General information on gas rams
Characteristics and function
Gas rams are used for Vieler lift-up hardware, for lifiting and holding support. The gas ram is a closed unit and consists of cylinder, sealing package, piston rod assembly and gas, as energy transmitter.
In addition the gas ram contains oil for lubrication of the piston rod and the sealing gasket and for dampening effects.
The performance of the gas ram is based on the compressibility of the enclosed gas (N2).
Gas rams are under pressure and should not be opened under any circumstance.
A) piston rod B) sealing element C) piston package D) oil E) cylinder
Vieler only uses gas rams manufactured by Stabilus.
LIFT-O-MAT gas rams
Hyraulic dampening at final extension point.
In general Lift-O-Mat gas rams are subject to a softer characteristic curve.
HYDRO-LIFT gas rams
The function of Hydro-Lift gas rams is similar to Lift-O-Mat gas rams, but with additional holding force This means that the gas rams has to be inserted with a higher pressure as it provides in extended position.
Warranty
The manufacturer's warranty is 2 (two) years from date of production
(print on the cylinder body XXX/YY = XXX = calendar day / YY = Year).
After production Stabilus makes a functional check according to AQL.
Vieler makes additional checks before shipment.
Nevertheless, slight loss of pressure occurs on some gas rams after months of storage or use.
Stocking
Gas rams should be stocked in vertical position, minimum with a 30° angle, with piston rod pointing to the bottom.
Incorrect storage or too long storage time may cause functionality problems.
The stock should be rotated according to the “first in – first out” principle.
Lifespan
Lifespan depends upon short storage time and regular usage.
After 50,000 cycles loss in pressure up to 10 % may occur.
Dependence on temperature
Cylinder colour: black
The standard gas rams are suitable for temperatures from –40°C (-40°F) up to +65°C (149°F).
Cylinder colour: silver
For hot food cases there is a gas ram with high temperature sealing package available. This gas ram is suitable for temperatures of –10°C (14°F) up to +110°C (230°F).
The pressure force depends on the surrounding temperature.
It increases with higher temperatures and decreases with lower temperatures.
Increase in force %
Gas ram temperature °C
Functional test prior to shipment
After assembly the front glass should be opened and closed in steps by graded movements to lubricate the piston rod and gasket in the sealing package.
This procedure is absolutely necessary for correct function.
Dangerous goods
For the transport
- Lift-O-Mat gas rams 600 N and higher
- Hydro-Lift gas rams 700 N and higher
and have to be marked as dangerous goods
Gas rams not assembled Code UN 3164
Gas rams assembled in hardware components or cases Code UN 3363
(only for air freight)
