Locking gas struts are specialized motion-control components that let you position a load (like a hospital bed, adjustable desk, or cabinet lid) and “lock” it securely at any point along its range of motion. Unlike standard gas springs, they combine a pressurized gas cylinder with a locking mechanism to trap the gas, preventing movement when engaged—while still allowing easy repositioning when unlocked. This guide breaks down their mechanics, applications, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

How Locking Gas Struts Work

At their core, locking gas struts rely on a valve-based mechanism to control gas flow within the cylinder:

• When unlocked, gas moves freely, allowing the strut to extend or compress smoothly.
• When locked, the valve closes, trapping gas and holding the strut (and your load) in place.

This mechanism is what sets them apart from standard gas springs, which only stay fully extended or compressed.

Core Concepts: Locking Gas Strut Mechanics

1. Locking Modes

• Rigid Locking: The load stays completely still when locked—ideal for applications like desktop supports or heavy industrial lids where stability is critical.
• Elastic (Soft) Locking: Offers a small amount of “give” to absorb impacts—perfect for medical beds, seating, or any application where user comfort is key.

2. Stroke & Force

• Stroke: The distance the piston travels (e.g., 100mm for a small armrest, 500mm for a tall lid).
• Force: The lifting/holding power (in Newtons). A 500N strut can support ~50kg (with proper leverage).

3. Applications

Locking gas struts excel in environments where precise, repeatable positioning is essential:

• Healthcare: Hospital bed backrests, patient chair adjustments.
• Office Furniture: Height-adjustable desks, monitor arms.
• Transportation: Aircraft seats, RV compartment lids.
• Industry: Equipment enclosures, heavy toolbox lids.

Why Choose Locking Gas Struts?

• Precision Control: Lock at any point along the stroke for consistent, repeatable positioning (e.g., a desk that stays at 42” when typing).
• Safety: Prevent unexpected movement—critical for applications near people (e.g., medical beds won’t collapse unexpectedly).
• Versatility: Choose rigid or elastic locking to match your needs (rock-solid stability or cushioned comfort).

How to Select the Right Locking Gas Strut

1. Load & Balance

Calculate the load’s weight and center of gravity. Underestimating force leads to sagging; overestimating makes adjustment difficult. Use the formula:

Required Force = Load Weight*D/L

• ( D ): Distance from hinge to load’s center of gravity.
• ( L ): Distance from hinge to strut’s attachment point.

2. Stroke Length

Match the stroke to your load’s required travel. For example:

• A 100mm stroke works for a small armrest adjustment.
• A 300mm stroke is better for a hospital bed backrest.

3. Locking Behavior

• Choose rigid locking for stability (e.g., industrial equipment lids).
• Choose elastic locking for comfort (e.g., patient chairs, yacht seating).

4. Mounting & Environment

• Mounting: Ensure end fittings (ball joints, studs, forks) match your design.
• Environment: Use stainless steel for corrosive settings (e.g., marine or medical), and check temperature ratings (-40°C to 80°C is standard).

Common Use Cases

1. Adjustable Desks

Lock at sitting (70cm) or standing (110cm) height—rigid locking keeps the desk stable while typing.

2. Hospital Beds

Elastic locking on backrests lets patients adjust to 30°, 45°, or 60° comfortably, without sudden jolts.

3. Industrial Toolboxes

Rigid locking holds heavy lids open at 90° for easy tool access, then unlocks to close smoothly.

Practical Tips for Success

• Consult Manufacturer Guidelines: Review specs like locking range and force ratings to avoid mismatches.
• Test Thoroughly: After installation, cycle the strut 20–30 times to ensure consistent locking and release.
• Consider Maintenance: Inspect seals yearly for leaks—most struts last 50,000+ cycles with proper care.

Locking gas struts bring precision, safety, and versatility to countless applications. By focusing on load, stroke, locking mode, and environment, you’ll find a solution that fits your needs perfectly. For personalized recommendations, share your application’s load weight, desired positions, and environment—we’ll help you pick the ideal model.

Fig. 2: Locking gas struts in action—from desks to hospital beds, they enable precise control.