Gas Springs Glossary
General Questions
- What is a gas spring? Gas spring is a mechanism consisting of a piston rod and a tube(cylinder) body filled with high-pressure nitrogen gas, where the rod moves within the tube. These gas springs are typically used to assist in lifting or controlling objects, such as a cover. The gas pressure inside contributes to the lifting or controlling function by applying force on the piston rod. Gas springs have a wide range of applications, from industrial equipment to automotive uses.
- How does a gas spring work? The output forces result from the difference between the pressure inside the cylinder and the atmospheric pressure outside the cylinder, acting on the cross-section of the piston rod. As the piston or rod compresses into the cylinder, the internal pressure increases based on the volume of gas displaced by the rod. This increase in force is known as the “K-Factor.” Because they rely on simple pressure differences, gas springs perform the same way on land as they do in the vacuum of space.
- What is the K-Factor? The K-Factor is the ratio between the compressed force (P2) and the extended force (P1). Governed by Boyle’s Law, the P2 force is always greater than the P1 force. During compression, as the piston/rod enters the cylinder, it decreases the volume of gas inside the cylinder, thereby increasing the pressure and consequently the force of the spring.
- What are Gas Springs, Gas Struts, Gas Shocks, Gas Asist Struts, Gas Supports, Gas Lifts, Gas Props and Gas Lifts? A gas spring, strut, or gas support is a mechanical product used in applications where objects need to be supported, lifted, or have their motion dampened. It typically consists of a rod inside a tube filled with compressed nitrogen gas. Gas springs are designed to produce force by compressing the gas inside the cylinder. When the piston rod is pushed into the cylinder, the gas compresses, increasing the pressure inside the cylinder. The pressure difference between the inside of the tube and the outside atmosphere creates a force used to support or move objects. These products are commonly used in various industries and applications, such as automotive hoods and trunk lids, furniture, aerospace equipment, medical devices, and industrial machinery. They are valued for their smooth operation, consistent force output, and ability to provide controlled motion without the need for external power sources.
- In which fields are gas springs used? Gas springs are used in various fields, including automotive, furniture, industrial machinery, medical equipment, aerospace, defense, energy sector, and construction.
- What precautions should be taken when using gas springs?
- Do not refill or adjust the pressure of gas springs. Such interventions can cause the gas spring to explode or lead to serious accidents.
- Never disassemble, weld, melt, heat, or modify gas springs. Gas springs contain high-pressure gas. Ignoring this precaution can result in serious damage due to the explosion of internal parts.
- Before disposing of a gas spring, wear protective goggles and ensure the gas is released from the cylinder. Before disposal, completely cut the mounting bolt hole and verify that all nitrogen gas has been released.
- The use of gas springs is prohibited under the following conditions:
- Ignoring these precautions can result in gas leakage and other issues.
- The gas spring may explode or cause serious accidents.
Potential Issues When Using Gas Springs
- Mounting a gas spring onto a structure or vehicle
- Disassembling, welding, melting, heating, or modifying a gas spring
- Grinding the tube or rod
- Forcing the gas spring to operate at excessive speeds
- Using the gas spring at high temperatures above 40°C or low temperatures below 0°C
- Refilling or adjusting the pressure of the gas spring
- Exposing the gas spring to moisture, steam, or chemicals
- Using large amounts of lubricant (especially chlorine-based lubricants)
- Scratching the piston rod
- Allowing abrasive particles or metal fragments to adhere to the piston rod
- Allowing welding spatter to adhere to the piston rod
- Cutting the piston rod
- Deforming the contact surface of the piston rod
- Applying uneven pressure on the contact surface of the piston rod
- Attaching an extension pin to the end of the piston rod
- Failing to secure the gas spring with bolts
- Applying angled or horizontal loads to the gas spring
- Using the gas spring for unintended purposes
- What is the difference between a gas spring and a gas damper? Gas springs use internal pressure to create movement and provide pushing force to open a lid at a desired speed. Gas dampers, on the other hand, are used to control or slow down movement. They facilitate the opening of a door or lid while controlling the closing motion to prevent sudden drops.
