Changzhou LongXiang Gas Spring Co.,Ltd

Choosing the correct stroke length is one of the most important steps in gas spring selection. A unit with enough force can still fail if its travel is too short, while excessive travel may overload hinges, brackets, or seals. LONGXIANG GAS SPRING recommends defining the motion geometry before selecting a standard size.

Start With the Required Lid Movement

Measure the application in both fully closed and fully open positions. Record the distance between the intended mounting points at each position. The difference between these two center-to-center measurements gives an initial estimate of the working stroke. Do not use lid travel alone: the gas spring moves along an angled line, so its stroke is normally different from the edge movement of the cover.

Also confirm the available installation length. The extended length must fit when the lid is open, and the compressed length must fit before the lid reaches its mechanical stop. End fittings and brackets are part of these dimensions and should not be ignored.

Allow Margin at Both Ends

A gas spring should not act as the primary hard stop. If it is forced to full extension or full compression on every cycle, impact loads can damage the piston, rod guide, seals, or mounting points. A practical design keeps a small reserve of travel at both ends and uses the machine structure, hinge stop, or a dedicated limiter to control the final position.

The required reserve depends on geometry, tolerances, and load. During prototype testing, LONGXIANG GAS SPRING engineers check that the rod does not bottom out at the closed position and that the unit is not pulled against its internal stop at the open position.

Check Stroke Together With Force and Mounting Position

Stroke length cannot be selected separately from force. Moving a mounting point changes the lever arm, opening angle, required Newton force, and gas spring travel at the same time. A longer stroke does not automatically create a wider opening angle, and a higher force cannot compensate for incorrect geometry.

Use the lid weight, center of gravity, hinge location, desired opening angle, and number of gas springs in the calculation. Then model or measure the mounting-point path through the full movement. For available configurations, review our gas spring products.

Prototype and Verify the Full Cycle

Before production, install a prototype with adjustable or temporary brackets. Move the lid slowly through the complete cycle and check clearance around the cylinder, rod, fittings, wiring, and nearby panels. Confirm that the joints can articulate freely without side loading.

Test the application at the expected operating temperature and with realistic component tolerances. Repeated cycling may reveal interference that is not visible in a single static position. LONGXIANG GAS SPRING can review drawings and installation dimensions before a final specification is released.

Common Warning Signs

• The gas spring reaches full compression before the lid closes.

• The rod is pulled tight before the lid reaches the intended open angle.

• Brackets flex or fittings bind during movement.

• The lid changes direction suddenly near the end of travel.

• The selected extended or compressed length excludes the end fittings.

FAQ

Can I use the gas spring as an end stop?

No. A separate mechanical stop is preferred because repeated impact at the internal limits can shorten service life.

Is stroke equal to the change in mounting-point distance?

It is a useful starting value, but design margin, fitting dimensions, tolerances, and the real motion path must also be considered.

What information is needed for selection?

Provide lid weight and dimensions, hinge position, opening angle, closed and open mounting distances, available space, temperature, and cycle expectations. Send these details through our contact page.

Correct stroke selection protects the gas spring and the surrounding structure. With accurate measurements and prototype verification, LONGXIANG GAS SPRING can help create a reliable lifting system without overtravel or binding.