Gas Strut FAQs
What is the difference between panel weight and linear weight?
Panel weight refers to the gas strut being able to support and lift a specific component at various angles within an application. Whereas linear weight describes the general stock weight a gas strut can hold.
How to reduce the pressure in a variable force gas strut?
1. Using a 2mm allen key, undo the grub screw anti-clockwise a quarter turn and vent gas for 1 second, retightening the grub screw. Do not over tighten the grub screw.
2. Repeat this process on the second gas spring, venting an equal amount. Only release the pressure in short bursts to avoid venting too much gas. Each 1 second burst will lower the force by approximately 20N – 50N depending on the range.
3. Test the application by attempting to close the panel and repeat the venting process if the springs are still too powerful.
4. Once the gas springs have been adjusted, gently brush the grub screw with washing up liquid. If gas can be seen bubbling through the liquid then the grub screw requires further tightening.
How to recognise and measure end fittings?
Metrol offer various types of end fittings that can be used to securely attach your gas strut to its application. End fittings guide the movement of your strut, and each type allows it to be mounted in a certain way.
Gas strut ball ends– uses a ball stud and allows for slight movement to enhance smooth operation.
Eye end fittings– a circular shaped fitting that is fixed to the mounting point.
Clevis forks- provide movements similar to how a hinge does.
Rose eyes- maintains a secure attachment whilst allowing for movement angularly, great to cope with side loads and heavy-duty applications.
Gas strut mounting brackets- a secure fixing point for the gas strut end fittings to be attached to.
Pin release heads for pin locking gas struts- when actuated, the locking pin retracts inside the strut. Enables you to set the strut at fixed positions when needed.
What happens if I release too much gas out of a variable force gas strut?
If you have released an excessive amount of gas while adjusting the pressure of your gas struts, you can return them to our facilities for recharging at a nominal fee. For gas strut recharging, call 01604 499332 or email us at [email protected] to organise the return. We’ll make sure your gas strut gets recharged back to the desired force.
What are the benefits of traction gas struts?
One benefit of a traction gas strut is that they are low maintenance since they can be easily installed and are designed for long-term use. They have a minimal need for maintenance or replacements.
Another benefit of a traction gas strut is that they are versatile and suitable for various industries with applications requiring pulling forces. These industries include automation, furniture, machinery and more.
Traction gas struts are extremely durable as they come in both stainless steel 316 and standard steel. They can be customised to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Another benefit of traction gas struts is that you can easily adjust the force on the variable force range.
What is a traction gas strut
Traction gas struts operate oppositely to conventional push-type gas struts and are also known as pull-type gas struts. Installed in its closed position, opening the application causes the strut to extend, and attempt to close the application back to its resting state. Metrol can assist you with installing traction struts by adding rod spacer clips between each end of the piston to keep the strut extended. This restricts it from compressing, therefore making the installation process easier and safer for some assemblies as it can be installed in its open position.
Do Metrol gas struts come with warranty?
Yes, our fixed-force, variable-force, pin-locking, and stainless-steel gas struts are all covered by a 2-year warranty, while our traction gas struts have a 1-year warranty. To be eligible for a warranty claim, it’s essential to ensure that you haven’t voided it.
Warranty can be voided if:
– Using the gas strut in a way that it was not designed for or intentionally causing damage to it through misuse or abuse can void the warranty. This includes exceeding the weight limit, subjecting it to conditions beyond its specifications, or attempting to modify it in a non-approved manner.
– Failing to install the gas strut properly can void the warranty. This can include using incorrect mounting hardware, ignoring weight or pressure limits, or improper alignment.
– Attempting to repair or modify the gas strut can void the warranty. This includes opening the strut, tampering with its internal components, or using non-approved replacement parts.
– Using non-approved accessories could void the warranty.
– Using a gas strut in environmental conditions that are not within its specified range can also void the warranty.
How do you measure a gas strut?
Please click here for a full guide on measuring your compression gas strut.
How do you fit a gas strut?
When installing the gas strut in your application, it’s important to consider the initial position of the gas strut. The gas strut should rest with the rod side facing downward to facilitate lubrication of the seal and ensure optimal movement – therefore increasing lifespan. The opening state can be oriented at any angle, as long as the strut faces down when in its closing state.