LORD AM-004 Low Profile Avionics Mount for Aerospace and Defense Applications

Key Points

Before diving into specific applications and features, understanding the core specifications of the LORD AM-004 mount is essential for proper implementation:

• Maximum static load per mount: 4 lb (1.8 kg)
• Maximum dynamic input at resonance: 0.10 in (2.54 mm) D.A.
• Weight: 0.46 oz (13.0 g)
• Temperature range: -65°F to +300°F (-54°C to +149°C) for BTR Silicone
• Temperature range: -40°F to +300°F (-40°C to +149°C) for BTR II Silicone

The LORD AM-004 mount demonstrates consistent performance across these operating parameters, making it suitable for demanding aerospace environments.

The LORD AM-004 Low Profile Avionics Mount is a specialized vibration isolation solution designed for protecting sensitive avionics equipment in aerospace and defense applications. These mounts provide reliable performance across a broad temperature range while maintaining a compact form factor ideal for space-constrained installations.

Materials and Construction

The materials selected for the LORD AM-004 mount are specifically chosen to provide optimal performance in aerospace applications:

• Inner member: 304 stainless steel, passivated
• Plate: 301 stainless steel annealed
• Elastomer: LORD BTR or BTR II Silicone

This combination of materials provides excellent corrosion resistance while maintaining structural integrity across the full temperature range.

Performance Characteristics

The LORD AM-004 series offers multiple variants to accommodate different load requirements and natural frequency targets:

BTR Elastomer Options:

The BTR elastomer variant provides higher damping characteristics and is ideal for applications requiring maximum vibration control across a wide temperature range.

• Natural frequencies range from 13 Hz to 23 Hz at rated load
• Dynamic axial spring rates from 71 lb/in to 226 lb/in
• Dynamic radial spring rates from 79 lb/in to 251 lb/in

BTR II Elastomer Options:

The BTR II elastomer offers lower damping and improved isolation efficiency, making it suitable for applications where maximum high-frequency isolation is the priority.

• Natural frequencies range from 12 Hz to 21 Hz at rated load
• Dynamic axial spring rates from 61 lb/in to 173 lb/in
• Dynamic radial spring rates from 68 lb/in to 192 lb/in

Applications

The LORD AM-004 mount serves a wide range of critical aerospace and defense applications, protecting sensitive equipment from harmful vibration and shock.

Primary Applications

These core applications represent the most common and crucial uses of the AM-004 mount in aviation systems.

• Inertial navigation systems: Inertial navigation systems require precise vibration isolation to maintain accuracy in measuring aircraft position and movement.
• Flight control computers: Flight control computers process critical flight inputs and commands, requiring protection from vibration to ensure reliable operation.
• Radio/communications equipment: Radio and communications equipment needs isolation from engine and aerodynamic vibration to maintain clear signal transmission and reception.
• Radar components: Radar components contain sensitive electronics and moving parts that require vibration dampening to maintain target tracking accuracy.
• Electronic warfare systems: Electronic warfare systems contain sophisticated sensors and processors that need protection from aircraft vibration to function effectively.
• Cockpit displays: Cockpit displays house delicate LCD/LED components that require isolation to maintain visual clarity and prevent damage.
• Flight data recorders: Flight data recorders contain sensitive storage media requiring vibration protection to ensure accurate data recording.

Secondary Applications

Beyond primary avionics applications, the LORD AM-004 mount effectively protects various aircraft subsystems and accessories.

• Engine accessories: Engine accessories experience high vibration levels and need isolation to maintain proper function and longevity.
• Fuel controls: Fuel controls require precise operation under varying conditions, necessitating protection from engine and airframe vibration.
• Pressure sensors: Pressure sensors need stable mounting to provide accurate readings while withstanding environmental vibration.
• Oil coolers: Oil coolers require isolation from engine vibration while maintaining proper alignment for fluid connections.
• Environmental control system components: Environmental control components need protection from both vibration and thermal cycling while maintaining system efficiency.

Design Considerations

Successful implementation of the LORD AM-004 mount requires careful attention to several critical design factors that impact performance.

Installation Requirements

Proper mounting surface preparation and hardware selection are essential for optimal mount performance.

• Mounting surface flatness and rigidity: Mounting surface flatness and rigidity specifications ensure proper load distribution and mount performance.
• Bolt torque specifications: Bolt torque specifications must be precisely followed to achieve optimal mount performance and prevent damage.
• Interface materials: Interface materials must be compatible with both the mount and mounting surface materials while maintaining isolation properties.
• Access for maintenance: Access for maintenance must be considered during installation to allow for future inspection and service.
• Environmental exposure: Environmental exposure conditions must be evaluated to ensure proper material selection and protection.