- What is the stroke length of a gas spring? The stroke length is the maximum distance the rod can move from its closed position inside the tube to its fully extended position outside the tube. Simply put, it is the maximum distance the rod can travel.
- What is the extended length of a gas spring? This is the total length of the gas spring measured from the center of one end fitting to the center of the other end fitting when the spring is fully extended.
- What is the compressed length of a gas spring? This is the total closed length of the gas spring, measured from the center of one end fitting to the center of the other end fitting. If no end fittings are specified, this measurement covers the length from the rod end to the tube end.
- What is the beadroll/Groove section? This is the grooved part of the tube. It is used to hold the bearing in place, enhance sealing, and prevent damage to the internal components of the gas spring during extension.
Technical Questions
- What is the internal structure of a gas spring? It includes a tube, rod, sealing products, piston, bearing, o-ring, gas, and hydraulic fluid.
- What gas is used in gas springs? Typically, nitrogen gas is used.
- What is the pressure level of gas springs? The pressure level varies depending on the application and purpose of the product.
- What is the lifespan of gas springs? It varies based on usage and environmental conditions, typically ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 km.
- How is maintenance performed on gas springs? Generally, they require no maintenance, but leakage checks should be performed.
Performance Questions
- How do gas springs perform in hot weather? Increased temperatures can reduce performance, so attention should be paid to temperature tolerances.
- How do gas springs perform in cold weather? Cold weather can increase the viscosity of the internal fluid.
- Is it normal for gas springs to make noise? No, they usually operate silently. Noise indicates a potential problem.
- How do gas springs absorb shocks? They absorb shocks through the compression of gas and the resistance of hydraulic fluid.
Installation and Replacement Questions
- How is a gas spring installed? It should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- How can you tell when a gas spring needs replacement? Signs include reduced performance, leakage, or abnormal noises.
- Is replacing a gas spring difficult? It can be done with proper equipment and knowledge, but professional assistance is recommended.
- What problems can arise from incorrect installation of gas springs? Incorrect installation can lead to performance loss, excessive wear, and safety issues.
- What should be considered during the installation of gas springs? Correct pressure, appropriate positioning, and adherence to manufacturer instructions are important.
Price and Cost Questions
- How much do gas springs cost? Costs vary based on dimensions, connections and diameters.
- Are gas springs more expensive than other types of springs? Generally, yes, but their performance benefits can justify the cost.
- What is the maintenance cost of gas springs? They typically require no maintenance, but there may be costs associated with replacements in case of failure.
- What is the cost over the lifespan of gas springs? Due to their long lifespan, the total cost may be lower compared to other types of springs.
- What should be considered when purchasing gas springs? Quality, manufacturer reliability, and warranty terms are important factors.
Special Use Questions
- Are gas springs used in off-road vehicles? Yes, they are preferred for their durability and performance.
- Are gas springs used in caravans? Yes, due to the abundance of cabinets, hatches, and hidden spaces, gas springs are essential in caravans.
- How are gas springs used in medical equipment? They are used to provide comfort and stability in hospital beds and wheelchairs.
- How are gas springs used in furniture? They provide smooth opening and closing for chairs, tables, and beds.
Troubleshooting Questions
- What are the most common failures in gas springs? Leakage, pressure loss, and mechanical wear.
- How can you detect leakage in gas springs? Leakage can be detected through visual inspection and oil stains.
- How can you identify pressure loss in gas springs? Pressure loss can be identified by reduced performance and softer spring movement.
- What should be done in case of gas spring failure? The faulty part should be replaced or repaired.
- Is it possible to repair a gas spring? In some cases, yes, but replacement is generally recommended.
Performance and Testing Questions
- How can the performance of gas springs be tested? Performance can be evaluated through movement tests and laboratory tests.
- How are pressure tests for gas springs conducted? Pressure tests are conducted using special equipment to measure gas pressure.
- How is the durability of gas springs tested? Durability is tested through long-term use simulations and stress tests.
