Abstract: A gas spring unit having a housing, and a piston assembly slidably supported within and projecting outwardly of the housing. The housing and piston assembly cooperate to define therebetween a pressure chamber which is precharged with a high pressure gas, specifically nitrogen, for absorbing external shock forces as imposed on the piston assembly. A first passage, containing a one-way check valve, extends through the end cap of the housing to permit charging of the pressure chamber with high-pressure gas, and to additionally permit make up gas to be supplied to the chamber. A second passage permits relieving of pressure within the pressure chamber, such as due to overload or when relief of pressure is desired.

Abstract: A gas spring unit having a housing, and a piston assembly slidably supported within and projecting outwardly of the housing. The housing and piston assembly cooperate to define therebetween a pressure chamber which is precharged with a high pressure gas, specifically nitrogen, for absorbing external shock forces as imposed on the piston assembly. A first passage, containing a one-way check valve, extends through the end cap of the housing to premit charging of the pressure chamber with high-pressure gas, and to additionally permit make up gas to be supplied to the chamber. A second passage extends through the end cap for relieving pressure within the pressure chamber, such as due to overload or when relief of pressure is desired.

Abstract: A gas spring unit with an improved packing structure for providing a lubricated guide and seal with the piston rod for containing a high-pressure gas while enabling the spring unit to function for a large number of operational cycles. The packing structure includes a pair of lubricating-type bushings disposed for slidable engagement with the piston rod, which bushings are axially spaced and confine a seal ring therebetween, the latter preferably being of polyurethane. The bushings are preferably impregnated with a lubricant such as graphite. The innermost bushing abuts against a shoulder on the housing to avoid imposition of excessive compressive forces on the seal ring.

Abstract: A gas spring unit having a housing, and a piston assembly slidably supported within and projecting outwardly of the housing. The housing and piston assembly cooperate to define therebetween a pressure chamber which is precharged with a high pressure gas, specifically nitrogen, for absorbing external shock forces as imposed on the piston assembly. A first passage, containing a one-way check valve, extends through the end cap of the housing to permit charging of the pressure chamber with high-pressure gas, and to additionally permit make up gas to be supplied to the chamber. A second passage extends through the end cap for relieving pressure within the pressure chamber, such as due to overload or when relief of pressure is desired.