Abstract: Machinery and methods for making concrete blocks includes an open top and open bottom mold supported on a machine's frame when the mold is at rest. A pallet support beneath the mold is movable upwardly by means of a pallet lifter frame to clamp a pallet against the bottom of the mold. Upward movement of the pallet support is accompanied by upward movement of the mold off the frame to enable vibration of the mold without the generation of noise between the mold and the frame. A stripper head is supported above the mold for entry into the latter during vibration of the mold to assist in compacting moldable material within the mold. The stripper head is carried by a movable frame the movements of which are controlled by a cam and an interconnecting linkage, and the stripper head is vertically movable relative to the frame. Inflatable/deflatable cushions or absorbers are interposed between the stripper head and the stripper head frame to minimize noise.

Abstract: Apparatus for suppressing noise generated by a concrete or the like block making machine having a vibratable open bottom mold against the bottom of which the pallet is clamped to close the mold and provide a support for the molded block. The pallet support and the mold are sandwiched between yieldable, compressible, opposed force applying members which clamp the pallet to the mold and maintain the mold in a state of suspension during its vibration. The clamping of the pallet to the mold and the suspension of the mold greatly minimize noise generated by vibration of the mold.