Gas struts, also known as gas springs or gas lift supports, are mechanical devices designed to provide controlled and reliable force for lifting, lowering, and supporting various applications. These versatile components are commonly used in automotive, industrial, furniture, and aerospace industries.
Be sure to visit Ovesco to find out more about gas struts and hardware supplies. Understanding the components of a gas strut is essential for grasping its functionality and applications. In this exploration, we break down the key components that make up a gas strut.
- Cylinder:
– Overview:
The cylinder is the outermost component of a gas strut and serves as the housing for the internal components. It is typically a cylindrical tube, often made of steel or aluminium, designed to withstand the internal pressure created by the compressed gas.
– Materials:
– Steel: Steel cylinders are robust and provide durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
– Aluminium: Aluminium cylinders offer a lightweight alternative suitable for applications where weight is a critical factor, such as in automotive design.
– End Fittings:
The cylinder is equipped with end fittings at each end, which connect the gas strut to the objects it is supporting or manipulating. These end fittings may include mounting brackets or ball joints.
- Piston Rod:
– Overview:
The piston rod is a central component that extends from one end of the gas strut into the cylinder. It is connected to the piston, and its movement is controlled by the pressure of the gas inside the cylinder.
– Materials:
– Steel: The piston rod is often made of high-strength steel to withstand the forces and provide durability.
– Chrome Plating: Some piston rods may feature chrome plating for enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced friction.
– Seal and Bearing:
At the point where the piston rod enters the cylinder, there is a seal to prevent gas leakage and contaminants from entering. Additionally, a bearing may be present to facilitate smooth movement.
- Piston:
– Overview:
The piston is a crucial internal component that moves within the cylinder, creating a pressure differential and generating the force needed for the gas strut’s operation.
– Materials:
– Steel: The piston is commonly made of steel to withstand internal pressures and provide strength.
– Polymer Coating: Some pistons may have a polymer coating to reduce friction and wear.
– Seal and O-Rings:
The piston is fitted with seals and O-rings to maintain a gas-tight environment within the cylinder, preventing gas leakage and ensuring optimal performance.
- Gas Charge:
– Overview:
The gas charge is a critical element that creates the pressure within the gas strut, influencing its lifting or supporting capacity. Nitrogen gas is commonly used due to its inert properties and stability.
– Pressure Regulation:
The pressure of the gas charge is carefully regulated during the manufacturing process to achieve the desired performance characteristics of the gas strut.
– Valve:
A valve is incorporated to control the flow of gas, allowing for adjustments to the pressure and providing a means for filling or releasing gas during servicing.
Understanding the intricate components of a gas strut provides insight into its functionality and aids in selecting the right type for specific applications. Whether supporting a car trunk, aiding in furniture movement, or facilitating controlled motion in industrial machinery, gas struts play a pivotal role in diverse industries by offering reliable and controlled force assistance.