- What are the factory tests for gas springs? Various mechanical and performance tests are conducted according to manufacturer standards.
Application and Usage Questions
- What types of vehicles most commonly use gas springs? Cars, light commercial vehicles, military vehicles, agricultural machinery cabins, all kinds of caravans, etc.
- What is the load-bearing capacity of gas springs? It varies by model and design, but they generally have high load-bearing capacities.
- How resistant are gas springs to environmental factors? Most models are resistant to water, dust, and corrosion.
- What is the operating temperature range for gas springs? They typically operate between -30°C and 80°C.
- What is the vibration damping capacity of gas springs? They have a high vibration damping capacity.
Gas Springs and Other Shock Absorbers
- What is the difference between a gas spring and a hydraulic shock absorber? Gas springs use gas pressure, while hydraulic shock absorbers use fluid pressure.
- What is the difference between a gas spring and a twin-tube shock absorber? Gas springs can be single-tube, whereas twin-tube shock absorbers have two separate tubes.
- What is the difference between gas springs and coil spring shock absorbers? Gas springs use gas pressure, while coil spring shock absorbers use mechanical springs.
- How does the lifespan of gas springs compare to other shock absorbers? Gas springs generally have a longer lifespan.
- What is the price-performance ratio of gas springs? Gas springs typically offer a high price-performance ratio.
Types of Gas Springs
Standard Gas Springs:
- Standard gas springs have a piston connected to a rod inside a sealed tube filled with high-pressure nitrogen gas, providing extension forces.
- They are compact and useful in many lifting and balancing applications.
Adjustable Locking Gas Springs:
- Locking gas springs allow the piston rod to be locked at any point along its stroke. The locking mechanism is activated by a pin connected to the rod. When the pin is pressed, the rod behaves like a compression gas spring and locks in place when the pin is released.
- Components include the piston rod, tube, piston valve, and various internal parts.
Custom Design Gas Springs:
- Custom-designed gas springs are tailored for specific applications in various industrial sectors, engineered for maximum efficiency.
Safety Lock Sleeve Gas Springs:
- Safety lock gas springs feature an additional sleeve mechanism around the rod. This mechanism locks the gas spring when fully extended, providing a safety measure for its application.
Tension and Traction Gas Springs:
- Tension and traction gas springs apply force to maintain or provide tension in belt drives and mechanical mounts, operating opposite to compression gas springs. Available in various sizes and strokes, they can be made from stainless steel and offer control and adjustment for tension needs.
Stainless Steel Gas Springs:
- These gas springs are optimal for corrosive environments and come in various types, such as compression and locking. Made from 316-grade stainless steel, they are widely used in the food and yacht industries. Unlike micro gas springs, all stainless steel gas springs can have a discharge valve for gas release during adjustment.
Newtone Gas Springs is able to supply you with lead-free material of gas springs, connection parts, end fittings and all the parts of gas springs.
Advantages of Gas Springs
- High Force Range: Up to 10,000N.
- Variety of Designs and Sizes: Adaptable to different applications.
- Unlimited Cycle Life: Durable for prolonged use.
- No External Power Required: Operates independently.
- Wide Angular Usage: Can be used at angles greater than 90 degrees.
- Quiet Operation: Silent performance.
- Cost-Effective: Economical in the long run.
Detailed Benefits:
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep compared to traditional coil springs. The sealed design simplifies maintenance.
- Long Lifespan: Typically last longer than other types of springs, withstanding up to 100,000 cycles.
- Locking Mechanism: Provides secure positioning at any stroke length, enhancing versatility.
- Ergonomics: Offers smooth and controlled movement, ideal for ergonomic furniture applications.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Compatible with various connection types for easy integration into different systems.
Applications of Gas Springs
Standard Gas Springs:
- Used in industrial and agricultural equipment, adjustable chairs, recreational vehicles, lids and access panels, travel and cargo trailers, automotive hoods, kitchen furniture, industrial products, machine lids, agricultural vehicles, defense vehicles, marine equipment, aircraft, and the construction and energy sectors.
