Gas Spring Clarifications

Confusion exists regarding Dampers, Gas Struts, Gas Springs, Gas Shocks, and many other words used on a somewhat inter-changed basis. These terms in fact do distinguish different products. The fact that these products often look similar externally contributes to confusion and there are some basic parameters that apply to these products, such as length, stroke, and diameter.

Length:
From center of mounting to center of mounting point for the product. Typically, extended or compressed length specified. (EL in the diagram corresponds to extended length)

Stroke:
The amount of travel available in the product. (S in the diagram)

Diameter:
The device may have one or more diameters specified depending on the configuration. (Dr in the diagram corresponds to rod diameter, and Db corresponds to body diameter)

ASRaymond has an extensive portfolio of Counterbalance and Motion Control products.

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Dampers

Dampers provide no push or pull force; they only control the speed of movement through the stroke. Larger dampers are often referred to as Shock Absorbers as the high loads are “shocks”. Examples of applications where a damper is used: small flap doors and eliminate “slamming” of door.

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Gas Springs (also known as Gas Struts)

Gas pressure internal to the strut provides a push or pull force depending on configuration, but also contains a damping circuit typically to control the speed of motion through one or both directions of travel. Gas Springs are often referred to as Gas Struts, Gas Pistons, and Gas Shocks, among other names. Applications that use Gas Springs: Bus compartment doors, airplane overhead bins, and marine compartment doors.

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Nitrogen Gas Die Springs (Tool and Die)

These units provide substantially higher forces than Standard Gas Springs and traditionally much shorter strokes. Additionally, they do not offer any type of motion control or damping. Much like a simple Compression Spring, when uncompressed the speed is uncontrolled. Applications that use Tool and Die Gas Springs: Stamping press, where plates are separated after compression, and high-pressure valves.

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Mechanical Struts

Medical lab equipment doors, ground access hatches, roof access hatches, and off-road equipment hoods and hatches View Mechanical Strut Options >> The main difference between the products is the amount of force provided (linear push or pull force) and the level of motion control or damping available from the same product.

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