Gas springs provide a number of benefits in automotive, marine, industrial and domestic springing applications, especially wherever controlled damping is required. Whether displaced in tension or compression, gas springs provide a nearly constant force through their entire stroke as compared to coil or leaf metallic or composite springs. They can also be constructed with special features such as variable damping and blocking. When applied properly, gas springs are reliable and long-lasting alternatives to coil and leaf springs in linear situations.

Gas Springs are Mechanical Systems
In their most basic form, gas springs are essential simple mechanical systems. The main components of a gas spring---rods, pistons, tubes and gas---interact with one another to absorb shocks and jolts. Gas springs are also closed systems, as the gas used to absorb impacts is completely contained within the shock system, and the system is sealed to prevent components from entering or leaving the spring system. Depending on the brand and make, the gas spring may be lubricated by additional oil; this oil improves the spring's seal and helps ensure the gas contained within the system is unable to escape.

Gas Springs Contain Nitrogen
To facilitate its function of absorbing impact, gas springs are filled with a neutral gas that can be easily compressed with minimal risk of explosive reaction. While the precise composition of gas springs may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, the primary component of most gas springs is nitrogen; chosen for its neutral nature, nitrogen inside a gas spring quickly returns to its natural state after being compressed. In addition, nitrogen does not react with lubricants used to keep the gas spring system sealed, and is unlikely to explode when exposed to oil under high pressures. Finally, nitrogen is both readily available and economical, making it ideal for use in gas springs.

Gas Springs Absorb Shocks
When gas springs are exposed to impact, a rod protruding from the system is forced into the inside of the spring system. As the rod enters the system, an attached piston compresses the nitrogen inside the pressure tube. Compressed under load, the neutral nitrogen simply expands back into its original size, pushing the piston outward and extending the attached rod back into its standard position.