User advices when handling a gas spring

1.  Gas springs are pressure vessels. Never try to open one without following the instructions in the section entitled "Recycling". Never expose a gas spring to excessive heat or naked flames.

2.  To ensure the optimal function and lifespan, conventional gas springs should be fitted so that the piston rod always, or as frequently as possible, points downwards during use. If the piston rod is down at the end of the stroke, the hydraulic damping is used to the full.

3.   Gas springs must not, under any circumstances, be exposed to damaging external influences or violent handling. Lesjöfors accepts no warranty or return liability for the following:
a. Visible damage to the piston rod, including minor scratching, paint dust, bending or similar. This may damage seal function.
b. A damaged cylinder. This may mean that functionality has been jeopardised and may pose direct safety risks. Never try to use a gas spring that exhibits tiny dents or bends on its cylinder. Take it out of use and follow the instructions in the section entitled "Recycling".
c. Gas springs where either the warning text, manufacturing date or part number has been removed by external action.

4.   Our gas springs are designed for ambient temperatures of between -30 and +80°C. If possible, avoid intensive use at the extremes of this temperature range. Reducing/increasing ambient temperature also means a reduction/increase in gas spring force.

5.   Gas springs are designed to handle axial loads. Avoid radial forces (lateral forces). Choose as big a cross section as possible.

6.   We always recommend the use of external end stops in the application. Do not exert any external force during the stroke.

7.   Do not lubricate the piston rod with grease or oil, and do not expose the gas spring to oils or solvents.

8.   Avoid using non-stainless gas springs in corrosive environments.

9.   Do not expose the piston rod to dirt and dust.

10.  Long periods of storage may cause the sealing material to age. If storage is necessary, we recommend you adopt a "first in - first out" policy. If a gas spring has been unused for a long period of time, it may require a little more force to press the piston rod in when operated for the first time. This is normal and does not have a negative impact on future use.

If all these points are taken into account, you will have gone some way towards safe and well-functioning use of gas springs. However, Lesjöfors cannot be held liable for the performance or safety of the final application.