Dampers for luggage compartments
Well cushioned above the clouds
Suspa has developed dampers with overload protection for overhead compartments in passenger aircraft. The Softline dampers are already in use in almost 300 aircraft from a major aircraft manufacturer.
Suspa, the specialist for gas springs, adjustment systems and dampers, has developed a damper especially for use in aircraft overhead stowage compartments that is not only user-friendly, but also stable and durable thanks to its integrated overload protection. Hard stops or excessive vibration amplitudes are avoided with the lightweight damper and the convenient, fast opening of the overhead bins is supported.
First technical solution against misuse destruction
The development is based on an in-service problem faced by cabin outfitters: the opening time of overhead compartments is usually four to six seconds. If a passenger pulls on the flap of the overhead compartment, additional forces act on the compartments, which can weigh up to 45 kilograms, causing damage to the external components and the integrated dampers. Suspa counteracts this wear problem with a patent-pending overload protection system.
Two factors are decisive in the development of components for aviation: firstly, the applications generally require a small size. Secondly, weight plays a far greater role than in other applications, as every gram of weight in aviation results in additional costs.
The Suspa damper, which has been in use since the end of 2017, meets these requirements thanks to its slimmed-down design, which was made possible by the introduction of a new size with an outer diameter of 13 millimetres and a weight of less than 50 grams per piece in some cases, and the use of high-strength aluminum instead of steel: the damper is around 40 to 50 percent lighter compared to a normal industrial damper with a similar power density. The stable lightweight component can withstand up to 300,000 load changes and can therefore potentially be used for the entire service life of an aircraft.
The damper is also suitable for other weight-sensitive applications, such as electromobility. A project is currently being planned in which an e-truck is to be equipped with the high-performance component. The lightweight damper is always used when high power density and low weight are required - whether in electromobility applications or above the clouds in passenger aircraft. as