Performance Factors

Understanding the operating environment helps ensure appropriate mount selection and implementation.

• Expected vibration spectrum: Expected vibration spectrum analysis helps determine proper mount selection and quantity.
• Shock loads: Shock loads must be analyzed to ensure the mount can protect equipment during extreme events.
• Temperature cycling: Temperature cycling effects must be considered for both mount selection and installation design.
• Load distribution: Load distribution across multiple mounts must be properly calculated and balanced.
• Natural frequency requirements: Natural frequency requirements must be evaluated to ensure proper isolation performance in the intended application.

Installation Guidelines

Following a systematic installation process helps achieve optimal mount performance and reliability.

Follow these key steps:

1. Verify mounting surface preparation
2. Check bolt hole alignment
3. Apply proper torque sequence
4. Verify clearances
5. Test full range of motion
6. Document installation parameters

Advantages Over Comparable Solutions

The AM-004 mount offers distinct benefits compared to alternative isolation solutions in both technical performance and practical implementation.

Technical Benefits

The mount's engineering advantages derive from its materials selection and design optimization.

• Excellent temperature stability
• Predictable performance characteristics
• High reliability
• Long service life
• Minimal maintenance requirements

Implementation Benefits

Practical advantages make the LORD AM-004 mount an attractive solution for many aerospace applications.

• Simple installation
• Compact form factor
• Multiple configuration options
• Proven track record
• Broad application flexibility

Maintenance and Inspection

While the AM-004 mount is designed for minimal maintenance, regular inspection is recommended:

Inspection Points

Regular visual and mechanical inspection helps ensure continued mount performance and reliability.

• Visual examination for damage
• Check for proper compression
• Verify bolt torque
• Assess elastomer condition
• Evaluate overall mount alignment

Maintenance Schedule

A structured approach to maintenance and inspection helps maximize mount service life.

• Initial inspection after installation
• Periodic checks during regular maintenance
• Special inspection after extreme events
• Annual comprehensive evaluation
• Documentation of findings

Final Thoughts

The LORD AM-004 Low Profile Avionics Mount represents a highly engineered solution for vibration isolation in aerospace and defense applications. Its combination of proven materials, reliable performance, and versatile mounting options makes it an excellent choice for protecting sensitive equipment in demanding environments. 

When properly specified and installed, these mounts provide consistent protection across a broad range of operating conditions while maintaining their compact form factor.

Comprehensive Engineering Excellence in Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing

Meeting the exacting requirements of aerospace and defense applications demands more than just manufacturing capability—it requires deep technical expertise and a systematic approach to quality. Here's how Modus Advanced delivers on these critical needs.

Technical Expertise That Drives Innovation

Our engineering team forms the foundation of our approach to aerospace and defense projects. With engineers making up over 10% of our staff, we bring specialized knowledge in materials science, manufacturing processes, and systems optimization to every project.

This expertise enables us to engage from initial concept through final production, providing crucial insights that optimize designs for both performance and manufacturability. By identifying potential challenges early, we help prevent costly redesigns and accelerate development timelines.

Integrated Manufacturing Excellence

Traditional manufacturing often fragments production across multiple vendors, creating unnecessary complexity and risk. Our vertically integrated approach brings critical processes together under one roof:

• Metal housing fabrication 
• EMI shielding integration 
• Environmental sealing through FIP gasket dispensing 
• Thermal management implementation 
• Quality validation across all processes

This consolidation eliminates shipping delays between vendors while maintaining strict quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

Commitment to Defense-Grade Standards

For aerospace and defense applications, compliance isn't optional—it's imperative. Our quality system maintains:

• AS9100 certification for aerospace manufacturing 
• ITAR registration for defense projects 
• ISO 9001 certification for quality management 
• Active progress toward CMMC Level 2 compliance

These certifications reflect our commitment to meeting the industry's most demanding requirements.

Strategic Engineering Partnership

We function as an extension of your engineering team rather than just another vendor. This partnership model means:

Early design collaboration to optimize manufacturability Ongoing technical support throughout development Flexible adaptation to evolving project requirements Continuous process improvement and optimization

By engaging as a strategic partner, we help accelerate your path from concept to deployment while maintaining the highest quality standards.