Lockable Gas Springs Explained

A lockable gas spring can be stopped and locked at any point of its stroke — unlike a standard gas strut, which always pushes to full extension. Rigid locking holds position under load in both directions; flexible locking allows slight movement and cushioning. Which one you need depends on whether the locked position must carry weight.

How a lockable gas spring works

Inside the cylinder, a valve in the piston separates the two gas chambers. When the release pin in the piston rod is pressed — by a lever, Bowden cable or hydraulic release — the valve opens and the spring moves like a normal gas strut. Release the pin and the valve closes, locking the piston in place. This gives infinite position adjustment across the whole stroke.

Rigid vs flexible locking

• Rigid locking (oil chamber at the lock side): the locked position is hydraulically solid and carries load without giving way. Use it where the spring must hold weight in position — height-adjustable tables, backrests, machine guards.
• Flexible locking (gas cushion at the lock side): the locked position has a slight spring effect and absorbs shocks. Use it where comfort matters more than absolute rigidity — recliners, headrests, hatches exposed to wind loads.

Release systems

The release pin is operated through one of three systems, all available in our lockable range:

• Operating lever: a hand lever mounted directly on the release head — the simplest solution for furniture within arm's reach.
• Bowden cable control: a flexible cable lets you place the release button anywhere — standard for beds and remote-mounted applications.
• Hydraulic release: a fluid line transmits the release action smoothly over longer distances — used in medical and premium furniture applications.

Typical applications

• Adjustable beds and slatted frames
• Height-adjustable desks and work platforms
• Medical couches, dental chairs and rehabilitation equipment
• Machine guards that must stay open at any angle
• Boat hatches and vehicle conversions

Frequently asked questions

Can a lockable gas spring replace a standard one?
Mechanically yes, if length, force and fittings match — but you must route and mount the release system, so plan the lever or cable position first.

How much load does the lock hold?
A rigid-locking spring holds forces well above its extension force in the locked state — the exact figure depends on the model. For safety-critical holds, combine with a mechanical stop such as a safety locking tube.

Do lockable springs wear faster?
No — service life is comparable to standard struts. The release mechanism should be actuated fully, not partially, to avoid valve wear.

Explore our lockable gas springs with rigid or flexible locking — release heads, levers and cables are in stock, and quantity discounts apply automatically from 2 units.