Tension Gas Spring

Pull Gas Spring / Reverse Action Gas Spring - Professional Industrial Solutions

Tension Gas Spring

1. Product Definition

Key Characteristics

Product Name: Tension Gas Spring / Pull Gas Spring / Reverse Action Gas Spring

Free State: The piston rod is in the "retracted" position

Working Characteristic: Extends when pulled, automatically retracts when released

Main Function

To enable covers/hatches that "need to be pulled down and retracted" to close automatically, while providing a controlled retraction speed. Typical applications include:

  • Automatic retraction of hoods and hatches
  • Assistance for medical equipment lifting
  • Automatic barrier retraction
  • Industrial equipment cover control

2. Structural Classification and Performance Differences

TypeSingle TubeDouble Tube
Rebound SpeedFastSlower, more stable
Force Progression RateHigh (100 N → 170-180 N)Low (100 N → ~150 N)
Closed Length AdvantageShorter (L ≥ 2S + 45)Longer (L ≥ 2S + 70)
ApplicabilityTight spaces, acceptable force progressionStable force, high safety guidance requirements

Single Tube Structure

  • Simple design, lower cost
  • Shorter closed length
  • Fast rebound speed
  • Noticeable force progression
  • Preferred for tight space applications

Double Tube Structure

  • Stable force curve
  • Controllable rebound speed
  • Good safety guidance
  • Approx. 30% higher cost
  • Preferred for high safety requirement applications

3. Core Parameter Range

Force Range

100 – 1,500 N

Common Stock: 150 / 250 / 350 N

Stroke Range

100 – 300 mm

Available in 25 mm increments

Closed Length

200 – 450 mm

Limited by formula

Minimum Order Qty

200 units

Typical Annual Volume: 500 – 5,000 units

End Fitting Configuration

Threaded Ends: Single/Double end M8 or M10 threads

Ball Joint Ends: Ø10 mm ball joint

Safety Accessories: Must be equipped with "anti-detachment pin" or safety wire

4. Working Principle - Two Modes of Operation

Mode A: Traction Gas Spring (With Pull Force)

Operation Flow

  • Opening Phase: Cover's gravity overcomes initial pull force, pulling the rod out → Cover descends
  • Closing Phase: Gas spring automatically retracts, assisting the cover to pull back up

Applicable Scenarios: Where the cover's natural descent is sufficient to pull the spring

Mode B: Pure Damper (Damping Only, No Pull Force)

Operation Flow

  • Opening Phase: Manual push throughout, no assistance
  • Closing Phase: Provides one-way damping only, allowing the cover to descend slowly

Applicable Scenarios: Light covers or safety-critical scenarios requiring "no assistance + slow descent"

Working Principle Illustration

Basic Principle: High-pressure nitrogen gas within the sealed cylinder generates a reverse thrust when the piston rod is pulled. When the external force is released, the gas pressure pushes the piston rod to retract, achieving the automatic closing function.

Key Advantage: Compared to traditional springs, gas springs offer a more stable force curve and longer service life (typically over 100,000 cycles).

5. Quick Selection Formula

Closed Length Calculation

Single Tube: L ≥ 2S + 45

Double Tube: L ≥ 2S + 70

Where: L = Closed Length (mm) | S = Working Stroke (mm)

Selection Steps

  1. Determine Working Stroke S: Based on the required opening range of the cover/hatch
  2. Select Structure Type: Choose Single or Double Tube based on space and force stability requirements
  3. Calculate Closed Length: Use the formula above to determine the minimum closed length
  4. Determine Force: Select appropriate force based on cover weight and pull resistance
  5. Confirm End Fitting: Choose threaded or ball joint, and configure anti-detachment pin

💡 Selection Tip: If unsure about specific parameters, we recommend starting with common stock items (150 N / 200 mm Stroke / Single Tube) for quick sample verification.

6. High-Frequency Customer FAQ

① Can the initial pull force be reduced below 80 N?
Answer: It can be reduced to 60 N, but this requires lowering the nitrogen pressure, which will reduce the service life by 20%. We recommend starting at 100 N. This is because excessively low initial pressure increases the gas expansion coefficient, affecting long-term stability.
② The force progression in the single tube is too high, can it be improved?
Answer: Switch to a Double Tube structure for a flatter force curve, at an approx. 30% increase in cost. The double tube design reduces the force progression rate from 100 N → 170-180 N to 100 N → ~150 N by diverting damping.
③ What is the fastest lead time?
Answer: Conventional 150/250 N, 150/200 mm stroke single tube blanks are stocked (500 units), shipping within 72 hours; non-standard items take 10 days. We maintain inventory on common specifications to ensure rapid response.
④ Certifications and Export?
Answer: Default certifications include RoHS and 48h Salt Spray Test; military-grade products require additional MIL-STD-810G vibration testing, adding 7 days to the cycle. All products comply with the EU RoHS directive and can be exported directly to European and American markets.
⑤ I want to conceal the anti-detachment pin on the end fitting?
Answer: We offer an "internal thread + safety wire" solution, which maintains the external appearance of a standard ball joint. This ensures both safety and an improved product aesthetic.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Tension Gas Spring?

Our technical team is ready to assist with selection, customization, and rapid delivery.

Contact us today for a detailed quotation or technical consultation.