Gas struts do a lot of quiet work in factories, workshops, and on the water. They hold machinery access panels open, lift safety covers, and keep boat hatches steady. In these settings, a failed strut isn’t just inconvenient. It can stop production or put someone at risk. Here’s how to choose struts that do the job.
Industrial applications
Common industrial uses for gas struts include:
- Machinery access panels and equipment doors
- Safety covers and guards
- Toolboxes and tool chests
- Electrical cabinets
- Manufacturing equipment and storage systems
Heavier panels and covers need high-force struts, often with thicker rods and bodies. Lighter items like tool chests and electrical cabinets usually suit light to medium force struts.
Marine applications
On boats, gas struts support hatches, deck lids and compartment covers. Saltwater is the biggest enemy here. Standard steel struts can rust quickly, damaging the rod surface and wearing out the seal.
For marine use, stainless steel struts are the right choice. They resist corrosion in saltwater environments and last much longer than standard struts on the water. The same applies to coastal sites, wash-down areas and food processing environments.
Key questions before you order
- How heavy is the lid or panel, and where are the mounting points?
- What are the extended and compressed lengths needed?
- What force rating, in Newtons, is required?
- Will the strut face moisture, salt, chemicals or heat?
- What end fittings and brackets are needed?
Don’t overlook mounting hardware
End fittings, ball studs and brackets matter as much as the strut. Mismatched or worn hardware can let a strut pop off under load. Using the right mounting kit helps the strut work safely and as designed.
When standard sizes don’t fit
Industrial equipment often has unusual dimensions. A custom strut can be built to your rod diameter, body diameter, extended length, compressed length and force. Schutts Industrial builds custom struts in Melbourne with a 24–48 hour production time. They also stock struts from small 6mm rod units through to heavy-duty 28mm industrial units, plus stainless steel options.
The Schutts website also has a gas strut calculator. It generates a quote code you can send through for pricing and availability.
Delivery for businesses interstate
Businesses in South Australia can order through Gas Struts Adelaide, with delivery to Adelaide in 4–6 business days. In NSW, Gas Struts Sydney delivers to Sydney in 3–5 business days. Free metro shipping applies on orders over $500 AUD ex-GST.
The takeaway
In tough environments, the right strut is about more than size. Match the force to the load, choose stainless steel where corrosion is a risk, and use proper mounting hardware. Get those right and your struts will keep working long after cheaper options fail.
