Q: When should you stop looking for an off-the-shelf model?
A: Move to custom development when the project requires non-standard force or stroke, unusual mounting space, special fittings, corrosion or high-temperature resistance, locking, or controlled damping.
Q: What information should be included in an RFQ?
A: Provide load, force, stroke, retracted and extended length, installation space, movement angle, mounting points, end fittings, materials, temperature, chemical exposure, target life, and drawings. PDF drawings or STEP/IGES models can reduce alignment errors.
Q: How can a custom solution be evaluated?
A: Request a force-stroke curve, force and length tolerances, prototype test data, cycle-life results, speed requirements, and applicable certifications. Complex products should pass prototype, mechanism, and pre-production approval stages.
Conclusion: The success of a custom gas spring depends on documenting the application, environment, and performance target in measurable terms, then making tolerances and validation milestones part of the purchasing process.
