Fitness Machine Air Cylinders?

[whotmewory]

I have a [non-fitness equipment related] industrial application where I think I can exploit using one of the manually released [to lower] / spring raised air cylinders that are seen in commercial grade fitness machines. these are the ones that are independent of any air source other than the ambient air in the gym.

I haven't any idea what "type" of air cylinder they are.

Can any of you help me find a manufacturer?

Chris in NC

 

[MadMango]

Search for mechanical struts.

http://www.asraymond.com/m-struts/default.asp

[green]"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."[/green]
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.
Have you read faq731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[whotmewory]

Son of a gun! Those certainly appear to be them!

How do YOU use these? Like'em?

 

[DesignerMike]

You might also look for a gas spring. There isn't a mechanical spring inside (they just uses the gas pressure to supply the force).

They are also available in "adjustable" models where you can set the lifting force. I don't know how the price compares, but that's another option.

 

[MadMango]

whotmeworry, I haven't used them, but have looked into mechanical struts for applications in cold/hot environments. They are used in the same applications as normal gas struts.

[green]"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."[/green]
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.
Have you read faq731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[alansimpson]

http://www.acecontrols.com

http://www.stabilus.com

http://www.enidine.com

 

[whotmewory]

Thank you all for your kind direction and help. These were certainly what I was looking for!