Q&A: Nitrogen Gas Springs

Nitrogen gas springs, also known as gas struts or gas lifts, are essential components widely used in various industries and applications. These springs utilize the pressure of compressed nitrogen gas to provide controlled and consistent force for lifting, counterbalancing, or damping mechanisms. As their popularity and demand continue to grow, it's crucial to address some common questions and concerns surrounding nitrogen gas springs. In this Q&A compilation, we'll explore the fundamental aspects and practical applications of these versatile devices.

Q: What is the difference between specified and selectable types of nitrogen gas springs in terms of counterforce?

A: The specified type allows you to specify any counterforce for a particular size, while the selectable type offers multiple counterforce options for the same size. In essence, these series of nitrogen gas springs (including the head-mounted universal type and head-mounted limited type) work on the same principles, with the main difference lying in the connectors. Once you determine the connector type and size, you're good to go.

Q: Can nitrogen gas springs be customized to withstand high temperatures, like for usage at 200℃?

A: Nitrogen gas springs can be customized to withstand temperatures up to 200℃ without any specific quantity requirements. Achieving high-temperature resistance mainly involves using special materials for the sealing ring.

Q: If the load of a nitrogen gas spring does not meet the requirements during on-site usage, can it be adjusted manually?

A: ① Nitrogen gas springs cannot be manually adjusted for load. If load adjustment is needed, the spring must be sent back to our factory for professional handling.

② The load of a nitrogen gas spring can only be increased, not decreased, as it can only be filled with gas and not emptied.

③ Nitrogen gas springs come with either welding or threaded connectors, with welding connectors not supporting load adjustment.

Q: How long can a nitrogen gas spring remain effective under prolonged compression?

A: Generally, the theoretical lifespan of a nitrogen gas spring is around 30,000 cycles. When the gas spring is placed in a vertically downward position with the piston rod, it can be stored for approximately one year. However, during the storage period, it is essential to actuate it every three months to ensure its effectiveness. The first few uses after long-term storage might experience slightly higher friction due to dryness in the piston rod area, but it will return to normal after a few cycles.

Q: What does "maximum length-10mm stroke" and "maximum length-(s)mm stroke" mean in the catalog?

A: "Maximum length-10mm" refers to the maximum compression of 10mm, and "maximum length-S" corresponds to the maximum compression stroke.

Q: What does the counterforce of a nitrogen gas spring mean? Does it indicate the required load to compress the spring?

A: The counterforce refers to the spring's rebound force after compression, not the load required to compress the spring. The theoretical compression force is calculated as the initial counterforce multiplied by 1.4 to 1.5, and it represents the load needed to compress the spring.

Q: Can the white rod of a nitrogen gas spring rotate?

A: Yes, the white rod of a nitrogen gas spring can rotate. It can be easily turned by hand. If the counterforce of the gas spring is high, a small tool might be needed for rotation, as shown in the video.

Q: How does the counterforce of a nitrogen gas spring change? Is it directly proportional to the compression like a coil spring?

A: The change in counterforce of a nitrogen gas spring is different from that of a coil spring. While it also increases as it is compressed, the counterforce of a nitrogen gas spring does not change significantly from the beginning to the end. The theoretical counterforce at full compression is typically around 1.26 to 1.3 times the initial counterforce, and throughout this process, the counterforce of a nitrogen gas spring varies in a curved manner.

Q: How are the rod diameter and cylinder diameter of a nitrogen gas spring matched and combined? What size of cylinder can be used for a specific counterforce of the gas spring?

A: Refer to the table below:

Q: Why does a nitrogen gas spring start leaking oil after some time of usage? Is it a quality issue?

A: When the piston rod is installed in a downward position, it ensures internal oil lubrication, protects the sealing ring, and provides buffering effects. If the gas spring is used for an extended period in an upward position, the sealing ring can experience prolonged dry friction with the piston rod, which may lead to air and oil leakage and ultimately result in a loss of effectiveness. Therefore, it is crucial to install the gas spring with the piston rod facing downward to prevent such issues.

In conclusion, nitrogen gas springs play a vital role in countless industries and applications, providing precise and reliable force control for a wide range of purposes. Understanding the fundamental principles, safety considerations, and proper maintenance techniques is crucial to maximize their performance and lifespan. Whether you're involved in engineering, manufacturing, automotive, or any other field that requires force control, nitrogen gas springs can significantly enhance the efficiency and safety of your systems.

We hope this Q&A compilation has shed light on the key aspects of nitrogen gas springs and provided valuable insights into their practical applications. By applying this knowledge and understanding, businesses and individuals can harness the full potential of nitrogen gas springs and improve the overall performance of their projects. Embracing the power of nitrogen gas springs is a step forward in creating more efficient, reliable, and safe systems across various industries.

Want to learn more about gas spring information, you could check this article: Nitrogen Gas Springs Comprehensive Guide: You Need To Know