From Kitchen Cabinets to Heavy Machinery: Surprising Uses of Gas Struts
When most people think of gas struts, they picture a car boot lifting gracefully or a bonnet staying securely propped open. While these are common uses, the humble gas strut has quietly found its way into far more corners of life than you might imagine. From fine furniture to massive industrial gear, gas struts play a behind-the-scenes role that deserves the spotlight.
Let’s explore some of the most surprising and diverse places these mechanical marvels are used.
1. Furniture That Feels Like Magic
Gas struts are revolutionizing modern furniture design. Think of that bed frame that effortlessly lifts for under-bed storage or the kitchen cabinet door that glides upward instead of swinging out. Gas struts make these movements not just possible but elegant. They allow for space-saving designs, soft-closing mechanisms, and user-friendly ergonomics in everything from cupboards to recliner chairs.
Manufacturers and designers are embracing gas struts to combine form and function without compromise.
2. Medical Equipment with Precision
In hospitals and clinics, gas struts help create safer, more ergonomic experiences for staff and patients alike. Adjustable examination tables, hospital beds, and mobile carts often rely on gas struts to provide smooth, reliable motion with minimal effort. Their silent operation is particularly important in sensitive environments where noise needs to be kept to a minimum.
When paired with quality fittings and corrosion-resistant materials, they become ideal for sterile or high-cleanliness environments.
3. Outdoor Equipment That Withstands the Elements
Whether it’s a caravan hatch, a BBQ lid, or even the arm of a solar panel bracket, gas struts help outdoor products work more efficiently. Their weather resistance and high load capacity make them well-suited for marine applications, camper trailers, and outdoor storage units.
Properly rated gas struts ensure lids and panels don’t slam shut in wind or rain, improving safety and convenience.
4. Agricultural and Industrial Machinery
On a much larger scale, gas struts are used in heavy-duty settings such as agricultural implements, construction vehicles, and factory equipment. These struts help control access panels, assist in lifting heavy components, and stabilize working parts. Their durability under load makes them invaluable in environments where downtime means real financial loss.
This is where Schutts Industrial shines, providing tailored solutions that meet stringent requirements for strength, cycle life, and performance in rugged conditions.
5. Aviation and Aerospace
It might surprise you to learn that gas struts are even trusted in the sky. Aircraft service panels, overhead storage bins, and cockpit components all benefit from controlled movement and reliable positioning. Aerospace-grade struts are built to withstand temperature swings and vibrations, all while performing flawlessly.
Precision, reliability, and compactness are what make gas struts ideal for this high-stakes industry.
6. Accessibility Devices
Gas struts are often hidden within devices that support mobility and accessibility. Think of wheelchair lifts, stair-assist chairs, or adjustable-height benches. In each case, the gas strut helps reduce the physical effort required to operate the device, making it easier for users and caregivers.
These applications demonstrate the human impact gas struts can have—creating inclusive solutions for real-world needs.
7. Automotive Uses Beyond the Bonnet
Of course, we can’t ignore their starring role in the automotive world. Beyond tailgates and hatches, car bonnet gas struts are essential for keeping engine access safe and efficient. But gas struts also play key roles in glovebox dampers, seat adjustments, and utility compartment lids. Wherever smooth, controlled motion is needed, they’re there.
Final Word
Gas struts might be small, but their usefulness stretches across nearly every industry—from your home kitchen to complex aerospace systems. Their ability to improve safety, comfort, and user experience makes them indispensable. With Schutts Industrial leading the charge in customized, high-performance gas strut solutions, no application is too big—or too unexpected.
