In the world of lifting roofs for the transport sector, every millimetre and every Newton counts. For a leading client in this industry, Brimotech developed a unique lockable gas spring with extremely low force and high load capacity. The challenge: to combine a long stroke of over 500mm with a compact design and a reliable auto-release function.
Customer problem statement
The client had long been using a proven system equipped with lockable gas springs featuring a Ø22/Ø10mm diameter and a stroke of over half a metre. These springs included an auto-release function that allowed movement in one direction without manual unlocking.
The new requirement was for a similar lockable gas spring, but suited for much lighter applications. This required not only significantly lower force, but also low progression and consistent blocking up to 10kN — all within the same compact design.
Brimotech’s approach
Brimotech’s engineering team explored various options and introduced a smart modification to the piston design. The solution: an internal valve that always remains closed, regardless of gas pressure. Even in the event of complete gas loss due to leakage, the gas spring remains securely locked. This greatly improves both functional reliability and operational safety.
Result: a custom lockable gas spring
The modified gas spring was tested with a 510mm stroke and a 12kN load. The F1 force was reduced to about one third of its original value — essential for lightweight, easy operation. The F2 value (force in fully compressed state) was also reduced, optimising system performance for lighter loads.
Conclusion
With this tailored solution, Brimotech once again demonstrates the value of technically refined customisation. The lockable gas spring combines low force, long stroke and absolute safety — precisely what our client needed to extend their product range into lighter applications. Thanks to our expertise in gas springs, short lead times and reliable service, clients can count on us for functional and durable solutions tailored to their exact requirements.
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