Professional Linear Dampers & Piston Dampers

Advanced hydraulic damping solutions for industrial motion control.

From precision miniature dampers to heavy-duty industrial applications, we provide comprehensive damping technology for smooth, controlled movement.

What is a Linear Damper?

Linear dampers, also known as soft absorbers, are devices used to control the speed of moving objects, allowing them to decelerate slowly and avoid sudden stops or shocks.

They generate resistance by compressing hydraulic oil or an oil-gas structure and allowing it to flow through one or multiple orifice. They are widely used in various industries, including automotive and furniture.

Why Choose Hydraulic Linear Dampers?

Hydraulic linear dampers offer superior performance compared to other damping technologies:

Damping TypeEnergy AbsorptionRebound RiskPerformanceApplications
Hydraulic (Our Technology)Converts kinetic energy to heat energyMinimal - energy dissipatedExcellent - customizable characteristicsIndustrial, precision applications
RubberElastic deformation stores energyHigh - stored energy creates reboundBasic - limited controlSimple, low-cost applications
SpringElastic deformation stores energyHigh - stored energy creates reboundBasic - limited controlSimple mechanical systems
PneumaticCompressed air through orificeMedium - depends on balanceGood - but less preciseMedium-duty applications

The benefits of linear dampers include:

1. Energy Absorption: They absorb energy by converting kinetic energy into heat, thereby reducing shock and vibration. 2. Bounce Risk: Bounce risk is minimized because energy is dissipated rather than stored. 3. Performance: They can be customized to meet specific application needs.

Linear dampers also excel in industrial and precision applications, providing precise control and stability. Their compact design allows them to be integrated into tight spaces, saving layout space. These features make linear dampers a preferred solution in many applications.

Our Linear Damper Product Series

Product Series
Total Length/mm ①Diameter/mm②Cylinder Length/mm③Used stroke/mmWith/without capWith/without self-return spring
Model for example68104214WithWithout

Φ6mm

Mini linear hydraulic dampers with one-way damping, featuring automatic spring return and re-arm mechanism. Ideal for precision control in compact applications.

Force Range: 0-100N
Precision Steel

Or

Stainless Steel

Applications: Precision instruments, small cabinet doors, electronic device covers

Φ8mm

Linear hydraulic dampers with one-way damping, automatic spring return and re-arm functionality. Perfect balance of size and performance.

Force Range: 0-350N
High-Grade Steel

Or

Stainless Steel

Applications: Medium-sized doors, automotive components, furniture hardware

Φ10mm

Standard linear hydraulic dampers with one-way damping and spring return. Offers reliable performance for medium-duty applications.

Force Range: 0-870N
Industrial Steel

Or

Stainless Steel

Applications: Industrial machinery, heavy furniture, automotive applications

Φ12mm

Heavy-duty linear hydraulic dampers with customizable stroke and damping direction. Features one-way damping with spring return, ideal for high-force applications.

Force Range: 0-2400N
Heavy-Duty Steel

Or

Stainless Steel

Applications: Heavy industrial equipment, large machinery, high-load systems

How Does a Linear Damper Work?

Energy Absorption Principles

When an object hits the piston rod, the motion is transferred to the oil in the pressure chamber through the piston rod. As a result, the oil inside the pressure chamber flows out of the orifices located in the inner tube. This causes compression in the pressure chamber. The product of this hydraulic pressure and the pressure-applied area of the piston is resistance, which acts on the colliding object.

The hydraulic pressure generated inside the pressure chamber is proportional to the square velocity of the colliding object, as long as the orifice size, oil viscosity, etc. are constant. This is called velocity-squared resistance.

Key Components

① Piston and Piston Rod

When an external force acts on a linear damper, this force will first be transmitted to the piston rod. The piston rod is a crucial component connecting the external object and the inside of the damper. Following this, the piston rod will push the piston connected to it to move inside the damper's cylinder, and the piston is typically a specially designed part with orifices on it.

② Hydraulic Oil

Linear dampers control motion by using fluid resistance. When force is applied, a piston moves within a cylinder filled with hydraulic oil. The oil is forced through small openings (orifices). This restricted flow creates a resistance force that opposes the motion, providing the damping effect.

