Modding where to get small hydraulic pistons

anyone know of any good place that sells small hydraulic pistons like the ones used in thermatakes sword m cases

 

An auto parts store would be your best bet. They will be a little pricey, but available.

 

I think Mcmaster Carr has them too.

 

Are they hydraulic? I thought they were gas struts

 

Since your in the US, check out Northern Tool. they have tons of them in different Pressure ratings and sizes. Much more reasonable prices then Places such as Advanced Auto or Pep boys.

 

Are you looking for a spring action that simply opens the door when the latch is released? or are you looking for something that is controllable?

If your looking for a simple spring action - open only, then a gas strut will be less expensive and easier to install.

If you want something controllable, where you can control the rate of open/close, then you'll want hydraulics. But that will require hoses, pump, actuators, and fluid.

Either way, let us know how the project goes and post some pics.

 

yea prabably a gas strut sounds better itll keep the inside look of my case clean

 

If you wanted a controllable system, you still wouldn't want to use hydraulics. All pistons leak. Hydraulic pistons leak oil. Pneumatic pistons leak air. Use pneumatic pistons or pneumatic springs aka gas struts.

 

yea thats why iv made up the decision of springs and struts! they seem to be the best choice. thnx guys for all your help

 

true but with pneumatic its all out or all in, there’s no control like there is with hydraulics. he obviously said he wasn’t going with the hydraulics but i just thought i would throw that out there

 

I don't thing he's wanting servo control anyway. He mentioned he wanted pistons similar to the ones used in Thermaltake's Sword-cases. Without being familiar with them, I'd say their pistons only use the extreme positions.

 

*cough* linear actuators *cough*