What is the Difference Between a Gas Spring and a Damper?

Gas Springs (sometimes called Gas Struts or Gas Shocks) and Dampers look similar but perform different tasks. ASRaymond, an expert in spring design for more than 135 years, has the answer for what each product is and how they are different.  

Gas Springs provide a force, while Dampers only provide a reactionary force to slow motion. For example, a Damper would prevent a lid from lowering quickly, whereas a Gas Spring is used to push a lid up.  

What is a Damper?  

SPD™ Dampers are devices that control the speed of a moving object. They provide a resistance force that is proportional to an object's velocity and always stays in contact with the moving object. They provide no force or lift assistance.   

What is a Gas Spring?  

SPD™ and IGS™ Gas Springs provide lift assistance. They provide some damping effects but are not true Dampers. Gas Springs help the user lift or open heavy hatches, lids, or doors.   

More information about each product and other spring-related information is available on our blog. Check them out!

About ASRaymond   

ASRaymond™, a business of Barnes Group Inc, is a global leader in providing manufacturers with precision-engineered force and motion control solutions from world-renowned brands such as Raymond®, Industrial Gas Springs™, SPD™, and SPEC®. Servicing a wide range of industrial markets, including Construction and Agriculture, Lift Equipment, Marine, Medical, and Heavy-Duty Trucks, ASRaymond has the breadth and depth of standard products to match any application's demands. Additionally, ASRaymond's global team of engineers is available to customize components when standard products are unsuitable. For more information, visit ASRaymond.com.