A locking gas spring incorporates a mechanism to enable the rod to be locked at any point in its travel. A plunger that protrudes from the rod actuates this mechanism. When this plunger is depressed the rod is free to operate as normal. When the plunger is released, which may be at any point in the stroke, the rod is locked in that position. IGS offers three types of locking gas springs, with the following characteristics when locked: FLEXIBLE good resistance to rod being pushed or pulledRIGID IN TENSION no flex when rod is being pulled, slight flex when rod being pushedRIGID IN COMPRESSION slight flex when rod being pulled, no flex when rod is being pushedAll three types of lockable gas springs have the same locking mechanism. This locking mechanism operates when the plunger rod is depressed by opening a valve in the piston. When the plunger rod is released the valve closes and the passage of oil or gas is prevented, locking the piston in that position. Aluminum Locking Gas SpringsIndustrial Gas Springs also offers gas springs with an aluminum body. These aluminum locking gas springs are mainly used by the Aerospace industry for weight and fuel efficiency considerations. Release ValveBoth flexible and rigid in tension gas springs can be supplied with a release valve, which allows the installer to reduce the force. This release valve also allows IGS to easily and economically recharge the gas spring should too much gas be released.