Why Are Traction Gas Springs Also Called Tension or Pull Type Gas Springs?

Traction Gas Springs; In the gas spring industry, the same product can sometimes be described in different ways. This is especially true for gas springs designed to work in the opposite direction of a standard compression gas spring.

Some manufacturers call them traction gas springs. Others use the term tension gas springs. In some cases, they are described more simply as pull type gas springs. Depending on the market, you may also come across phrases such as tension gas struts.

At first, this can seem confusing. Are these different products, or just different names for the same thing?

In most cases, these terms refer to the same basic product concept: a gas spring that works in pull direction rather than push direction. The difference is usually in terminology, not in the fundamental function of the product.

What is a traction gas spring?

A traction gas spring is a gas spring designed to apply force in the pulling direction. Unlike a standard gas spring, which pushes outward, a traction gas spring works by pulling inward.

That difference in force direction is what makes the product distinct.

In practical terms, a traction gas spring is used when the application needs retraction force rather than extension force. Instead of pushing a moving part open, it helps pull it into position. This makes it suitable for applications where the product must support controlled inward movement.

Why is it called a traction gas spring?

The word traction refers to pulling action. In technical language, traction is generally associated with force applied in a pulling direction.

That is why the name traction gas spring is commonly used. It clearly distinguishes the product from a standard compression gas spring, which works in push direction.

From a technical point of view, this is often the most direct and product-specific term.

Why do some people say tension gas spring?

The term tension gas spring is also widely used and widely understood. It comes from the same basic idea: the spring works under tension rather than compression.

In that sense, traction gas spring and tension gas spring usually describe the same type of product.

The difference is mainly one of wording. Some companies prefer the term traction because it sounds more specific in technical and catalog language. Others use tension because it feels more familiar or easier to understand in everyday communication.

What does pull type gas spring mean?

Pull type gas spring is a more descriptive expression. Rather than using a technical term like traction or tension, it simply explains how the product works: it applies force by pulling.

For that reason, some buyers, websites, or distributors use pull type gas spring when they want the meaning to be immediately clear.

Although it sounds less technical, it usually points to the same product category as traction gas springs and tension gas springs.

Are traction, tension, and pull type gas springs the same?

In most situations, yes. These names are generally used to describe the same basic product type.

They all refer to a gas spring that:

• works in pull direction
• provides retraction force
• is used where inward force is required
• functions differently from a standard compression gas spring

The main difference is in terminology.

That said, technical details can still vary depending on the manufacturer and the application. Force range, stroke, end fittings, locking function, material options, and product construction may differ from one design to another. So while the names often overlap, the actual specification should always be reviewed carefully.

How is a traction gas spring different from a standard gas spring?

This is the point that matters most in real applications.

A standard gas spring, also known as a compression gas spring, pushes outward. It is commonly used to lift, open, or support lids, covers, doors, and panels.

A traction gas spring, by contrast, pulls inward. It is chosen when the application needs the opposite movement logic.

In simple terms:

• compression gas spring = works in push direction
• traction gas spring = works in pull direction

This is the main reason different names exist. The terminology helps separate two products that work in different directions and serve different application needs.

Why are different names used in the market?

Different names continue to be used because the market does not always follow a single terminology standard.

Manufacturers, distributors, engineers, and buyers may describe the same product in slightly different ways depending on their background, region, or industry habits. One company may prefer traction gas spring, another may use tension gas spring, and another may choose pull type gas spring because it feels more descriptive.

That is why these terms often appear side by side, even when they refer to the same basic product concept.

Which term is the most accurate?

If the goal is technical clarity, traction gas spring is often the strongest term.

It is specific, professional, and closely linked to the product’s working principle. It clearly separates the product from compression gas springs and describes the pulling direction more precisely.

At the same time, tension gas spring is also a valid and widely understood term. It is not incorrect. It simply reflects a different naming preference.

Pull type gas spring is also understandable, but it usually sounds more explanatory than technical.

For that reason, many manufacturers use a structure like this when introducing the product:

traction gas spring (tension or pull type gas spring)

This helps keep the technical meaning clear while also matching the language different customers may already know.

Where are traction or tension gas springs used?

These products are used in applications where the system needs inward pulling force rather than outward pushing force.

Depending on the design, they may be used in:

• industrial equipment
• technical enclosures
• machine components
• medical systems
• access mechanisms
• special covers or movable assemblies
• custom engineered applications

In some cases, they are also available in lockable, stainless steel, or custom-built versions, depending on what the application requires.

What should buyers look at beyond the name?

The name is useful for identifying the product type, but the actual selection should always be based on the technical needs of the application.

Important points include:

• force range
• stroke
• overall dimensions
• installation geometry
• end fittings
• mounting brackets
• material options
• locking or non-locking function
• environmental conditions

So while terminology can help explain the product, proper technical evaluation is still what determines whether the selected spring is actually suitable.

Conclusion

The terms traction gas spring, tension gas spring, and pull type gas spring usually describe the same basic idea: a gas spring designed to work in pull direction rather than push direction.

The reason different names exist is mostly related to terminology preferences, market habits, and the way different users describe the same product. Among these options, traction gas spring is often the clearest technical term, while tension gas spring and pull type gas spring are also widely recognized and understood.

For engineers, buyers, and product designers, the most important point is not only what the product is called, but whether it matches the real requirements of the application.

Need help selecting the right traction gas spring?

If you are evaluating a traction gas spring, tension gas spring, or pull type gas spring for your project, our team can help you review the most suitable configuration based on your application requirements.