomes

At Sur-Seal, we believe that achieving the best results starts with a deep analysis of your product. Our Engineering Solutions team performs detailed teardowns to identify the root causes of noise and vibration issues and provide targeted recommendations. Whether you're working with complex machinery or sensitive medical devices, we ensure our solutions meet your technical, environmental, and regulatory needs.

We don’t just suggest off-the-shelf materials. We collaborate closely with your team to understand your application’s unique demands. Learn more about how we engineer custom solutions by checking out our Engineering Solutions process.

Sur-Seal’s Samples Program: Test Before You Commit

Choosing the right material can be overwhelming. That’s why Sur-Seal offers a sample program that lets you test different noise and vibration reduction options in real-world scenarios. By trying samples, you can ensure the materials you select are the best fit for your needs before making a full commitment.

Our samples include cushioning foams, dampening materials, and non-woven solutions. Visit our Samples Program page to explore your options and request a sample today.

An Experienced Partner in Solving Noise and Vibration Issues

Buzz, squeak, and rattle can significantly impact your product’s performance and appeal. But with the right noise and vibration reduction solutions, these issues can be minimized or eliminated entirely. At Sur-Seal, we have extensive experience solving these challenges across many industries—from cushioning and dampening to using polyurethane foams and non-woven materials.

By addressing noise and vibration at the source and selecting materials based on performance and environmental factors, Sur-Seal ensures your products deliver a quiet, smooth, and reliable experience.

Contact Sur-Seal today to learn more about our noise and vibration reduction solutions or to speak with one of our engineers.