Adjustable Locking Gas Springs:
- Used in hospital beds, hospital furniture, passenger seats, emergency patient stretchers, and specialized tables.
Custom Gas Springs:
- Employed in UAV launchers, MRI machines, garage doors, construction equipment, and nearly all sectors. Specially long stroke gas springs are in custom gas springs at Newtone Gas Springs.
Safety Lock Sleeve Gas Springs:
- Used in lifting aid applications, LCD screen supports, automotive applications, medical equipment, and vehicle buffets.
Tension and Traction Gas Springs:
- Utilized in aerospace applications, oil dampers, truck tailgates, furniture, and cabinets.
Stainless Steel Gas Springs:
- Applied in food and laboratory settings and marine-based applications. Stainless steel gas struts or gas springs are very popular in marine industry.
These diverse applications make gas springs widely used in industrial, automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and other specialized fields.
Gas Spring Connections / End fittings / Head Types and Mounting Options
Gas springs offer various connection and mounting options to suit different applications. People calls them end fittings for gas springs, connection parts of Gas Springs, Mounting parts of gas springs. These connection parts are divided into two main groups: metal and plastic.
Metal Connectors, Connection Parts – Metal End fittings of Gas Springs
- Metal Ball Joint Connectors
- Known as a spherical head that allows multi-axis rotation. The spherical bearing includes a ball end with an integrated threaded stem.
- Metal Clevises / Fork – End Connectors
- These include matching fork mounts for secure attachment.
- Metal Brackets
- Ensure sturdier operation and better angles for the gas spring where it is mounted.
- Metal Eyelet Connectors / Heads / End Fittings
- Allow the pin at the connector point to be passed through the holes in the connection for mounting.
Newtone Gas Springs is able to supply you with lead-free material of gas springs, connection parts, end fittings and all the parts of gas springs.
- Plastic End Fittings / Plastic Connector Parts for Gas Springs
- Available in various types. Different models can be used depending on the mounting location. There are many different type of plastic end fittings for gas springs applications.
- Conical Tip
- On the tube side, a conical tip is mounted into a conical hole for a tight fit.
- Threaded Mount
- In this mount, the ends have standard threads for mounting or accessory connections.
User Questions
- Are gas springs safe to use?
- Yes, they are quite safe with proper installation and use.
- How do gas springs perform over long periods?
- With proper use and if made with quality materials, they can be used for a long time without issues.
- How do gas springs perform in racing conditions?
- High-performance gas springs provide excellent performance in racing conditions.
- Can the stiffness of gas springs be adjusted?
- Some models come with adjustable stiffness options.
- Can gas springs be used in heavy-duty vehicles?
- Yes, there are models with high load-bearing capacities.
Installation and Compatibility Questions
- Are gas springs compatible with all vehicles?
- The appropriate gas spring should be chosen according to the vehicle model.
- Is special equipment required for gas spring installation?
- Yes, special mounting equipment is usually required.
- How long does it take to install a gas spring?
- It can vary depending on the application and the type of connection parts of the gas spring.
Performance Evaluation Questions
- What tests are gas springs subjected to?
- They undergo various tests such as durability, performance, and stress tests.
- How is the performance of gas springs measured?
- Through road tests, laboratory tests, and customer feedback.
- Does the performance of gas springs get affected by seasonal changes?
- Yes, temperature changes can affect performance.
- How can the performance of gas springs be optimized?
- Through proper installation, regular inspection, and appropriate use.
- In what conditions do gas springs show the best performance?
- In standard road conditions and optimal temperature ranges.
Purchase and Warranty Questions
- What should be considered when buying gas springs?
- Brand, model, warranty period, and price.
- Are gas springs covered under warranty?
- Most manufacturers provide a warranty, usually for 1 years. But Newtone providing a warranty period for 2 years in some gas springs.
- What is the warranty period for gas springs?
- It varies by manufacturer, typically 1 year.
- What does the warranty cover for gas springs?
- Manufacturing defects and early failures are generally covered under warranty.
- What should be done if gas springs are out of warranty?
