Integrating air springs into lift table systems is a strategic decision for optimizing performance, reliability, and efficiency. At Tevema, we recognize the engineering challenges behind elevating platforms that require consistent force, adaptability, and vibration isolation. By implementing air springs in lift tables, we achieve a balance of mechanical durability and dynamic responsiveness. This article explores the benefits and limitations of using air springs in lift table applications and provides a comprehensive overview of what engineers and decision-makers should consider. A wide range of diameters and convolution types are available, from 80 mm to 950 mm in diameter and single, double, or triple convolution options. These technical options allow custom integration of air springs into both standard and specialized lift table systems. Our focus is on solutions that enhance industrial performance without the need for sliding seals, precision guides, or complex alignment mechanisms.
High force output with compact design
One of the key advantages of air springs is their ability to generate high force within a compact structure. Unlike traditional mechanical springs or hydraulic cylinders, air actuators operate with pressurized air, delivering linear motion with fewer moving parts. This is especially advantageous in lift tables that require limited installation height but demand substantial lifting force. A double-convolution unit with a diameter of 410 mm can deliver over 75 kN of force at 7 bar. These units have a compressed height as low as 60 mm, which allows minimal vertical space usage. Despite this, they produce strong upward strokes and can support high static and dynamic loads. Additionally, air springs avoid metal-to-metal contact, reducing friction and wear. The low natural frequency, typically under 3 Hz, ensures reduced structural vibration. Their pressure-based actuation delivers controlled, uniform motion, supporting both precision lifting and industrial ruggedness in compact mechanical envelopes.
Enhanced vibration and noise isolation
Lift tables often operate in environments where vibration sensitivity and acoustic isolation are important factors. Here, rubber air bellows stand out with their ability to isolate more than 99% of unwanted vibrations. The flexible structure of the bellows allows them to absorb shock loads and sudden impacts effectively. Typical natural frequency values range from 1.2 Hz to 4.6 Hz, depending on the air spring configuration and internal pressure. With these low frequencies, air bellows outperform traditional coil springs and elastomer mounts in isolation performance. The use of multi-ply reinforcement and symmetrical convolution geometry ensures stable operation even under alternating dynamic loads. The result is extended machine life, reduced wear on connected components, and minimized resonance effects. Structurally transmitted noise is also significantly reduced thanks to the damping properties of the rubber and the sealed air column. The consistent behavior across variable heights makes these isolators ideal for industrial height-adjustable systems.
Resistance to corrosion and harsh environments
In industrial settings, lift tables are frequently exposed to chemicals, moisture, and temperature extremes. Tevema air springs are constructed using a variety of elastomer compounds, such as EPDM, nitrile, chlorobutyl, and natural rubber, offering tailored performance based on environmental conditions. For example, EPDM compounds operate reliably from -20 °C to +115 °C, resisting ozone, heat, and outdoor exposure. For chemical-rich environments, chlorobutyl is preferred due to its resistance to acids and aggressive agents. When corrosion resistance is essential, we utilize AISI-304 stainless steel components, which protect the internal assembly from degradation. These steel elements are available in crimped, bead-ring, and dismountable formats. The outer and inner rubber layers, reinforced with textile plies, maintain sealing integrity under pressure and movement. These specifications allow air springs to function effectively in sectors such as food production, chemical processing, and heavy equipment environments, where exposure to aggressive elements is unavoidable.
Adjustable height with pressure variation
Unlike fixed mechanical springs, air bellows provide dynamic height adjustment by altering the internal pressure. In lift table applications, this allows users to regulate the lifting height precisely without relying on additional actuators or manual adjustments. For instance, a triple convolution unit with a diameter of 310 mm and a design height of 300 mm can deliver 44 kN of force. At the same time, its stroke and motion range can be adjusted by modifying the air pressure from 2 to 8 bar. This feature is particularly useful in assembly lines or ergonomic workstations, where workpiece height needs to be aligned with operator comfort or process consistency. Additionally, air springs support tilt compensation up to 25 degrees and lateral misalignment absorption of up to 30 mm. These factors contribute to safer operation, better system alignment, and less reliance on expensive precision mechanics. Overall, pressure-driven motion enables real-time adaptability to changing loads or tasks.
Long service life and low maintenance
One of the most attractive features of air bellows systems is their maintenance-free operation. With no sliding seals or lubrication points, air springs exhibit minimal wear, even over long operating cycles. The typical service life far exceeds that of hydraulic cylinders, especially in applications with frequent cycling and load variation. For instance, four-ply air springs can handle 12 bar working pressure, achieving higher output forces and longer fatigue resistance. At Tevema, we engineer our air springs with modular components, including dismountable and crimped configurations. This allows for easy replacement or refurbishment of components without dismantling the entire system. The long-life expectancy is further enhanced by the flexible rubber construction, which is more forgiving to misalignments and shock loads compared to rigid cylinders. These units are immune to stick-slip behavior, improving operational smoothness. Their sealed construction prevents dust and moisture ingress, allowing safe operation in dusty, wet, or outdoor environments.
Design versatility and mounting options
Lift tables come in various configurations, each requiring a unique approach to actuator integration. Our air springs are available in bead ring, dismountable, and crimped designs, providing mounting options that suit every need. Whether your platform needs threaded holes, bead plate fixtures, or blind nuts, our portfolio has a compatible solution. Typical mounting dimensions include M8 to M10 threaded holes and G1/4 to G3/4 air inlets, allowing compatibility with standard fittings. The compact installation height of air bellows is particularly advantageous when space is limited. Even high-force models maintain a small compressed height, allowing engineers to integrate them into narrow structural cavities. Combined with adjustable air ports and customizable end plates, air springs offer full adaptability to your system layout. From a design perspective, using air springs simplifies the assembly process, reduces part counts, and facilitates modular integration. This level of design freedom allows for faster prototyping, easier maintenance, and scalability of the system for future upgrades.
Considerations and limitations
Despite their many advantages, air springs also come with limitations that engineers should account for. First, air supply dependency is a critical factor. Lift tables using air springs must be connected to a stable compressed air source or pressure control unit. Inconsistent supply can lead to performance degradation or unstable platform behavior. Second, while air springs offer excellent force output, their response time may not match that of electromechanical actuators in high-speed or precision-critical applications. The compressibility of air introduces a slight delay in movement, which could be a concern for certain automated environments. Finally, temperature sensitivity of the rubber compounds must be considered. Although we offer multiple elastomer variants, extremely low or high temperatures can still affect material elasticity and air tightness. Proper selection of compound type, as well as protective enclosures, can mitigate these issues effectively. In summary, air springs remain robust, but application context must guide proper system selection and integration.
Why air springs are a smart investment for lift tables
Air springs provide a unique combination of force capacity, flexibility, and reliability, making them ideal for modern lift table designs. At Tevema, our engineering teams focus on delivering customized solutions that align with your operational requirements. Whether your goal is to reduce system complexity, increase load stability, or improve ergonomics, air springs present a cost-effective and technically superior option. Models range in stroke length from 30 mm to 400 mm, covering most lift table applications with varying load profiles. By investing in high-quality, low-maintenance air springs, you reduce your total cost of ownership while gaining access to advanced performance capabilities. With multiple configurations and material options available, we ensure a solution tailored to your environment, from factory automation to heavy-duty assembly lines. As industries shift toward more sustainable, adaptive, and cost-efficient systems, the role of air springs in lift tables will only grow. We invite you to explore how Tevema’s engineered air spring solutions can optimize your lifting applications.