When Just-Auto.com recently examined “Tomorrow's shock absorbers,” they began from this perspective: “Ride control is basically governed by a vehicle's suspension system, including its shock absorbers (dampers) and struts. For the last decade or so, the high-end technical emphasis has been on developing dampers in which the damper rate can be varied according to the road conditions.”

Producers of custom-molded rubber and rubber-to-metal bonded parts stand at the forefront of the shock absorbing future that is the focus of the site's examination. That is because such companies specialize in rubber-to-metal bonding of dampers, isolaters and mounts for noise and vibration control. Obviously, the latter accomplishment plays a vital part in ensuring a smooth ride out on the road.

In its analysis, Just-Auto.com went on to point out, “Technically speaking, the term ‘shock absorber' is a misnomer because the device doesn't, in the strictest sense, absorb shock at all.” Rather, it “is designed to dampen the movement of the springs.” The Website then adds, “The sole purpose, however, of the more accurately named ‘damper' in any suspension system is to control the spring's oscillations.”

Indeed, vibration occurs when mechanical oscillations take place about an equilibrium point such as those on a vehicle's tires, wheels, hubs and spring mounts. Custom-molded rubber and rubber-to-metal bonded dampers put a damper on, or slow down, those irksome oscillations.

“There have been some advances made to shock absorbers which may be referred to as trends. To improve ride comfort without adding to cost, manufacturers are creating a longer shock absorber movement,” Just-Auto.com continues. One of the latest trends that is “‘highly influential' in automakers' buying decisions” is rubber-bonded-to-metal parts know as elastomers that reduce noise and vibration.

Leading producers of custom-molded and rubber-to-metal bonded parts for noise and vibration control are constantly utilizing up-to-date CAD software to design and construct new tooling and new elastomer formulas. In fact, some such producers have formulated over 1,000 different elastomer formulas, thereby ensuring decades of dependable service. The high grade neoprene elastomers such companies produce have good resistance to flame, oil, gasoline, natural aging, abrasion and weather.

What else is special about the technology? An elastomer “allows the damping characteristics to be changed in milliseconds, [thereby] ensuring the occupant a smooth transition between comfortable ride and a safe handling.” Continuous damping, in particular, is the wave of the future. Unfortunately, the rubber-to-metal vibration control technology is currently only available in top-tier vehicle segments. “Given that much of this continuous damping technology is initially only available as optional equipment, it is up to dealership staff to sell its benefits,” the Website stresses.

New suspension modules, like corner modules, are another trend the auto industry is embracing. “Suspension corner modules include brakes, struts, strut mounts and bearing elements as well as suspension bushings and vibration control elements.” For most customers, industry experts predict, corner modules are “here to stay.”

Thanks to the constantly updated technology involving custom-molded rubber and rubber-to-metal bonded parts for noise and vibration control, tomorrow's highway rides are looking and feeling a whole lot more comfortable and smoother.