Leading Gas Spring Manufacturers

More Gas Spring Manufacturers

In contrast, standard mechanical springs rely on elastic deformation. While coil springs absorb impacts through their structure, gas springs absorb shocks through the pneumatic energy of high-pressure gas contained within a cylinder.

Gas springs operate similarly to air cylinders, utilizing a piston that compresses or extends depending on the pressure in the chamber.

Gas springs primarily serve functions such as shock absorption, dampening, and force exertion. They can replace mechanical springs to lift, lower, open, close, and adjust various components across diverse applications.

Industries such as aerospace, healthcare, office furniture, marine, and agriculture integrate gas springs into their products or manufacturing processes. In the automotive sector, they are crucial for tasks ranging from suspension and truck supports to hood mechanisms. Beyond these, gas springs find applications in landing gear for aircraft, tanning beds, and awning extensions.

Gas Springs – Industrial Gas Springs

History

The initial gas springs were patented in 1891 by Paul Giffard, a Parisian engineer who crafted them for firearms. His design enhanced the force with which handguns fired bullets through the pressure they generated. However, similar innovations had appeared in the United States as early as 1875, though they initially attracted little attention.

The popularity of gas springs surged in the mid-1900s when automotive engineers adapted them for use in car hoods and trunks. This sparked a global trend, leading manufacturers to explore their applications in various other fields.

Design

To construct gas springs, most manufacturers make use of 3D CAD drawings or similar design software for maximum precision.

Materials

Body Materials

Manufacturers typically produce gas springs from metals such as stainless steel and aluminum. Stainless steel gas springs are especially prevalent due to their corrosion resistance. However, other materials like EPDM synthetic rubber and polyurethane can also be used in their fabrication.

If the application demands it, manufacturers can enhance the spring material by applying chrome plating or black nitride coatings. These protective layers will offer additional resistance against environmental elements.

Gas Material

Manufacturers typically select either nitrogen or carbon for use in gas springs. Nitrogen gas springs are favored for their inert nature; nitrogen doesn’t react chemically, making it a stable choice. On the other hand, carbon gas springs are popular due to carbon’s generally harmless properties and its compatibility with industrial manufacturing processes.

Considerations and Customization

Designing a gas spring involves a careful balancing act. Manufacturers must factor in several key elements: the volume of gas anticipated to flow through the chamber, the specific requirements for actuation or vibration dampening of the application, and the wide range of pressures and velocities the spring will encounter. This is particularly crucial in machinery and automotive contexts, where precise control and durability are essential.

Considering these factors along with various application requirements, gas spring manufacturers tailor their designs to incorporate specific features. They customize aspects such as the spring size, which is influenced by the volume of gas expected to flow through the chamber; the lengths of the spring in both compressed and extended states; the load capacity; the maximum force exerted per minute; the maximum number of cycles per minute; the type of gas used within the cylinder; the absorber stroke; and the operating temperatures.

A gas cylinder’s size can vary dramatically, from compact two-inch lengths to imposing several feet. Its load capacity is equally diverse, spanning from just one hundred pounds to over eighty thousand pounds. Manufacturers typically tailor these cylinders based on their construction materials, which must withstand a range of environmental factors—such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and corrosive or hazardous chemicals—as well as physical stresses. Additionally, it must meet the standard requirements of the application. For instance, in pharmaceutical manufacturing or the food industry, the gas springs need to adhere to FDA regulations.

To find out more about your custom gas spring options, talk to your prospective suppliers.

Features

Gas springs share a common design and purpose but are versatile enough to be applied across various uses and come in numerous sizes. At their core, each gas spring consists of a cylindrical body housing a piston rod. Inside, O-rings or other seals ensure a tight fit, while intake and outlet valves regulate gas flow, and a gas reservoir maintains the necessary pressure.

The sleek, polished interior of the cylinder minimizes friction as it moves. The head piston, positioned at a right angle, ensures an airtight seal and divides the cylinder into two distinct compartments.

The rod stretches from the end of the cylinder and is connected to the piston. When pressure is applied to the spring, the rod plunges deep into the chamber. This action compresses the gas inside, which helps to cushion the impact. A familiar illustration of this mechanism is when a car rolls over a bump; the sudden jolt causes the car’s springs to briefly compress, absorbing the shock and smoothing out the ride.

Types

Gas springs come in a variety of forms, each designed for specific functions. For instance, compression gas springs help with pressing movements, while extension gas springs are used for pulling applications. Tension gas springs, on the other hand, are ideal for maintaining constant force in tension. Locking gas springs offer a feature that locks the spring in place when needed, and adjustable gas springs allow for customization of force and travel. Reducible gas springs are designed to adjust force as needed, whereas tool and die gas springs are tailored for industrial applications. Gas spring dampers are used for controlling motion with damping effects, and gas struts are versatile components used in applications like lifting and supporting. Lastly, lift gas springs are specifically designed to assist with lifting operations.

