Gas Struts & Gas Springs FAQ Guide

Gas Struts and Gas Springs Frequently Asked Questions

Gas struts, also known as gas springs, are widely used to assist lifting, supporting, and controlled movement in everyday applications. From kitchen cupboards and campervan beds to industrial enclosures and access panels, they provide smooth and reliable motion while reducing lifting effort.

This guide answers the most common questions customers ask when choosing replacement or new gas struts, helping you to select the correct solution.

What is a Gas Strut / Gas Spring?

A Gas Strut, also known as a Gas Spring is a sealed mechanical component filled with compressed gas that assists movement by providing controlled force.

It helps lift, hold open, or dampen the closing motion of lids, doors, panels, or covers.

Gas struts are commonly used for:

Kitchen and furniture cabinets
Campervans and motorhomes
Toolboxes and storage chests
Machinery guards and access panels
Automotive boots and compartments
Marine lockers and hatches

They improve safety, usability and user comfort by preventing sudden dropping or excessive lifting force.

Gas Strut vs Gas Spring. Is There a Difference?

The terms gas strut and gas spring describe the same product.

Gas spring is the technical engineering term, while the term gas strut is more commonly used in automotive, furniture and consumer applications. Both refer to a pressurised cylinder that generates lifting or supporting force.

How do Gas Struts work?

Inside the cylinder is compressed nitrogen gas and a piston rod. When compressed, internal pressure builds resistance. As the strut extends, stored energy assists lifting or supports weight.

This creates:

Smooth opening movement
Controlled closing speed
Reduced manual lifting effort
Stable open positioning

Some designs also include oil damping to slow movement near the end of travel.

How long do Gas Struts last?

Service life depends on usage and environment.

Typical lifespan ranges from 10,000 to 50,000 cycles, although outdoor, marine, or high-load applications may reduce longevity.

Choosing the correct force rating and mounting position helps maximise lifespan.

Why do Gas Struts lose pressure over time?

Gas can slowly permeate through internal seals which reduces force. Heat, vibration or incorrect mounting can also speed up pressure loss.

How do I choose the correct Gas Strut / Gas Spring?

Selecting the right gas strut depends on several key measurements and performance factors:

1. Extended Length

Measure the strut from centre of fixing point to centre of fixing point when fully open.

2. Stroke Length

The distance the rod travels between closed and open positions.

3. Force Rating (Newton Value)

Gas strut force is measured in Newtons (N).
Higher Newton ratings provide greater lifting assistance.

Typical examples:

60N to 150N for lightweight furniture
200N to 400N for storage lids
500N+ for heavy industrial or vehicle applications

4. End Fittings

Common fittings include ball joints, eyelets and brackets. Matching existing fittings simplifies replacement.

If replacing an existing unit, the safest approach is to match the length and Newton rating printed on the original strut.

Read our article on What Type of Gas Strut do I Need?

How do I calculate the correct force?

Force is based on the weight of the lid or panel and the position of the hinges and mounting points.

To calculate force you will need to know the weight of your lid and how the strut will be mounted.

The first table shows the typical lid weight with the matching gas strut force.

The second table shows the available force ranges based on pressure and rod buckling capability.

Choose the closest force in 10 Newton steps to ensure safe and reliable operation.

Gas_Spring_table(1)

Newtons_Table(1)

Full details: What size gas strut do I need?

How do I measure a Gas Strut?

Measure the extended length, compressed length and stroke. Also check the end fittings and mounting centres.

gas-strut-technical-drawing-explained

Guide here: What size gas strut do I need?

Can I Replace a Gas Strut Myself?

In most cases, yes.

Gas struts are designed for straightforward installation using standard mounting brackets.

General fitting guidance:

Support the lid or door before removal
Replace one strut at a time where possible
Install with the piston rod facing downward when closed
Ensure fixing points align correctly without forcing the strut

For heavy applications or paired struts, assistance may be required during installation.

Why Has My Gas Strut Failed?

Gas struts naturally wear over time due to seal degradation and repeated use.

Common causes include:

Loss of internal gas pressure
Corrosion or environmental exposure
Incorrect force rating
Side loading or misalignment
High usage cycles

If a lid no longer stays open or drops unexpectedly, replacement is usually required.

Can Gas Struts Be Repaired or Refilled?

Standard gas struts are sealed units and are not designed to be repaired or re-gassed.

Replacement is normally the safest and most cost-effective option.

Are Gas Struts Supplied in Pairs?

Many applications use two struts to balance the load evenly. However, struts are typically sold individually.

When replacing, it is recommended to change both units at the same time to maintain consistent performance.

Where Are Gas Struts Commonly Used?

Gas struts are used across both domestic and industrial environments, including:

Campervan and vehicle conversions
Home furniture and storage solutions
Commercial equipment enclosures
Marine access hatches
Electrical cabinets
Workshop storage systems

Their versatility makes them suitable for both DIY upgrades and engineered designs.

Are stainless steel gas struts better for outdoor use?

Yes. 316L stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and ideal for marine, food, outdoor and washdown environments.

Can gas struts be used in marine applications?

Yes if they are manufactured from 316L stainless steel with corrosion-resistant components.

Are gas struts suitable for medical or hygienic environments?

Stainless steel Gas Struts are the best choice as they are resistant to cleaning chemicals and moisture.

What is an adjustable force gas strut?

An adjustable force Gas Strut is supplied fully charged and can have the force reduced during installation using a built-in valve.

Ideal for prototyping and reducing SKUs.

What is a fixed force gas strut?

A fixed force Gas Strut is preset at a specific pressure and cannot be adjusted.

What is a locking gas strut?

A locking Gas Strut includes a valve that allows the strut to hold its position under load.

Which way should a gas strut be mounted?

Gas Struts work best when the rod is pointing down in the closed position. This keeps the internal oil on the seals, which improves service life.

Can gas struts be mounted horizontally?

Some can, but performance may vary. Rod-down mounting is recommended wherever possible.

Can you replace gas struts like for like?

Yes, if you match force, length, stroke and end fittings.

Can you cross-reference Camloc or Stabilus part numbers?

Yes. JET PRESS can cross-reference most part numbers. Contact our team with your existing Gas Strut details.

Can gas struts be refilled or repaired?

Standard Gas Struts cannot be refilled and should be replaced when pressure is lost.

Are gas struts safe?

Gas Struts are safe when used correctly. They store high pressure and should never be opened, drilled or heated.

Do you supply adjustable gas struts?

Yes. Our Variforce range allows force to be reduced during installation.

We have a stocked range available for immediate dispatch.

Do you supply stainless steel gas struts?

Yes, we have a stocked range available for immediate dispatch.

Do you offer samples?

Yes. Samples can be provided for prototyping and test fitting.

Do you provide CAD files?

Yes. CAD files are available on request to support design work.