Often preferred over traditional mechanical springs, gas springs offer several benefits. Air springs are often more cost effective than metal coils as well as more compact and exceedingly durable. Unlike metal coils, the air cylinders and pistons used in these springs allow for easily adjustable and controlled movement. This adjustability also provides room for correction should gas leak out of the main chamber over time whereas worn coils will need to be replaced.
Like mechanical springs, however, there are several factors that must be carefully considered when selecting the proper gas spring for a given application. As aforementioned, the body material is largely important as it must endure not only the physical stresses, but also the chemical and environmental stresses of an application as well. Materials such as stainless steel, thermoplastic, aluminum and steel are often used and sometimes coated with black nitride or chrome plated for further protection. Additional physical considerations include cylinder diameter, maximum width, rod diameter and mounting style. Performance specifications to take into account include working temperatures, absorber stroke, compressed and extended lengths, maximum force and maximum cycles per minute. Gas spring and industry specific professionals can provide helpful insight when selecting the proper device for a given application in order to ensure safety and optimal performance.