Selecting a UAV vibration isolator by payload weight alone is risky.

We often receive enquiries with only one figure: “Camera payload: 5 kg” or “Payload weight: 8 kg.” That helps narrow the load range, but motor speed, center of gravity (CoG), mounting space and cable routing can all change the final selection.

In one HOAN aerial photography project, an 8.5 kg camera payload used four GR6-93C-A wire rope isolators. The weight was only the starting point.

Why 8.5 kg Does Not Mean 2.13 kg on Every Mount

For four load-bearing mounts:

Average load per mount = 8.5 ÷ 4 ≈ 2.13 kg

This assumes the CoG is centered. In practice, a heavy lens, gimbal motor or communication module can shift the load toward one side.

For a simplified two-row layout:

Front row load = W × (1/2 + x/L)
Rear row load = W × (1/2 − x/L)

Here, W is total isolated weight, X is CoG offset from the midpoint, and L is the distance between the two mounting rows.

This formula is only for preliminary static-load estimation on a reasonably rigid, regular mounting frame.

Engineering Tip: After installation, compare the static deflection of all four mounts. Uneven compression is often a sign that the CoG or mounting geometry needs another look.

Frequency Matters More Than “Soft or Hard”

Missing vibration data is common in UAV enquiries. Customers often know payload weight and dimensions but cannot provide motor RPM or a measured vibration spectrum.

Without frequency information, model selection remains preliminary.

A softer isolator is not automatically better. If the payload's natural frequency is close to a dominant motor or propeller excitation frequency, resonance can increase movement rather than reduce it.

We have encountered UAV applications that looked normal during a bench check but showed image shake during flight.

When measured data is unavailable, motor RPM, propeller configuration and operating-speed range are useful starting points.

Check Clearance and Cable Routing

A suitable isolator still needs enough room to move.

Camera frames, gimbals or nearby structures can restrict isolator travel. Tight power cables and RF cables can cause the same problem.

Warning: A stiff cable crossing the isolation interface can become a vibration bypass. Changing the isolator will not fix a rigid cable path.

Wire Rope or Rubber?

Both have suitable applications.

For lightweight consumer camera drones, rubber mounts may be the simpler solution. Wire rope isolators become more attractive for industrial UAV payloads where repeated shock, environmental durability and service life matter.

Where the HOAN GR Series Fits

HOAN manufactures several wire rope isolator families, and other series can also be used for UAV equipment.

For aerial cameras, mapping equipment and airborne communication payloads, however, the GR Series is usually our first reference because it offers multiple sizes and load ranges for compact installations.

The 8.5 kg camera project used four GR6-93C-A isolators. Another 8.5 kg payload may require a different model if its CoG, motor speed or mounting layout changes.

FAQ

Why does my UAV camera still shake after adding isolators?

Check excitation frequency, uneven loading, restricted travel and cable routing before changing the mount.

Can I simply divide the payload weight by four?

Only for an initial estimate. An offset CoG changes the load at each mounting point.

Should I choose the softest isolator?

No. Excessive softness can increase payload movement during maneuvering, takeoff or landing.

Can a wire rope isolator replace a gimbal?

No. The isolator reduces vibration entering the payload; the gimbal controls camera attitude.

Need a GR Series Recommendation?

Send HOAN your payload weight, mounting layout, available space, motor RPM or vibration data, and an installation drawing. These parameters are usually enough to narrow the GR Series options before prototype and flight testing.