Hey there! As a supplier of Murphy Bed Gas Springs, I often get asked about how to calculate the number of gas springs needed for a Murphy bed. It's a crucial question because getting the right number ensures the bed operates smoothly and safely. In this blog, I'll walk you through the process step by step.
Understanding the Basics of Murphy Bed Gas Springs
First off, let's talk a bit about what Murphy bed gas springs are. They're those nifty little devices that help lift and lower your Murphy bed with ease. You can check out our Murphy Bed Gas Spring options on our website to get an idea of what they look like and the different types available.
These gas springs work by using compressed gas to provide a counterbalance force. When you're trying to lift the heavy bed up or bring it down, the gas springs do a lot of the heavy - lifting, making the whole process a breeze.
Factors to Consider Before Calculating
Before we jump into the calculations, there are a few things you need to take into account:
1. Bed Size and Weight
The size and weight of your Murphy bed are the most important factors. A larger and heavier bed will obviously require more support from the gas springs. Measure the length, width, and height of your bed frame, and then weigh it. You can use a regular household scale if it's big enough, or take it to a local hardware store that has a larger scale.
2. Mounting Points
The number and location of the mounting points on your bed frame also matter. Gas springs need to be attached securely to the bed frame and the wall or cabinet where the bed is installed. Make sure you have enough suitable mounting points for the gas springs you plan to use.
3. Desired Ease of Use
How easy do you want it to be to open and close the bed? If you want a really smooth and effortless operation, you might need more gas springs or ones with a higher force rating.
The Calculation Process
Step 1: Determine the Total Weight of the Bed
As I mentioned earlier, weigh your Murphy bed. Let's say your bed weighs 150 pounds. This is the total weight that the gas springs will need to support.
Step 2: Choose the Right Gas Spring Force Rating
Gas springs come with different force ratings, which are measured in pounds or newtons. You need to choose a gas spring with a force rating that can handle a portion of the bed's weight. A good rule of thumb is to select gas springs that can support about 20 - 30% of the total bed weight each.
If your bed weighs 150 pounds, and you choose gas springs with a 30 - pound force rating, each gas spring can support 30 pounds.
Step 3: Calculate the Number of Gas Springs
Divide the total weight of the bed by the force rating of the gas spring. Using our example, if the bed weighs 150 pounds and each gas spring has a 30 - pound force rating, then 150 / 30 = 5. So, you would need 5 gas springs.
However, this is a very basic calculation. In reality, you also need to consider the mounting points and the distribution of the weight. You might not be able to use exactly 5 gas springs depending on the available mounting points.
Step 4: Adjust for Mounting and Distribution
If you have limited mounting points, you might need to use gas springs with a higher force rating. For example, if you only have 3 suitable mounting points, you can choose gas springs with a 50 - pound force rating (since 150 / 3 = 50).
Also, make sure the gas springs are distributed evenly across the bed frame. This will ensure that the weight is balanced and the bed operates smoothly.
Other Considerations
Using Different Types of Gas Springs
There are different types of gas springs available, such as Bonnet Gas Spring. These can have different features and force - delivery characteristics. You might want to consider using a combination of different types of gas springs to get the best performance.
Safety First
When installing gas springs on your Murphy bed, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the gas springs are installed correctly and that all the mounting hardware is tightened properly. This will prevent any accidents or malfunctions.
Additional Tips
Check Compatibility
Before you buy gas springs, make sure they are compatible with your bed frame and the installation environment. Some gas springs might not be suitable for certain types of bed frames or mounting configurations.
Consider Future Use
If you plan to add any additional features to your Murphy bed in the future, like a thicker mattress or some storage compartments, you might want to choose gas springs with a slightly higher force rating or plan for additional gas springs from the start.
Conclusion
Calculating the number of gas springs needed for a Murphy bed isn't that complicated once you understand the factors involved. By considering the bed size and weight, mounting points, and desired ease of use, you can make an informed decision.
If you're still not sure about how many gas springs you need for your Murphy bed, don't worry! We're here to help. As a supplier of Murphy Bed Gas Springs, we have a team of experts who can assist you with your calculations and recommend the best gas springs for your specific needs. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional furniture maker, we can provide you with high - quality gas springs and excellent customer service.
If you're interested in our Murphy Bed Gas Spring products or have any questions about gas springs in general, like our Gas Struts for Tool Box, feel free to reach out to us. We'd love to have a chat with you and discuss your requirements. Contact us today to start the procurement process and get your Murphy bed up and running smoothly!
References
- General knowledge from the gas spring industry
- Experience in supplying Murphy Bed Gas Springs
