What Are Locking Gas Struts?
A locking gas strut is a gas spring with a built-in “brake.” Unlike regular gas springs (which only stay fully extended or compressed), these struts let you:
- Move an object (like a lid, seat, or bed) to your desired position
- Lock it firmly in place with a button, lever, or even a gentle release
- Unlock and reposition it anytime—no struggling, no heavy lifting
Inside JP’s locking gas struts, high-pressure nitrogen gas provides the lifting force, while a tiny valve controls the flow. When unlocked, gas moves freely, letting the strut extend or compress. When locked, the valve closes, trapping the gas—and keeping the strut (and your object) exactly where you want it.
Fig. 1: JP’s locking gas strut uses a valve (red) to trap gas, locking it in position—simple, but powerful!
JP’s Locking Gas Struts: Two Types for Every Need
Not all locking gas struts feel the same when locked. JP offers two types to match different needs—think of them as “stiff” vs. “soft” locks:
1. Rigid Locking Gas Struts (KQ10 Series)
- How they feel when locked: Rock-solid—no movement at all. Like a steel rod holding things in place.
- Best for: Projects where stability is non-negotiable. You wouldn’t want your standing desk to sag when you lean on it, right?
- JP examples (from our catalog):
2. Elastic Locking Gas Struts (KQ20 Series)
- How they feel when locked: A gentle “give”—like leaning on a firm pillow. They absorb small bumps, making them safer and more comfortable.
- Best for: Projects where people interact with them (think hospital beds or yacht seats). No jarring stops!
- JP examples (from our catalog):
- KQ2017: Compact (100mm stroke) for wheelchair armrests.
- KQ2027: Versatile (200mm stroke) for medical bed backrests and lounge chairs.
Fig. 2: Rigid (left) stays stiff; Elastic (right) has a soft give—both keep your project secure.
Where Locking Gas Struts Shine (Real-World Uses)
Locking gas struts solve everyday problems in ways regular springs or manual hinges can’t. Here are their most common (and coolest!) applications—all using JP’s KQ Series:
1. Medical & Healthcare: Safety + Comfort
In hospitals, every adjustment matters. Locking gas struts let caregivers set positions quickly, while patients stay comfortable:
- Hospital bed backrests: KQ2027 (elastic lock) adjusts to 30°, 45°, or 60° for eating, reading, or sleeping. The soft give prevents jolts if the patient shifts.
- Wheelchair armrests: KQ2017 (small, elastic) locks at the perfect height for transferring patients—no pinching or sudden drops.
- Exam table stirrups: Rigid KQ1017 keeps stirrups stable during procedures, then unlocks for easy patient exit.
Why JP? Our 316L stainless steel options resist corrosion from cleaning chemicals—critical for hospitals!
2. Office & Furniture: Easy Adjustments
Desks, chairs, and storage that adapt to you—no tools, no muscle:
- Height-adjustable desks: KQ1017 (rigid lock) lets you switch from sitting (70cm) to standing (110cm) in seconds. Stays rock-solid while you type.
- Fold-down murphy beds: KQ1027 (medium stroke) lifts the heavy bed frame, locks it against the wall when not in use—no more straining to lift.
- Cabinet lids (e.g., in kitchens or offices): KQ1017 holds lids open for easy access, then closes smoothly when unlocked.
Why JP? Our struts handle 50,000+ adjustments—so your furniture lasts for years.
3. Automotive & Transportation: Heavy Lifting Made Easy
Trucks, RVs, and boats need strong, reliable struts to handle rough conditions:
- Truck toolbox lids: KQ1027 (rigid) lifts heavy steel lids, locks them open while you grab tools—no need to prop them with a stick.
- RV compartment doors: Elastic KQ2027 handles bumpy roads without slamming shut. Unlocks with a light touch when you need supplies.
- Boat hatches: JP’s stainless steel KQ2027 resists saltwater corrosion, locking hatches open for ventilation or storage access.
Why JP? Our struts are tested to withstand vibration, temperature swings (-40°C to 80°C), and humidity—tough enough for any journey.
4. Industrial & Marine: Durability Under Pressure
Heavy machinery and marine equipment need struts that work hard, day in and day out:
- Machine access panels: KQ1035 (long stroke, rigid) holds large metal panels open during maintenance—keeps workers safe, no need for a helper to hold the panel.
- Yacht seats & sunbeds: Elastic KQ2035 adjusts to recline positions, stays locked even in rough water, and feels comfortable for long days on deck.
- Warehouse storage lids: KQ1027 lifts heavy lids on storage bins, locks them open for loading/unloading—saves time and reduces strain.
Why JP? Our struts are built with 45# steel piston rods (chrome-plated for wear) and 20# steel cylinders—tough enough for industrial use.
Fig. 3: JP’s locking gas struts at work—from hospitals to boats, they make life easier.
How to Pick the Right Locking Gas Strut (3 Simple Steps)
Choosing the perfect locking gas strut from JP’s catalog takes 5 minutes. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Pick Rigid or Elastic
- Rigid (KQ10): For no movement after locking (desks, toolboxes).
- Elastic (KQ20): For gentle give (medical beds, seats).
Step 2: Measure 3 Things
- Stroke: How far does your object need to move? A desk that adjusts 100mm needs a 100mm stroke (like KQ1017).
- Space: How long can the strut be when fully extended? A small cabinet might need a strut under 300mm (check A(Min) in our catalog).
- Weight: How heavy is the object? A 50kg lid needs a strut with at least 400N force (1kg = ~10N—add 20% for safety).
Step 3: Match to JP’s Models
Example: A 20kg hospital bed backrest that moves 200mm.
- Needs: Elastic lock, 200mm stroke, 240N force.
- Perfect fit: KQ2027 (check our catalog—this model checks all boxes!).
Why JP’s Locking Gas Struts Stand Out
Not all locking gas struts are built the same. JP’s are designed for your success:
- Customizable: Choose force (50–2000N), stroke (30–500mm), and materials (steel or 316L stainless).
- Easy to install: Fits JP’s QT brackets (M6/M8/M10 threads) or standard hardware—no special tools needed.
- Global support: Teams in 6 countries (U.S., Brazil, India, etc.) help with questions, installation, or replacements.
Need help? Email us:
- Global: info@jpgasspring.com
- U.S.: valeria.gomez.olivar@gmail.com
- Brazil: lisa.lin@jpgasspring.com
Get JP’s Free Locking Gas Strut Guide
Download our full catalog here: www.jpgasspring.com/locking-gas-struts. It includes:
- All KQ10/KQ20 models with specs
- Installation tips
- A force calculator (no math required!)
Whether you’re building medical equipment, office furniture, or marine gear, JP’s locking gas struts make adjustment easy, safe, and reliable. Visit www.jpgasspring.com to find your perfect strut today!