- They should be repaired or replaced at authorized service centers.
Manufacturer and Brand Questions
- What are the best gas spring brands?
- Stabilus, Suspa, Bansbach, Newtone are known as the best gas spring suppliers worldwide. Newtone Gas Springs is Specially in Turkey, Europe, in Southern America, in the middle east and USA one of market leader.
- What materials are used in the production of gas springs?
- High-quality steel, aluminum, and composite materials.
- Newtone Gas Springs is able to supply you with lead-free material of gas springs, connection parts, end fittings and all the parts of gas springs.
- What is the production process of gas springs like?
- They are produced with high-precision machines and quality control processes.
- Where are gas springs manufactured?
- They are manufactured in various factories worldwide. In Europe, companies like Stabilus, Bansbach, and Newtone Gas Springs are some of top and premium players in this industry.
- What are the most important quality criteria in gas spring production?
- Durability, performance, precision, and customer satisfaction.
Malfunction Symptoms and Solutions
- What are the most common symptoms of gas spring malfunctions?
- Performance drop, leakage, abnormal noises, and irregular ride.
- Why do abnormal noises occur in gas springs?
- It can be due to wear and tear of internal parts or fluid leakage.
- How to fix performance drops in gas springs?
- The faulty parts should be replaced or repaired.
- How to repair pressure loss in gas springs?
- Usually, gas refilling is not performed, and a new gas spring needs to be installed.
Environmental Effects and Durability
- Are gas springs water-resistant?
- Most models are water-resistant, but prolonged exposure to water should be avoided.
- Are gas springs dust-resistant?
- They can be used in dusty conditions but require regular cleaning.
- Are gas springs corrosion-resistant?
- They are generally protected with anti-corrosion coatings. But if you want to protect your gas springs from a corrosion, please contact us to get stainless steel quality of Gas springs by Newtone.
- How does the lifespan of gas springs get affected by environmental conditions?
- Extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions can shorten their lifespan.
- How does high humidity affect the performance of gas springs?
- Humidity can cause internal parts to rust, but most models have moisture protection.
Long-Term Usage Questions
- Can gas springs be used for a long time?
- Yes, with proper maintenance, long-term use is possible.
- What should be done to extend the lifespan of gas springs?
- Regular maintenance and proper use extend their lifespan.
- What should be done when gas springs are old?
- They should be replaced with new ones.
- How often should gas springs be replaced?
- Depending on usage conditions, between 50,000-100,000 km.
- What factors shorten the lifespan of gas springs?
- Overloading, improper installation, incorrect product design, and poor-quality materials.
Innovations and Technological Developments
- What are the latest innovations in gas springs?
- Electronically controlled gas springs and adaptive suspension systems.
- What are the latest technologies used in gas springs?
- Electronic control, automatic adjustment, and more durable materials.
- What do R&D studies focus on in gas springs?
- Better performance, longer lifespan, better movements.
- What is the biggest development in gas springs?
- Electronically controlled and adaptive suspension systems.
- What are the future trends in gas springs?
- Smarter, more durable, and more environmentally friendly gas springs.
Special Conditions and Applications
- Can gas springs be used in marine vehicles?
- Yes, especially stainless steel gas springs are used in marine equipment. Newtone Gas springs is specialized in 316 stainless steel gas struts.
- Can gas springs be used in aircraft?
- Yes, they are used in airplanes and helicopters.
- Can gas springs be used in construction machinery?
- Yes, they are used in construction machinery that requires durability and performance.
- Can gas springs be used in trains?
- Yes, they provide comfort and stability in railway vehicles.
- Can gas springs be used in agricultural machinery? – Yes, they are used for vibration damping and comfort in agricultural machinery.
User Experiences and Feedback
- Are users generally satisfied with gas springs? – They generally receive positive feedback.
- What are the most liked features of gas springs? – Comfort, durability, and performance.
- What are the most common complaints about gas springs? – High cost and installation difficulty.
- What problems do gas spring users face? – Leakage, pressure loss, and installation issues.
