How To Measure Gas Struts

How to Measure Gas Struts: A Comprehensive Guide

Gas struts, also known as gas springs or gas dampers, are essential components in many applications, providing smooth and controlled movement. Accurately measuring your existing gas strut is crucial for replacement, ensuring proper functionality and safety. This guide provides a step-by-step process to accurately measure your gas strut, enabling you to find the perfect replacement.

Understanding Gas Strut Specifications

Before we begin measuring, understanding the key specifications is essential. These measurements dictate the gas strut's performance and compatibility with your application. The key specifications you need to note are:

• Extended Length: This is the total length of the strut when fully extended.
• Compressed Length: This is the total length of the strut when fully compressed.
• Stroke Length: This is the difference between the extended and compressed lengths. It represents the distance the strut travels.
• Body Diameter: This is the diameter of the strut's cylindrical body.
• Mounting Hole Centers: This refers to the distance between the mounting holes on each end of the strut. You'll need to measure both the center-to-center distance and the hole diameter.
• Mounting Hole Diameter: The diameter of the mounting holes.
• Force (Newtons): This indicates the force exerted by the gas strut at a specific point in its stroke (often at the fully extended position). This is crucial for proper functionality.

Measuring Your Gas Strut: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's walk through the measurement process:

1. Gather Your Tools

You will need a few simple tools for accurate measurement:

• Measuring Tape: A flexible tape measure is ideal for accurate length measurements.
• Caliper (Optional): A caliper provides more precise measurements for diameter and mounting hole distances, particularly for smaller gas struts.
• Pen and Paper: To record your measurements.

2. Safely Extend and Compress the Gas Strut

Caution: Gas struts contain pressurized gas. Handle with care to avoid injury. Slowly extend and compress the gas strut to its full range of motion. Never force it beyond its limits.

3. Measure the Extended Length

Extend the gas strut fully and measure the total length from end to end using your measuring tape. Record this measurement as the Extended Length.

4. Measure the Compressed Length

Fully compress the gas strut and measure the total length from end to end. Record this measurement as the Compressed Length.

5. Calculate the Stroke Length

Subtract the compressed length from the extended length. This result is the Stroke Length.

6. Measure the Body Diameter

Measure the diameter of the strut's cylindrical body using either your measuring tape or caliper. Record this measurement as the Body Diameter.

7. Measure Mounting Hole Centers and Diameters

Carefully measure the distance between the centers of the mounting holes on each end of the strut. Record this as the Mounting Hole Centers. Also measure the diameter of the mounting holes and record as Mounting Hole Diameter.

8. Determine the Force (If Possible)

The force rating might be printed on the gas strut itself, or you might find it in the manufacturer's documentation. If not, you'll need to rely on the previous measurements to find a similar replacement and ensure the appropriate force is chosen.

9. Record Your Measurements

Keep a detailed record of all your measurements in a clear and organized manner. This will be crucial when searching for a replacement gas strut.

Finding a Replacement Gas Strut

Once you have all your measurements, you can start searching for a suitable replacement. Use your measurements as a guide when browsing online or contacting a supplier. Remember to consider the force rating as it's crucial for proper operation.

Conclusion

By carefully following these steps, you can accurately measure your gas strut and confidently find the right replacement. Remember safety is paramount; handle gas struts with care and always seek professional assistance if you're unsure about any aspect of the process. Accurate measurements ensure the smooth and safe operation of your equipment.