Gas Spring FAQ: Force, Materials, Lifetime and Installation

A gas spring uses compressed nitrogen to help lift, lower, support or balance a moving object. Its main components include a pressure cylinder, piston, piston rod, seals and a small amount of oil for lubrication and damping.

Gemini gas springs are charged with nitrogen, a colourless and odourless gas that makes up most of Earth's atmosphere.

Gemini gas springs are available in carbon steel with a QPQ-treated rod and epoxy-coated cylinder, or in stainless steel for applications that require greater corrosion resistance.

Gemini gas springs are supplied ready for installation and do not require routine servicing. Keep the piston rod clean and undamaged. In dusty or abrasive environments, ask whether a dust cap or rod protector is appropriate for the application.

No. Gemini has confirmed that its gas springs do not require special handling or transport documentation, whether shipped by air or by sea. If your carrier asks for a product declaration, contact Gemini for the relevant product information.

Gemini's General Spring Specification defines 5,000 cycles in worst conditions and 70,000 cycles at 20°C +/- 2°C and 60% humidity, depending on the application, stroke length and force. These are test conditions, not a guaranteed service life. Ask for application-specific guidance.

• Gas compression springs, also called gas struts.
• Gas traction springs, also called tension springs.
• Lockable gas springs, also called blockable gas springs.
• Oil dampers.
• Stainless steel gas springs.

Many Gemini connecting parts can be changed to suit different mounting arrangements. Secure threaded end fittings using the method specified for the application and follow the thread-locking product manufacturer's instructions. Contact Gemini if you are unsure which fitting or retention method to use.

Mount the gas spring in line and allow its connecting parts to pivot freely during operation. Ball joints or rod end bearings can accommodate limited angular movement. Avoid twisting and side loads, which can damage the seals or bend the piston rod. Ask Gemini to review the mounting geometry when misalignment is expected.

Standard Gemini gas springs are specified for -30°C to +80°C (-22°F to +176°F). Options for temperatures as low as -50°C (-58°F) or as high as +200°C (+392°F) may be available. Confirm the required range when requesting a quote.

Mounting orientation depends on the spring design and the damping required. For many compression-spring applications, rod-down mounting helps keep the seals lubricated and provides end-of-stroke damping. Confirm the orientation for your specific spring and application.

Send Gemini the extended length, stroke, rod and cylinder diameters, end fittings, application details and photographs. A spring with a bleed-off valve may be suitable when the required force is uncertain because its force can be reduced during installation. Follow the supplied adjustment instructions and contact Gemini before releasing additional pressure.

Gemini designs and manufactures its gas springs at its facility in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada.