Shock absorbers that only resist motion in one direction?

AI Thread Summary
Shock absorbers that allow motion in one direction while resisting it in the opposite direction are commonly found in screen door closers. These devices can be modified by removing the internal spring to achieve a desired slow-closing effect. For projects requiring such components, the technical term to search for is 'screen door closers,' which are simpler and more affordable than industrial shock absorbers. Industrial shock absorbers are available from various manufacturers and are designed for heavy machinery and equipment. Local manufacturers can be found through resources like Thomas Register.
BasketDaN
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I was just wondering if there are shock absorbers on the market that will allow motion in one direction freely, but resist motion in the opposite direction; thanks.
 
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You mean like the one on a screen door?
 
Don't forget to remove the spring. I used a screen door closer as a slow-closer on my kids' toybox. With the spring inside, it closed slowly... after first slamming shut like a steel trap! Removing the spring made it work like I wanted it to. Opens easily, closes slowly.
 
Thanks... do you know if there's a technical name for these things? I need to buy a couple for a project I'm doing for school.
 
BasketDaN said:
Thanks... do you know if there's a technical name for these things?
Unless you're looking for a specific brand, they're just called 'screen door closers'. Make sure you have the 'screen' type as opposed to a regular closer made for heavier doors. They're a lot cheaper and don't have all of the unnecessary adjustments like back-check and initial and final speed settings. Also, they're easier to mount and are linear rather than rotary in action.
 
Shock absorbers are made for industry and can be purchased with all sorts of different capabilities. They're used on heavy machinery, industrial equipment, all sorts of different things. Here's a few examples of some manufacturers:
http://www.taylordevices.com/tayd.htm
http://www.enertrols.com/hpm.htm
http://www.energy-kinetics.com/hydra.htm

If you want to find a local manufacturer, try Thomas Register.
http://www.thomasnet.com/nsearch.ht...ydraulic+shock&navsec=search&heading=75000406
 
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