The working principle is based on polyamide clamp bodies following the Standard Series according to DIN 3015, Part 1 with a specially shaped, two-part elastomer insert, which mechanically absorbs vibrations in the pipe and as a result reduces noises arising to a minimum. The insert is in particular distinguished by how little of its surface is in contact with the pipe and clamp body, and as a result is far more effective than the previously known solutions. The tongue-groove contour of the insert and body, which is reversed and thus diverges from DIN 3015, enables the system to be used for the widest possible range of pipe diameters per clamp size, which contributes to flexibility and versatility.
Ulrich König, Chief Research and Development Officer (CRDO) of the STAUFF Group: "This patented systems permits combining the absorbing properties of the clamp, which are so vital for this application, with the pipe retaining forces required. Thanks to the functional design, we have expanded the possibilities of DIN 3015 without deviating from it in the dimensions relevant for the installation."
The advantage for the user: NRC clamps are completely compatible with the commonly used steel or stainless steel mounting hardware, and if necessary can simply be replaced or retrofitted.
Particularly in the field of civil shipping, i.e. on cruise ships as well as yachts and sport boats, effective noise damping has become important in recent years as a criterion in the planning of machinery, devices and systems, and selecting the corresponding components, since it does after all make a great contribution to comfort and facilitates communication on board. Furthermore, it is known that noise emissions can have grave effects on a wide range of maritime animals.
Ship-owners and shipping yards around the world are increasingly following this trend and are putting reduced thresholds for noise and vibrations in place. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has also dealt with the determination of noise thresholds, e.g. for engine and control rooms as well as for crew quarters and for the reduction of underwater noise, in order to protect the environment.
The rising demands of industry on the reduction of noise emissions for mobile and stationary applications in harbour and loading areas as well as other areas of use is equally relevant, also against the background of the cross-industry guidelines of the "Outdoor Directive" 2000/14/EC ("Noise emission in the environment by equipment for use outdoors") and the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.
Apart from the regular NRC clamps, Stauff also provides another version especially for use on the high seas, which is made completely out of flame resistant materials according to international standards and directives, and meets the demanding requirements with regards to preventive fire protection.
In addition, all of the materials used by Stauff are distinguished by their outstanding durability, e.g. against seawater, mineral oil and other oils and a wide temperature range used.