Education and Information
- Is it possible to get training on gas spring installation? – Yes, many manufacturers provide training on this subject.
- Is it possible to get information on gas spring maintenance? – Yes, user manuals and online resources are available.
- Is it possible to get information about gas spring performance? – Yes, manufacturer websites and user reviews are good sources of information.
- Is it possible to get information on gas spring failures? – Yes, technical services and user forums provide information on this subject.
- Where to get more information about gas springs? – www.newtonegs.com
Environment and Sustainability
- What are the environmental impacts of gas springs?
- They may have environmental impacts during production and waste management processes.
- Are gas springs recyclable?
- Yes, many parts of gas springs are recyclable.
- Are there eco-friendly versions of gas springs?
- Yes, there are models made with environmentally friendly materials.
- How is the environmental sustainability of gas springs?
- Environmental impact can be reduced through longer lifespans and the use of recyclable materials.
- Are environmentally conscious approaches used in the production of gas springs?
- Yes, many manufacturers use environmentally friendly production techniques.
Gas Springs and Safety
- Are gas springs safe?
- Yes, they are quite safe with proper installation and use.
- What are the safety tests for gas springs?
- Safety is evaluated through various stress and performance tests.
- What should be considered for the safe use of gas springs?
- Proper installation, regular maintenance, and appropriate use.
- Is there a risk of gas springs exploding?
- No, there is no risk of explosion under normal usage conditions.
- What are the safety standards for gas springs?
- They must comply with international and local safety standards.
Applications and Examples
- How are gas springs used in the automotive industry?
- They are widely used in suspension systems.
- How are gas springs used in industrial machinery?
- For vibration damping and motion control.
- How are gas springs used in the furniture industry?
- To provide comfort and smooth movement.
- How are gas springs used in medical devices?
- For stability and comfort in hospital beds and wheelchairs.
- How are gas springs used in sports equipment?
- To provide vibration damping and motion control.
Future of Gas Springs
- What will be the future uses of gas springs?
- Development of smarter and more efficient models is expected.
- What are the innovations in gas springs?
- Electronically controlled and adaptive suspension systems.
- What are the future trends in gas springs?
- More durable, lighter, and more environmentally friendly models.
- What could be the future developments in gas springs?
- Advanced materials and smart control systems.
- What are the future performance expectations of gas springs?
- Higher performance, longer lifespan, and lower cost.
Alternative Products and Comparisons
- What are the alternative products to gas springs?
- Hydraulic dampers, coil springs, and electromechanical dampers.
- How do gas springs compare to hydraulic dampers?
- Gas springs generally offer better performance and comfort.
- How do gas springs compare to coil springs?
- Gas springs provide a smoother ride and better road holding.
- How do gas springs compare to electromechanical dampers?
- Gas springs are usually simpler and cheaper, but electromechanical dampers offer more advanced control.
- What are the differences between various types of gas springs?
- Single-tube, dual-tube, and adjustable models serve different purposes.
Miscellaneous Questions
- What tools are needed for installing gas springs?
- A set of wrenches, a torque wrench, and sometimes special mounting equipment.
- What is the production cost of gas springs?
- It varies depending on the materials used and production processes.
- How can the durability of gas springs be increased?
- By using high-quality materials and proper design.
- How can the performance of gas springs be optimized?
- Through correct installation, regular maintenance, and appropriate use.
- How is the recycling of gas springs done?
- By separating recyclable parts and sending them to appropriate recycling facilities.
Force Calculation of Gas Springs
The force calculation of gas springs determines how much force the spring can exert or withstand in a specific application. This calculation is crucial for selecting and using the gas spring correctly. Here are the basic concepts and steps related to the force calculation of gas springs:
Force Calculation of Gas Springs
The force calculation of gas springs is based on factors such as the pressure of the gas compressed inside the spring and the piston area. This calculation is necessary for the gas spring to function correctly and provide the desired performance.
Basic Concepts
- Pressure (P):
- The gas in gas springs is maintained at a specific pressure, usually expressed in psi (pounds per square inch) or bar.
