Lift Shock Sizing

[Sticks McGee]

I am building a shadowbox coffee table. The top is going to look like a window sash with 6 panes but will truly only be one piece of glass on the bottom of the top. I want to get two shock/lift cylinders. My question is how do you know what size/strength to get? The size of the top is 2'x4'. 3/4' oak frame with the grid being 3/4" wide by 1/2" thick oak..

 

[rattle_snake]

How far to do want it to open? Will it be latched shut?
I suggest making a best guess and doing some trial and error. You can adjust the resulting opening force of any gas shock somewhat by changing the operating angle and compression distance.

 

[Sticks McGee]

I would prefer it to stay shut by just the weight of the door but when I open it (this will not be often) i want it to stay open. Maybe at a 45 degree angle. I would just rather not have to hold it open and god forbid someone opens it and it slips while open and slams shut. I could put a latch on itto hold it closed but I would rather it not have a latch.

I have seen them range from like 8-10 lbs to 40lbs..

 

[rattle_snake]

40s are way too much. I used those for the similar purpose on a full size bed with a mattress on it. 8-10lb is likely more than enough. given the 45* you can calculate the length needed, . For the door to stay shut by itself, the closed angle need to be close to horizontal.

 

[Sticks McGee]

Thanks!

 

[Radix2]

Look for piano seat supports. They are made for this exact arrangement and work well. Not based on air cylinders, but on friction. It will hold it open and will prevent slamming, much smaller and simpler than lift cylinders. Also will look nicer.

Something like this, there are various types out there
http://www.rockler.com/soft-down-li...PL&sid=V9146&gclid=CODM0KmT4NACFQ-DaQodapIN_w

http://www.rockler.com/6-medium-dut...PL&sid=V9146&gclid=CKOOgNuS4NACFYO3wAodxbEI9g

 

[Sticks McGee]

Awesome!

thanks!