Compression gas springs provide cushioning by absorbing the force applied as the piston moves into the cylinder, creating a smooth and controlled motion.

Extension gas springs push the rod fully or partially out within the chamber, creating isolation in the process.

Tension gas springs are designed to maintain tension or handle pulling tasks, unlike regular gas springs, which are used for pushing. These tension springs are often found in furniture components such as cabinets, where they help manage movement and stability.

Locking gas springs are a specialized type of gas spring that can secure their rod in position once fully extended. Also referred to as lockable gas springs, these mechanisms are ideal for situations where precise control and sustained stability are crucial, such as in extended hospital beds.

Adjustable gas springs offer precise control by allowing users to stop the movement at any point, unlike regular gas springs which can only halt at full extension. These springs, often featuring locking mechanisms, provide enhanced flexibility and control. They are commonly found in hospital equipment such as beds, emergency gurneys, and seats, where their adjustable nature is particularly beneficial.

Reducible gas springs offer a unique way to adjust their performance. While in use, users can release some of the gas to modify the force exerted by the springs.

Tool and die gas springs operate without damping agents, yet they deliver greater force with shorter stroke lengths compared to standard gas springs.

Gas spring dampers are often mistaken for gas springs, although they differ significantly. The term “dampers” is frequently used to describe these components, leading to some confusion. Essentially, dampers are a type of gas spring designed to manage motion without the force of gas. Their primary function is to support moving loads and regulate their movement with precision.

Gas struts typically provide a pushing force.

Lift gas springs are designed specifically for applications where lifting is required.

Advantages

Gas springs vie with various mechanical spring types, including coil and leaf springs, as well as hydraulic and pneumatic systems. While all these alternatives are designed to store and release mechanical energy, they each employ distinct mechanisms and find use in different applications.

They present notable advantages over traditional coil springs. Primarily, they deliver a smoother and more controlled motion. Thanks to their built-in dampening effect, gas springs eliminate abrupt jolts and rebounds, which is essential for applications needing precise and stable movement, like in automotive suspensions and office chairs. They also boast a more compact and lightweight design, which simplifies their integration into different systems and contributes to reducing overall weight. This is particularly beneficial in automotive engineering, where lowering weight can significantly enhance fuel efficiency and performance.

Gas springs outshine leaf springs when it comes to versatility and adjustability. Leaf springs, with their inherent limitations, often fall short in applications requiring precise force or motion control. In contrast, gas springs offer extensive customization options, enabling engineers to fine-tune force and length to exact specifications. This adaptability makes gas springs a top choice in fields such as furniture design, aerospace, and industrial machinery, where precision and the ability to tailor performance are crucial.

When comparing hydraulic and pneumatic systems, gas springs stand out for their simplicity and reliability. Hydraulic systems involve fluid-filled chambers and pumps, which can be intricate and susceptible to leaks, demanding regular maintenance. Pneumatic systems, though simpler than hydraulics, are still more complex than gas springs. Gas springs, on the other hand, boast a straightforward design with minimal moving parts, which reduces the chances of mechanical failure and cuts down on maintenance needs. Additionally, gas springs don’t need a constant power source like their hydraulic or pneumatic counterparts, making them more energy-efficient and cost-effective for many uses.

In summary, gas springs stand out distinctly from their rivals due to their impressive functional benefits. Their ability to deliver smooth, controlled motion in a compact form makes them incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into a wide range of industries, including automotive, furniture, aerospace, and machinery. The precision with which they control force and movement, coupled with their reliability and ease of maintenance, positions them as a superior option compared to traditional coil springs, leaf springs, hydraulic systems, and pneumatic systems.

Accessories

Accessories for gas springs are essential for boosting their functionality and adaptability. They include items like nylon and stainless steel socket end fittings, O-ring seals, mounting brackets, ball receivers, and an array of connectors. Each of these components plays a vital role in optimizing the performance and application of gas springs.

Nylon Socket End Fittings

Nylon socket end fittings are crafted to deliver both a robust and adaptable link between a gas spring and its mounting location. The nylon construction enhances durability and wear resistance, contributing to an extended lifespan. These fittings are especially suited for scenarios demanding a smooth and quiet performance, such as in office chairs and medical devices.

Stainless Steel Socket End Fittings

Stainless steel socket end fittings are selected for their exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for demanding environments. Their robust design and ability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, marine settings, and exposure to chemicals make them indispensable in various industries. In fields like aerospace and heavy machinery, these fittings are valued for their durability and reliability, ensuring long-lasting performance even under challenging conditions.

O-Ring Seals

O-ring seals play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of gas spring cylinders by preventing gas leakage. These seals ensure a snug fit, which is essential for maintaining consistent pressure and protecting against contamination. This tight seal is key to the efficient and safe operation of the gas spring. Whether in automotive suspensions or industrial machinery, O-ring seals are indispensable for reliable performance and durability.