The viscosity of the hydraulic oil is important because it affects the level of resistance. Different types of linear dampers, classified by overflow type (single or multi-hole) and thrust direction (push-in, pull-out, two-way), all rely on this principle of hydraulic oil creating resistance.

③ Orifices

Orifices are crucial in linear dampers because they are the primary means of controlling the damping force. They are small, precisely sized openings in the piston of the damper. As the piston moves, it forces hydraulic oil to flow through these orifices.

The size and design of the orifices directly regulate the rate at which the hydraulic oil can flow. Smaller orifices restrict the oil flow more, resulting in higher resistance and a greater damping force, thus slowing down the motion more significantly. Conversely, larger orifices allow for easier oil flow, leading to less resistance and a smaller damping force.

Linear damper structure 1

Component Display

Linear damper structure 2

Part Information

How To Design Damping Performance?

When an object strikes the piston rod, the motion is transferred to the oil in the pressure chamber, causing the oil to flow out through the orifice in the inner tube and compressing the pressure chamber. The resulting hydraulic pressure, multiplied by the piston's pressure area, creates resistance that slows down the colliding object. This resistance is proportional to the square of the object's velocity, known as velocity squared resistance. The following explains how to design a damping curve by altering the orifice design.

Single Orifice Type

Structural Features

  • Three structural variations:
  • Dashpot: Uses piston-cylinder tube clearance for damping.
  • Single-orifice: Integrates precision orifices in the piston to regulate damping.
  • Double-tube single-orifice: Adjustable design for diverse applications.
  • Core advantage: Orifice area stays constant through the full stroke → stable damping output.

Damping Performance Characteristics

  • Damping force scales with impact intensity and speed:
  • Greater impact/speed → stronger damping force.
  • As stroke progresses and speed decreases, force reduces proportionally → balanced motion control.

Single Orifice Type

Multiple Orifice Type

Structural Features

  • Dual-tube construction (outer + inner tube).
  • Damping force formula: Inner tube pressure (during piston stroke) x piston area (same as Single-Orifice Type).

Key Aspects

  • Initial orifice area is larger than Single-Orifice Type; area shrinks gradually with stroke to avoid excessive damping force.
  • Theoretically maintains constant damping force across the full stroke.
  • Custom orifice designs allow adjusting damping characteristics for different impact conditions.

Damping Performance Characteristics

  • Damping force scales with impact intensity and speed:
  • Higher impact/speed → stronger damping force.
  • As stroke progresses and speed drops, force diminishes → stable motion control.

Multiple Orifice Type

Multiple Varying Orifice Type

Structural Features

  • Dual-tube design (outer + inner tube), same as Multiple Orifice Type
  • Damping force formula: Inner tube pressure (during piston movement) x piston area (consistent with Single-Orifice and Multiple Orifice types).

Key Highlights

  • Unlike fixed-force Multiple Orifice Type, this series offers custom damping characteristics for specific uses.
  • 2-stage function:
  • 1st half of stroke: Absorbs kinetic energy.
  • 2nd half of stroke: Controls speed.
  • Matches air-cylinder thrust → optimal energy absorption in air-cylinder systems.

Damping Performance Characteristics

  • 1st half: Prioritizes energy absorption to reduce initial impact.
  • 2nd half: Switches to speed control → steady motion (no sudden stops).
  • Avoids under-damping (weak impact control) and over-damping (excessively slow movement) for air-cylinder compatibility.

Multiple Orifice Type

Groove Orifice Type

Structural Features

Single-tube design with an “orifice groove” (inner-wall recess/channel). Groove shape/size changes with piston stroke (back-and-forth movement).

Key Aspects

  • Similar to Multiple Orifice Type: Large initial orifice area; area shrinks gradually to prevent excessive damping force.
  • Different from Multiple Orifice Type: Orifice area adjusts smoothly (no “steps”) → no sudden force jumps during piston movement.
  • Smooth adjustment enables optimal energy absorption for specific uses (e.g., Autoinjectors and pens).

