Stainless Steel Gas Springs: 2026 Procurement and Specification Guide

What Are Stainless Steel Gas Springs Used For?

Stainless steel gas springs are purpose-built components for marine, pharmaceutical, and chemical environments requiring total corrosion resistance.

In high-moisture or salt-laden environments, standard zinc-plated carbon steel struts succumb to oxidation within 6 to 12 months. When the chrome-plated rod surface begins to pit, the internal seal fails, and the unit loses its charge. Stainless steel units maintain their integrity by using alloys that do not suffer from galvanic or atmospheric corrosion.

I typically specify these components for applications where the cost of a failed hatch or cover exceeds the initial premium of the hardware. Using stainless steel is not just a durability upgrade; it is a critical safety specification for any access point subject to regular washdowns or marine exposure.

Why specify 316 grade stainless steel?

Grade 316 stainless steel provides superior resistance to chloride-induced pitting, essential for boat hatches and coastal equipment.

The addition of molybdenum sets 316 apart from 304 grade, providing a higher resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion. In coastal UK or US environments, salt spray settles into the nooks of end fittings and cylinder seals. 316 grade handles this saline aggression without surface degradation.

• Pitting resistance equivalent number (PREN) above 24
• Recommended for direct salt spray exposure
• Ideal for chemical plant washdown areas
• Superior longevity in high-salinity air

When is 304 grade stainless steel sufficient?

Grade 304 stainless steel offers cost-effective corrosion resistance for indoor industrial or food production environments without salt.

While 316 is the marine standard, 304 grade serves well in controlled industrial environments. If your machinery operates in a cleanroom or a food processing facility with frequent wet cleaning but no saltwater exposure, 304 provides adequate protection at a lower unit cost.

Feature	304 Stainless	316 Stainless
Salt Spray	Poor	Excellent
Cost	Base Level	15-20% Higher
Industry	Food/Industrial	Marine/Offshore

How Do I Select the Correct Gas Spring Size?

Size selection requires precise measurement of your stroke length, extended length, and the required Newton force for your specific lid.

Never rely on a part number from a rusted unit if you can measure the hardware itself. The extended length is the distance between the center points of the end fittings when the lid is fully open. If your current unit is compromised, use our gas spring force calculator to determine if your original Newton rating was actually appropriate for the load.

Why does stroke length matter for mounting?

Stroke length defines the total travel range of the lid, and incorrect sizing causes mechanical interference or incomplete opening.

The stroke is the difference between the extended and compressed lengths. If you specify a stroke that is too short, the gas spring will bottom out and potentially damage the lid hinges. If you specify one that is too long, the cylinder body will not fit within the footprint when the lid is fully closed.

How do I verify the required Newton force?

Newton force must account for the panel weight and the geometry of the hinge points to ensure the lid remains stable while open.

Many users make the mistake of choosing a force rating that matches the total weight of the lid. This is incorrect. You must calculate the force based on the torque requirements and the number of springs employed. Always check our industrial machinery guides for specific installation geometry advice.

Are There Specific Maintenance Steps for Stainless Struts?

Stainless steel gas springs require minimal maintenance, but regular rinsing and checking for seal damage extend their lifespan to 100k cycles.

Even though stainless resists rust, salt buildup can eventually impact the seal. I recommend an annual rinse with fresh water and a wipe-down of the rod surface. Do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as these can introduce micro-scratches that provide a starting point for corrosion.

How do I detect a failing seal?

Oil weeping around the rod guide or a drop in lift force are the primary signs that the internal seals are starting to fail.

Small amounts of oil film on the rod are normal, as this provides essential lubrication. However, a constant film or a drop in performance indicates seal wear. You can learn more about identifying these issues in our troubleshooting diagnostic guides.

Can these springs be re-gassed?

Stainless steel gas springs are sealed, maintenance-free units and cannot be recharged once the nitrogen charge has leaked out.

The cost of replacement is consistently lower than the risks associated with attempting to modify a pressurized cylinder. If your unit has lost force, it must be replaced as a complete assembly.