Mounts/Mounting Brackets

Mounts and mounting brackets serve as the crucial link between a gas spring and its designated structure or object. These accessories come in various designs, allowing for versatile positioning of the gas spring—whether upright, sideways, or at any angle needed. Selecting the right mount is essential for the gas spring to function optimally and align perfectly with the specific demands of the application.

Ball Receivers

Ball receivers are integral parts that form a ball-and-socket joint, offering a combination of flexibility and expansive motion to gas springs. They enable gas springs to pivot and rotate with ease, which is perfect for applications needing multidirectional movement, like automotive hoods and trunk lids.

Connectors of Various Kinds

Connectors play a crucial role in linking gas springs to different parts of a system. They come in a range of designs, such as eyelet connectors, clevis connectors, and threaded connectors, each tailored for specific attachment needs. The selection of a connector hinges on the particular requirements of the application and how the attachment is meant to function.

Determining whether you need specific accessories for your application hinges on the unique demands of your system. When working with gas springs, it’s crucial to evaluate several aspects: the load capacity required, the range of motion needed, the environmental conditions, and the level of flexibility and precision desired. For applications that involve unique mounting positions, heavy-duty requirements, or exposure to corrosive elements, accessories such as stainless steel socket end fittings and ball receivers could become indispensable.

To obtain these accessories, consider contacting specialized manufacturers, distributors, or suppliers of gas springs. These experts can offer a diverse selection of accessories and provide tailored advice to help you choose the perfect fit for your needs and application. Whether you’re looking for individual components or a comprehensive gas spring assembly kit, these sources make it easy to find what you need for your project. Additionally, online marketplaces and industrial supply stores also carry a range of gas spring accessories, offering further convenience in your search.

Proper Care

To ensure your gas springs have a long lifespan, proper care is essential. But what does it mean to give them the care they need?

To ensure their longevity and proper function, it’s crucial to use them only within the parameters they were designed for. Avoid exceeding their load capacities, exposing them to temperatures beyond their tolerance, or placing them in corrosive environments. Subjecting them to conditions for which they weren’t intended can lead to accelerated wear and potentially severe malfunctions that might render them unusable. Additionally, operating them outside their intended conditions poses safety risks.

To ensure your gas springs continue to perform optimally, it’s important to periodically inspect them. While they don’t need regular maintenance, keeping an eye out for any issues can help you catch problems early and maintain their efficiency.

When it’s time to replace your gas spring, start by releasing the pressure inside it. Next, drain any remaining fluid. If possible, recycle the spring to ensure proper disposal.

Standards

In the United States, the guidelines for designing and using gas springs are shaped by a range of influential agencies and organizations. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) plays a key role, crafting standards that cover everything from design to safety for these components. ANSI’s specifications ensure that gas springs meet rigorous requirements for quality and performance. Additionally, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) establishes global benchmarks that are frequently adopted or cited by U.S. regulators and industry groups, helping to align American practices with international norms.

Using gas springs that fail to meet established standards can lead to significant risks. These non-compliant springs might not handle the intended loads properly or could break down sooner than expected, potentially causing accidents or injuries. Furthermore, opting for substandard gas springs can result in poor performance, higher maintenance expenses, and possible legal issues. Adhering to recognized standards guarantees that gas springs fulfill rigorous quality and safety requirements, ensuring they are reliable, durable, and perform consistently well.

Using gas springs that adhere to established standards offers numerous advantages. Firstly, these standards signify that the gas springs have been subjected to thorough testing and evaluation, ensuring they perform reliably under specified conditions. This compliance fosters greater confidence in the product’s dependability, making it a favored option for engineers and designers across different industries. Also, meeting established standards boosts compatibility and interchangeability, making it easier to integrate gas springs into existing systems and applications. Standards-compliant gas springs typically come with clear documentation and user guidelines, simplifying installation and maintenance. In the end, adhering to recognized standards enhances safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. It also ensures that manufacturers, suppliers, and users align with regulations and industry best practices, promoting a responsible and accountable approach within the gas spring industry.

Things to Consider

To assist you, we’ve compiled a selection of reliable gas spring manufacturers that we highly recommend. You can locate these suppliers by scrolling down the page a bit. In that section, you’ll find their contact details, website links, and profiles.

Before you explore these manufacturers, it’s wise to spend some time crafting a detailed specifications list. Outline every aspect of your project, from your budget and timeline to your delivery preferences and post-delivery support needs, such as parts replacement and warranties. This will ensure you communicate your requirements clearly and find the best fit for your needs. After compiling your list, use it to identify which of our recommended suppliers align best with your needs. Based on your specifications, select three or four promising candidates and reach out to them to discuss your application. During your conversations, refer to your list to ensure you cover every detail. Once you’ve spoken with each manufacturer, evaluate and compare their services and pricing. Consider your options carefully and choose the company that best fits your requirements.