Damping Performance Characteristics

  • Damping force (resistance) depends on orifice size and piston speed:
  • Piston start (large orifice): Controlled resistance handles initial impact (e.g., part collisions) without jamming.
  • Stroke progression (smaller orifice): Resistance eases gradually → matches slower speed for stable motion (no jolts/pauses).
  • vs. Multiple Orifice Type: Less force fluctuation → smoother energy absorption, fewer motion changes, and more reliable performance.

Multiple Orifice Type

Technical Specifications

Common Specifications

  • Piston Rod Recovery Force: With returning spring ≤5N (0.5 kgf), Without returning spring ≤1.5N (0.15 kgf)
  • Main Unit Material: High-grade resin construction
  • Operating Temperature Range: 5~40°C (41~104°F)
  • Mounting Options: Various end configurations available
  • Stroke Options: Customizable stroke lengths
  • Damping Direction: One-way (Non self-return), two-way options available

Performance Characteristics

  • Velocity-Squared Resistance: Hydraulic pressure proportional to square of collision velocity
  • Energy Conversion: Kinetic energy converted to heat energy and dissipated
  • Customizable Damping: Adjustable characteristics through orifice design
  • Parallel Operation: Multiple units can be used in parallel for increased capacity

Installation and Usage Guidelines

Important Safety Precautions

  • Always use with an external stopper to prevent over-compression
  • Ensure sufficient mounting strength is secured for the damper
  • Do not use in vacuum environments or where oil contact may occur
  • Avoid applying eccentric loads to the damper
  • Handle with care to prevent damage from falling impacts

Installation Best Practices

  • Mounting: Secure both ends with appropriate fasteners
  • Alignment: Ensure proper axial alignment to prevent binding
  • Stroke Limits: Never exceed the specified stroke length
  • Parallel Installation: Two or more dampers can be used in parallel for increased capacity
  • Environmental: Protect from extreme temperatures and contamination

Operational Considerations

  • Do not press piston rod beyond used stroke (causes incomplete return)
  • Do not pull linear damper beyond used stroke (causes damage)
  • Large gaps between pressing and returning time may affect durability
  • Confirm performance in actual machine before use
First Image
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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a linear damper and a piston damper?
Linear dampers and piston dampers are essentially the same device. Both use a piston moving within a cylinder filled with hydraulic oil to create damping force. The terms are often used interchangeably, with "linear damper" emphasizing the linear motion control aspect, while "piston damper" highlights the internal piston mechanism.
How do I choose the right force range for my application?
The force range depends on the mass of the object being damped and the desired deceleration rate. For lightweight applications (under 5kg), our Φ6mm or Φ8mm dampers are suitable. For medium loads (5 - 20kg), consider Φ10mm dampers. For heavy - duty applications (over 20kg), our Φ12mm max dampers provide up to 2400N of force.
Can linear dampers be used in both directions?
Our standard dampers provide one - way damping with spring return. The damping action occurs during compression, while the spring provides return force. For applications requiring bidirectional damping, we offer specialized two - way damping configurations.
What maintenance do linear dampers require?
Linear dampers are generally maintenance - free devices. However, regular inspection for leaks, proper mounting, and ensuring the stroke limits are not exceeded will maximize service life. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and contamination.
How long do linear dampers last?
Service life depends on application conditions, but properly installed and operated linear dampers can provide millions of cycles. Factors affecting longevity include operating temperature, stroke frequency, load conditions, and environmental factors.
Can multiple dampers be used together?
Yes, two or more linear dampers can be used in parallel to increase the total damping force. This is particularly useful for heavy - duty applications or when redundancy is required. Ensure proper alignment and equal load distribution when using multiple units.

Applications and Industries

Mini Linear Damper

  • Insulin Pen Injection
  • Oven Hinge
  • Refrigerator door
  • Furniture, like drawer, gate

Damper with both end fittings

  • Door closer
  • Safety door

Benefits in Each Application

  • Noise Reduction: Eliminates slamming and impact noise
  • Safety: Prevents finger pinching and component damage
  • Smooth Operation: Provides controlled, predictable motion
  • Extended Life: Reduces wear on hinges and mounting hardware
  • Premium Feel: Adds sophistication to product operation

Need Expert Guidance on Linear Dampers?

Our engineering team can help you select the perfect damping solution for your specific application. Get professional consultation and custom solutions.