A Guide to Understanding the Concept of Gas Spring Force Curves

When designing the mechanical systems that are present in aircraft and other aerospace applications, there is often a grand importance placed on ensuring that the movement of parts is carried out smoothly with ample precision. To satisfy this need, many assemblies take advantage of gas springs to exert controlled force.

While straightforward in operation, there are some important characteristics of gas springs that vary between types, necessitating careful consideration to find the most fitting options. In this blog, we will discuss the concept of gas spring force curves specifically, providing information on how it affects performance in various applications.

Before discussing the gas spring force curve, one must first be familiar with how these mechanical devices are specifically designed. While numerous types are available, most gas springs feature a piston and a piston rod that are enclosed in a cylinder filled with a compressed gas like nitrogen. The gas is compressed as the piston moves, creating a force that pushes the rod outward for force to be exerted. This force can be finely controlled to maintain consistency across the stroke of the spring, which makes these devices particularly valuable for minimizing friction and enabling smooth and reliable operation.

Put simply, the gas spring force curve property of a device serves to describe the level at which exerted force changes as the spring is compressed or extended. Generally, the force curve is linear, meaning that it increases or decreases at a constant rate as compression or extension occurs. This linearity is due to the mechanical device principle of gas springs, where pressure inside their cylinder remains proportional to its volume of gas, assuming temperatures remain constant. While this is the most common type of force curve, non-linear curves may also be present in specific applications to meet certain needs.

Understanding the concept of a gas spring force curve is essential when selecting between options for a particular assembly, as this property significantly impacts performance and safety. Generally, these devices are used in a variety of systems, including landing gear, cargo doors, and seating mechanisms. The force curve of a spring must be carefully matched to the requirements of these systems to ensure that the spring provides all necessary force for actuation throughout its range of motion. If the force curve is too steep for an assembly, it could cause the device to exert too much force too quickly, leading to potential damage. Conversely, if the force curve is too shallow, the spring may not offer enough force to perform its functions effectively.

Customizing the force curve of a gas spring is a common practice to verify it meets all specific needs of an application. This can generally be achieved through processes like adjusting the gas pressure within a cylinder, changing the size of pistons or cylinders, or using different materials for seals and piston rods. For example, the force curve might be adjusted to provide a softer initial force that gradually increases throughout the range of movement, ensuring smooth and controlled motion even under varying loads. Changes such as these allow engineers to fine-tune spring performance to match the exact requirements of the system it is used in, bolstering safety and efficiency.

The concept of gas spring force curves moves beyond performance, as it also plays a part in overall aircraft maintenance requirements and component longevity. Over time, the gas pressure inside a spring will decrease, leading to gradual changes in the force curve. Regular inspection and maintenance are thus essential practices to keep these devices operating within their specified parameters within their specified parameters. This is especially important in critical settings like the aerospace industry, where even minor deviations from the desired force curve can have significant consequences in the long run.

For those in need of high-quality gas springs or other various devices and mechanical solutions for aviation operations, ASAP Aviation Procurement is your one-stop shop with a plethora of in-demand offerings that are available for purchase today. When you choose us for fulfillment, you can expect to receive highly competitive pricing and timely delivery guarantees on quality-assured parts. Moreover, our staff is always just a call or email away from supplying tailored procurement options on desired items or consultation on solutions we provide to address unique requirements. With all that we do to uphold a streamlined procurement process and customer satisfaction, take the first step of purchasing on ASAP Aviation Procurement today.