User Guide

4
Chapter 2 Operation
2.1 General Description
Thorlabs passive isolators are designed to remove floor vibrations in the critical 10Hz to 50Hz frequency range. The passive
air mount design is ideal for most general optical table uses, providing low frequency isolation coupled with excellent stability
in both horizontal and vertical directions. The thick wall construction assures maximum safety and overload protection with an
economical design. The air mount continues to support and isolate even with no air pressure.
Two load capacities are available to match a particular application and a choice of height allows any of the standard Thorlabs
table tops to be mounted at a nominal working height of 910mm (36 in.) above the floor.
2.2 Damping System
Each isolator consists of a cylindrical reinforced rubber air mount in the top of a cylindrical steel leg. The rubber mount is bolted
to the top plate and the table top rests on an aluminum plate which is molded to the air mount. The height of the table top is
adjusted by admitting or releasing air into the mount via a standard Schraeder valve, situated on the side of each isolator.
.
Fig. 2.1 Passive isolator section
273 mm (10.75 in.) diameter
Schraeder valve
steel outer cylinder
upper plate
reinforced rubber
air mount
90 mm
(3.54")