SKF says the latest range of Stabilus Lift-O-Mat gas springs and dampers has been developed to offer designers a wide range of options for designing safe, reliable and cost-effective opening systems. Heavy panels, windows, skylights, roof vents and smoke exhaust flaps can benefit from controlled, force-assisted opening and gentle closing, safe positioning or fast shoot functions.
These new Lift-O-Mat hydropneumatic gas springs feature a defined speed curve, with dynamic damping in compression and extension, providing a gradual reduction in the opening speed to prevent accidental slamming shut and allow easy and safe access where required. When increased damping is required, the Lift-O-Mat is available with hydraulic damping to reduce the speed as the end position approaches. The combined use of oil- and gas-filled internal chambers and patented labyrinth pistons provides greater control over the damping range and, depending on the viscosity and volume of oil used, determines the damping degree and range, respectively.
Similarly, the Hydro-Lift and Inter-Stop dampers have the same compression function as the Lift-O-Mat range but incorporate a valve closing system to provide additional hold functions over the entire adjustment range; this can, for example, allow safe and variable positioning of tilted windows at any angle. The Hydro-Lift has additional weight holding capability, while both models prevent uncontrolled fast and noisy closing under normal conditions, as well as significantly reducing wear and tear of the entire moving structure over the course of its life.
Also in the range is the Stab-O-Shoc family of gas springs; these products are designed as a standard motion and lid stop damper. The damping force can be applied either in the direction of tension or compression. As simple lid end stop and motion dampers, they are designed for vertical, orientation-specific mounting and can be used in applications such as smoke extraction flaps.
All Stabilus products are manufactured in compliance with DIN EN ISO 9001 and the international standard ISO/TS 16949 and are supported by a network of SKF sales and technical teams.