Both have advantages in particular applications. Manifold systems are hardier and provide low pressure rise, and stand-alone or drop-in gas springs are ideal when pressure rise and environmental conditions are not concerns. Conventional wisdom has it that metalformers must cut costs to survive. That may be true to a point, but here's a more accurate nugget: Metalformers must spend more wisely than ever before to survive. A prime example is the relatively recent trend of tool designers and builders, for in-die pressure needs, choosing individual hosed gas springs linked via a control panel to replace manifold assemblies for purely cost reasons. There's a problem with that, explains Mike Sanchez, manager of engineered products at Hyson Products, Brecksville, OH, a supplier of nitrogen-gas and hydraulic systems.
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