- Piston Area (A):
- The surface area of the piston inside the spring, usually measured in square inches or square centimeters.
- Force (F):
- The force applied by or resisted by the spring, expressed in Newtons (N) or kilogram-force (kgf).
Force Calculation Formula
The force in gas springs is calculated by multiplying the gas pressure by the piston area. This is expressed by the formula:
F=P×AF = P \times AF=P×A
Where:
- FFF = Force (N or kgf)
- PPP = Pressure (psi or bar)
- AAA = Piston Area (square inches or square centimeters)
Example Calculation
For example, if a gas spring has a pressure of 100 psi and a piston area of 2 square inches, the force calculation would be:
F=100 psi×2 in2=200 lbfF = 100 \, \text{psi} \times 2 \, \text{in}^2 = 200 \, \text{lbf}F=100psi×2in2=200lbf
To express this force in Newtons, use the conversion factor (1 lbf ≈ 4.44822 N):
F=200 lbf×4.44822 N/lbf≈889.64 NF = 200 \, \text{lbf} \times 4.44822 \, \text{N/lbf} \approx 889.64 \, \text{N}F=200lbf×4.44822N/lbf≈889.64N
Other Factors
Other factors to consider in the force calculation of gas springs include:
- Temperature:
- The temperature of the gas can affect the pressure. Higher temperatures can increase pressure, while lower temperatures can decrease it.
- Stroke Length:
- The extension and compression distances of the spring can affect the applied force.
- Type of Gas:
- Different gases (e.g., nitrogen, air) have different pressure and force characteristics.
Application and Selection
The force calculation of gas springs is a fundamental step in selecting the right spring. This calculation determines how much force the spring will apply or withstand in an application. These calculations help engineers and technicians size and mount the springs correctly.
When selecting a gas spring, choose a model with the appropriate force capacity for the application’s requirements. Additionally, consider the operating conditions (e.g., temperature, environmental factors) and mounting methods of the spring.
In conclusion, the force calculation of gas springs is vital for the correct selection and safe, effective use. These calculations should be done carefully based on engineering principles.
GAS SPRING MOUNTING INFORMATION
Every gas spring contains a small amount of oil to lubricate the main seal and rod. This oil also provides end-of-stroke damping.
To keep the rod seal lubricated, a small amount of oil is used in every gas spring. When used with the rod pointing downwards, the oil remains in contact with the rod seal, improving sealing properties and preventing the seal from drying out.
Therefore, one of the main recommendations when incorporating gas springs into your design is to ensure they are used at an angle of less than 60 degrees from vertical.
The oil used in the gas spring is also beneficial for achieving high damping effect in the last few millimeters of the stroke. If the gas spring is not used with the rod pointing downwards, the piston will not pass through the oil at the end of the extension, and the damping effect will not occur.
If this is not possible and the gas spring must be used with the rod up or almost horizontal, a reservoir or fully damped gas spring should be specified. While these additional features increase the cost of the spring, they ensure the gas springs achieve maximum working life.
DO’S
- Use standard gas springs with the rod pointing down.
- If storing before use, store the gas spring with the rod pointing down to lubricate the seal.
- Use ball joints to avoid lateral forces. If using a clevis, ensure a loose fit to allow lateral movement.
- Ensure end fittings are aligned to prevent lateral forces from misalignment.
- Prefer short springs near the hinge to longer stroke springs.
- Provide physical stops to prevent over-compression or over-extension of the spring.
- Ensure end fittings are fully threaded.
- Ensure ball joint stems are aligned and tight.
DON’TS
- Do not lubricate the gas spring.
- Do not scratch, notch, bend, or paint the rod.
- Do not puncture or burn. Newtone provides a disposal service at minimal cost.
- Do not cycle more than 15 times per minute.
- Do not attempt to re-gas in any way. This is extremely dangerous.
- Do not allow external objects to apply lateral forces to the gas spring or end fittings.
If you want to get more efficiency from your current gas springs or use gas springs for a new project, please contact our engineering team. It is our pleasure to design the most suitable, most useful product for you.