Over the years, LDA became a reference on the Belgian-Luxembourg market for the supply of industrial gas springs. In our warehouse we have an extensive range of tensile and compressed gas springs in stock, this includes all sizes in both steel and stainless steel. The stroke length ranges from 20mm to over 1 meter, with bar diameters ranging from 4mm to 30mm. Depending on the model, we offer forces from as little as 10N to 10,000N.
LDA provides professional technical advice and helps you determine the perfect position of your gas spring. Our extensive experience ensures the correct calculation of a gas spring for your application.
Many special versions are available on request, such as height-adjustable gas springs, shock absorbers and nitrogen springs for heavy applications. All possible accessories are also present.
What is a gas spring?
A gas spring is a closed spring system consisting of a cylinder and a piston rod filled with nitrogen and often also oil. When the piston is pressed in, the gas volume decreases and the pressure increases. This creates a springy, damping force. This force is adjustable and age-resistant, making gas springs reliable and low-maintenance.
How does a gas spring work?
A gas spring works on the basis of compressed nitrogen gas contained in the cylinder. When the piston rod is pressed inwards, the gas volume decreases and the pressure increases. This higher pressure pushes the piston rod back outwards: this is the spring force of the gas spring. There is a small hole in the piston through which the gas can flow from one side of the piston to the other. Because this happens in a controlled manner, the movement is smooth and fluid rather than jerky.
The force provided by a gas spring changes depending on how far it is compressed. The further the piston rod is pushed in, the smaller the gas volume becomes and the higher the pressure rises. We call this effect progression: the gas spring feels lighter at the beginning of the stroke and more powerful as it is pushed further in.
Determining the right gas spring
You can easily determine which gas spring is right for you! Read the LDA brochure or contact our experts for more information.
The different types:
Lift gas springs: This is our most popular gas spring. This type is used as a weightweight counterbalance and as a speed controller. They meet the highest global standards for lifting, counterbalancing, lowering, tilting and damping covers and hoods.
Pull gas springs: The working principle of the GT-Lift is the opposite of the Lift gas spring. While the Lift gas spring is always ready to extend, the function of the GT-Lift is to compress itself.
Stainless steel gas springs: For high corrosion resistance, a wide range of stainless steel gas springs is available. These gas springs are designed for external applications such as the marine industry and for applications where a high level of cleanliness and hygiene is required, such as in the food industry.
Stop-lift gas springs: These springs have a special internal structure that allows variable positioning on the application. In applications where the Stop lift is used, you can stop the gas spring in any desired position. The gas spring will not move until an additional force is applied.
Step-Stop Gas Springs: With a multi-stroke section, the operating stroke is divided into multiple separate sections for desired valve or cover positions. Internal grooves in the tube allow the Step-Stop gas spring to be stopped at different, predefined angles.
Lift & Lock gas springs: These are regular Lift springs with an extra end position lock. Depending on the type, you can choose a lock in the extended, pressed or both positions.
Heavy duty: For forces from 7.4 kN to 50 kN.
Calculating gas springs
When calculating a gas spring, you must take the following into account:
- Weight and dimensions of the object to be moved (hatch, flap, etc.)
- Center of gravity position
- Stroke length and opening angle
- Number of gas springs and mounting points
- A useful guideline: the heavier the object or the greater the stroke, the larger the spring diameter required
Need more information about calculations? Calculate your gas spring today! You can always count on the experts at LDA!
Attaching and installing gas springs
It is important to attach the gas spring correctly to ensure that a hatch or flap can move smoothly and safely. Always choose sturdy attachment points at the correct distance from the hinge so that the gas spring provides the correct lifting and closing force. An incorrect position can result in the mechanism being too heavy or too light.
When mounting the gas spring, you usually start with the rod side and then attach the cylinder part. It is best to mount the gas spring with the rod pointing downwards so that the seal remains moist and lasts longer. Use the correct ball joints or mounting brackets and tighten them carefully.
After installation, it is advisable to gently slide the gas spring in and out a few times. This removes air from the system and distributes the oil evenly. Finally, check that the gas spring hatch opens smoothly, remains firmly in the open position, and closes securely.
With the correct fastening and installation, a gas spring hatch will remain reliable and maintenance-free for many years.
Gas springs in Belgium
For applications in Belgium, you can count on local expertise and support. LDA Belgium, based in Eppegem, not only offers an extensive gas spring calculation catalog, but also customized advice for the selection, calculation, and installation of gas springs in various industrial contexts.
