A Guide To Choosing The Correct Gas Springs

Choosing the Right Gas Spring: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting the appropriate gas spring can be a daunting task, considering the multitude of options available. These mechanical springs, which use compressed gas to store energy, find application in diverse industries like aerospace, automotive, marine, and industrial machinery. They are also found in everyday objects such as chairs, cabinets, and doors. To help you make an informed decision, we present a comprehensive guide to choosing the correct gas spring.

Understanding Gas Springs

Gas springs, also known as gas struts, gas lift springs, or gas shocks, are ideal for lifting or holding objects in a controlled manner. They work by utilizing compressed gas to store energy, enabling them to reduce the weight of an object and facilitate movement. Whether it's adjusting seat height in chairs, lifting the hatch on a car, or controlling the movement of machinery, gas springs provide reliable support.

Types of Gas Springs

When selecting a gas spring, the first consideration is the specific application. There are three primary types of gas springs:

1. Lift Gas Springs: These springs either extend or retract to provide a linear force in a single direction. They are commonly used in industries such as furniture, automotive, aerospace, and marine for holding objects in position or providing lifting assistance.

2. Lockable Gas Springs: Offering the additional feature of locking at any position within the stroke, lockable gas springs are crucial for maintaining specific positions. They are widely utilized in furniture, automotive, and medical equipment.

3. Dampers: Dampers are instrumental in controlling the movement of an object in both compression and extension directions. By restricting the flow of gas or oil within the cylinder, they ensure a controlled movement. Dampers are frequently employed in automotive, machinery, and aircraft applications.

Load Capacity

The second factor to consider is the load capacity of the gas spring. It is essential to select a spring that can handle the intended load safely and efficiently. Load capacity refers to the maximum weight that a gas spring can support while extended or compressed. It is generally recommended to choose a gas spring with a slightly higher load capacity than the weight of the object it will support.

Stroke Length

The stroke length of a gas spring is the distance it can travel from fully extended to fully compressed. Selecting the correct stroke length is crucial to ensure the gas spring fits the application properly. An insufficient stroke length can limit the object's movement, while an excessively long stroke length is not only inefficient but also fails to provide adequate support.

Mounting Orientation

Considering the mounting orientation is the fourth crucial factor. The gas spring's performance can be influenced by its orientation, be it horizontal or vertical. It is vital to select the appropriate orientation to ensure safe and efficient operation. Variables such as temperature, orientation, and speed of movement can impact a gas spring's performance.

End Fittings

The choice of end fittings is another key consideration. End fittings are the connectors that attach the gas spring to the supported object. Selecting the correct end fittings guarantees a secure fit for the gas spring in the application. Several types of end fittings are available, including ball joints, clevises, and threaded end fittings.

In conclusion, choosing the correct gas spring for your project may seem overwhelming, but considering these five factors will help you make an informed decision. Understanding the type of gas spring required, load capacity, stroke length, mounting orientation, and selecting suitable end fittings ensures safe and efficient operation. Optimal performance and improved functionality of your product are achievable with the right gas spring.