What Shocks Do | Gabriel

A shock absorber (in reality, a shock "damper") is a mechanical or hydraulic device designed to absorb and damp shock impulses. It does this by converting the kinetic energy of the shock into another form of energy (typically heat) which is then dissipated. Most shock absorbers are a form of dashpot (a damper which resists motion via viscous friction).

An automobile shock absorber contains spring-loaded valves and orifices to control the flow of oil through an internal piston. Shock absorbers reduce the effect of traveling over rough ground, leading to improved Ride Quality and Vehicle Handling.

Shocks have the sole purpose of limiting excessive suspension movement and to damp spring oscillations (bounce). All vehicles on the road have some form of shock absorber. They are located on the front and rear wheels or axels of the vehicle and are connected to the vehicle suspension system – tyres, springs, chassis and their linking components.

Their primary function is to keep the vehicle’s wheels in contact with the road. Secondary functions are to ensure more accurate control and steering of the vehicle and to correct phasing (the movement of the suspension).

Most newer cars have struts instead of shocks. Struts are compact and allow for lighter vehicles. They not only control the up and down movement of the tyre, but contribute to the steering’s pivotal rotation.

How They Work:

Shock absorbers reduce wheel movement and vibration by turning the kinetic energy of the suspension movement into heat energy, and then dispersing this heat energy through the air passing over the shock absorber.
Shock absorbers work in two cycles namely the compression cycle and the extension cycle. When the wheel travels upwards causing the spring and shock absorber to shorten, the shock absorber is said to be in COMPRESSION STROKE. When the road wheel starts to move back down, the shock absorber is lengthened and said to be in REBOUND OR EXTENSION.

A typical car or light truck will have more resistance during its extension cycle than its compression cycle. The faster the suspension moves, the more resistance the shock absorber provides. This enables shocks to adjust to road conditions and to control all of the unwanted motions that can occur in a moving vehicle, including bounce, sway and brake dive.

Are all shocks the same?

“Shock absorber” is a common term used for all shocks but there are various types:

Standard telescopic shock absorbers
McPherson struts
Spring seat shock absorbers
Cartridges

Replacing your shocks at intervals will help keep your car performing like new, but choosing the right shocks can make a big difference.Equally, choosing a reputable Brand like Gabriel will give you peace of mind in the knowledge that you have a product with a pedigree of more than 100 years and experience.

Today the design and manufacture of shock absorbers is a high technology, precision industry.