Table Of Contents
Key Points
- LORD MGN/MGS Series mounts provide vibration isolation for lightweight components in aerospace and defense applications
- Available in both natural rubber (MGN) and silicone (MGS) variations for different temperature requirements
- Load ratings range from 1-4 lbs with natural frequencies around 18-20 Hz
- Ideal for protecting sensitive electronic components and instruments that require precise isolation
The LORD MGN/MGS Series Miniature mounts from LORD Corporation represent a critical solution for engineers tasked with protecting lightweight, sensitive components in aerospace and defense applications. These precision-engineered mounts combine superior vibration isolation with a compact form factor, making them ideal for space-constrained designs where performance cannot be compromised.
Design Features and Construction
The fundamental design of the LORD MGN/MGS Series centers on delivering consistent performance in a minimal footprint. Each mount utilizes a bonded sandwich construction that provides controlled stiffness in multiple directions.
Key design elements include:
- Bonded sandwich construction for uniform stress distribution
- Optional ferrules in plain or threaded configurations for installation flexibility
- Precision-engineered elastomer compounds optimized for specific temperature ranges
- Linear load-deflection characteristics through significant deflection ranges
Performance Characteristics
The LORD MGN/MGS Series delivers highly predictable isolation performance across a range of conditions. Their carefully tuned natural frequencies and damping characteristics make them particularly effective for sensitive electronics and instrumentation.
Critical performance specifications include:
- Load ratings from 1-4 lbs (0.45-1.8 kg)
- Natural frequencies of 18 Hz for MGN (natural rubber) and 20 Hz for MGS (silicone) variants
- Maximum dynamic input at resonance of 0.01 inches double amplitude
- Linear performance through normal operating ranges
Temperature Range Considerations
One of the key differentiators between the LORD MGN and LORD MGS variants is their temperature performance envelope. Engineers must carefully consider their application's temperature requirements when selecting between these options.
The temperature operating ranges are:
- MGN Series (Natural Rubber): -40°F to +180°F (-40°C to +82°C)
- MGS Series (Silicone): -65°F to +300°F (-54°C to +149°C)
Applications and Use Cases
The LORD MGN/MGS Series finds widespread use across aerospace and defense applications where precise vibration control is essential. Their compact size and reliable performance make them particularly valuable in several key areas.
Common applications include:
- Avionics equipment isolation
- Instrument panel mounting
- Electronic control unit protection
- Navigation system isolation
- Communications equipment mounting
Installation Considerations
Proper installation is crucial for achieving optimal performance from LORD MGN/MGS Series mounts. Engineers should carefully evaluate mounting configurations and loading conditions during the design phase.
Key installation factors include:
- Mounting orientation relative to primary vibration axes
- Load distribution across multiple mounts
- Accessibility for maintenance and inspection
- Clearance for maximum expected deflection
- Environmental exposure considerations
Selection Guidelines
Choosing the right variant and size of MGN/MGS mount requires careful evaluation of several key parameters. Engineers should consider both immediate requirements and potential future operating conditions.
Critical selection factors include:
- Maximum expected static and dynamic loads
- Required natural frequency and isolation performance
- Operating temperature range
- Available mounting space
- Environmental exposure conditions
- Service life requirements
Related: Read our Guide to Parker LORD Vibration Isolation Mounts.
Testing and Validation
LORD Corporation conducts extensive testing on MGN/MGS Series mounts to ensure consistent performance and reliability. Understanding these test protocols helps engineers verify application suitability.
Standard test procedures include:
- Static load-deflection characteristics
- Dynamic performance measurement
- Temperature cycling effects
- Accelerated life testing
- Environmental exposure testing
Integration with Other Systems
The MGN/MGS Series often functions as part of a larger vibration control strategy. Understanding how these mounts interact with other isolation components helps optimize overall system performance.
System integration considerations include:
- Interface with structural supports
- Compatibility with nearby components
- Impact on system natural frequencies
- Overall isolation system effectiveness
- Maintenance access requirements
Maintenance and Inspection
While LORD MGN/MGS mounts are designed for long-term reliability, regular inspection helps ensure continued performance. Establishing appropriate maintenance protocols protects both the mounts and the equipment they isolate.
Recommended maintenance practices include:
- Visual inspection for physical damage
- Checking for proper load distribution
- Monitoring for environmental degradation
- Verifying proper mount compression
- Documenting performance changes
Final Thoughts
The LORD MGN/MGS Series Miniature mounts provide engineers with a proven solution for protecting sensitive components in aerospace and defense applications. Their combination of precise performance, compact size, and installation flexibility makes them an invaluable tool in the vibration control toolbox. By understanding their capabilities and application requirements, engineers can effectively integrate these mounts into their designs to achieve optimal protection for critical equipment.
Working with Modus Advanced for Aerospace and Defense Applications
Aerospace and defense projects that include vibration isolation components often require careful consideration of the entire system, including the housing and mounting structure. Modus Advanced brings particular expertise to these applications through our comprehensive approach to aerospace and defense projects.
Engineering-First Approach
Modus Advanced's engineering team, comprising over 10% of our staff, provides comprehensive technical support across all aspects of aerospace and defense projects. Our engineers work directly with customers from initial design through production, offering expertise in materials science, manufacturing processes, and system-level optimization.
This engineering-first mindset enables us to assist with critical decisions about material selection, manufacturing methods, and design optimization that can significantly impact project success.
When working with aerospace and defense customers, our engineering team provides invaluable insights into design for manufacturability, helping to identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
We understand the complex requirements of aerospace and defense applications, from material compatibility and environmental considerations to quality control and documentation requirements. This deep technical knowledge, combined with our practical manufacturing experience, helps ensure that designs move smoothly from concept to production while meeting all necessary specifications and standards.
Vertical Integration Benefits
When developing complex aerospace and defense components, traditional manufacturing approaches often require coordinating with multiple vendors for different processes, leading to extended lead times, increased shipping costs, and greater risk of quality issues or delays.
Modus Advanced's vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities eliminate these challenges by bringing critical processes under one roof, allowing us to maintain strict quality control while significantly reducing both production time and cost. This integration means customers can work with a single point of contact while having confidence that their components will meet specifications across all aspects of manufacturing.
Modus Advanced's vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities provide significant advantages for aerospace and defense projects:
- Complete in-house manufacture of housings and mounting systems
- Form-in-place gasket dispensing for environmental sealing
- EMI shielding integration
- Thermal management solutions
- Quality control across all manufacturing processes
This integration reduces lead times and ensures consistent quality across all components.
Quality and Security Standards
Our commitment to aerospace and defense requirements is demonstrated through our comprehensive certifications and standards:
- AS9100 certification
- ITAR registration
- ISO 9001 certification
- Working toward CMMC Level 2
- Strict quality control processes
These certifications ensure we meet the exacting standards required for aerospace and defense applications.
Partnership Approach
Rather than operating as a traditional supplier, Modus Advanced functions as a strategic partner in our customers' success. We engage early in the design process, providing technical insights and manufacturing expertise that help optimize designs for both performance and producibility. This collaborative approach often leads to significant improvements in design efficiency, reduced manufacturing costs, and accelerated time to market.
Our commitment to partnership extends throughout the entire project lifecycle, with ongoing support for quality improvement, process optimization, and problem resolution. We understand that aerospace and defense projects often evolve over time, and we maintain the flexibility to adapt our support as requirements change. This long-term perspective helps build lasting relationships that continue to deliver value for both parties.
