In industrial environments, holding a component in place is rarely as simple as stopping movement. Machines vibrate, loads shift, and operators interact with equipment in ways that introduce constant, variable forces. In these conditions, a rigid locking system can actually work against long-term performance by transferring shock directly into surrounding structures. Elastic locking offers a more practical solution by holding position while still managing the energy created by real-world operation.
Elastic locking is a position-holding method used in ACE Controls locking gas springs that allows for controlled micro-movement under load. When engaged, the gas spring holds the rod securely in place, preventing unintended movement. At the same time, it allows slight, elastic deflection when external forces such as vibration or impact occur. This combination provides stability without creating a harsh, inflexible stop.
What Is Elastic Locking?
Elastic locking is a position-holding method used in ACE Controls locking gas springs that allows for controlled micro-movement under load. When engaged, the gas spring holds the rod securely in place, preventing unintended movement. At the same time, it allows slight, elastic deflection when external forces such as vibration or impact occur. This combination provides stability without creating a harsh, inflexible stop.
In practical terms, elastic locking holds a position securely but not harshly.
What’s the Difference Between Rigid and Elastic Locking Systems?
Rigid locking systems are designed to eliminate movement entirely, holding a component in place with no allowance for deflection. While this approach may seem ideal, it often creates unintended consequences in real industrial environments. When vibration, impact, or load changes occur, a rigid lock has nowhere to dissipate that energy, forcing shock directly into surrounding structures, mounts, and bearings. Elastic locking behaves differently. It holds position just as securely, but allows controlled micro-movement under load, absorbing shock and isolating vibration instead of transferring it. This elastic response reduces peak forces, lowers structural stress, and protects both equipment and operators. The result is a system that maintains precise positioning while remaining far more forgiving in dynamic, real-world applications.
| Feature | Elastic Locking | Rigid Locking |
| Position holding | Yes | Yes |
| Shock absorption | Yes | No |
| Vibration isolation | High | Low |
| Structural stress | Reduced | Higher |
| Forgiveness under load changes | Yes | No |
The Benefits of Elastic Locking
In practical applications, elastic locking is especially valuable in systems where conditions are not static. Adjustable machine guards, access panels, workstations, and industrial enclosures often experience changing loads and frequent operator interaction. Automation and packaging equipment must hold positions accurately while operating at high speeds and under constant vibration. Medical and laboratory equipment requires stable positioning without sudden or jarring motion. In each of these cases, elastic locking provides secure positioning while protecting both the equipment and the user.
Over the life of a machine, the benefits of elastic locking become even more apparent. By reducing structural stress and absorbing shock at the point of motion, elastically locking gas springs help extend component life, minimize maintenance needs, and improve overall system reliability. The controlled movement also contributes to smoother operation and improved operator safety, particularly in applications where manual adjustment is common.
Why Elastic Locking?
ACE Controls recommends elastic locking when the real operating conditions call for it, not the perfect idealized ones. Equipment rarely experiences perfectly steady loads, and locking systems should reflect that reality. Elastic locking allows designers and engineers to hold positions with confidence while managing the forces that would otherwise shorten equipment lifespan or compromise performance.
Ultimately, elastic locking is not about allowing movement; it is about controlling it intelligently. By holding position while absorbing shock and vibration, elastic locking supports safer operation, longer service life, and more reliable industrial systems.