Damper

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Damper may refer to:

• A device that restrains the motion of a mechanism or brings a mechanism to rest:

• Dashpot, a type of hydraulic/mechanical damper, a device which resists motion via viscous friction within a fluid
• Shock absorber (British: damper), a mechanical device designed to smooth out or damp a sudden shock impulse and dissipate kinetic energy

• A device that eliminates or progressively diminishes vibrations or oscillations (see also: damping)

In music:

• A device in various keyboard instruments for deadening the vibrations of the strings
• A mute for various brass instruments
• A damper or sustain pedal, a device that mutes musical tones, particularly in stringed instruments such as the autoharp or piano

In objects:

• Damper (mast), a device that damps oscillation in masts for better protection against storms
• Tuned mass damper, a device mounted in structures to prevent discomfort, damage or outright structural failure by vibration

• An adjustable plate, as in the flue of a furnace or stove, for controlling air flow

• Damper (architecture), a mechanical device in a flue or chimney that regulates airflow
• Zone dampers are automated dampers used to control the flow of air in HVAC systems

• Other:

• Damper (food), a food of the Australian Outback