A hydraulic cylinder can be a very large component on a piece of equipment, a vehicle, agriculture and heavy-duty equipment, automated processing and manufacturing systems and a range of other applications.
In the most basic definition, hydraulic cylinders are mechanical actuators, or movers, which provide force in one direction. This force is generated through a unidirectional stroke, which in turn is achieved through the use of the pressure of hydraulic fluid.
There are several differences or options in hydraulic cylinders which should be carefully considered when making a selection. The different features and options in the cylinders make them a better choice for various applications and operations.
Single or Double Acting
Single acting cylinders only have the hydraulic fluid pushing from the bottom of the cylinder to raise the rod. The weight of the load or a spring or other mechanism, depending on the cylinder design, is used to retract the rod.
A double acting cylinder has two ports for fluid, one at the top and one at the bottom. The extension works the same as a single acting cylinder, but the top port is used to aid in the retraction. It is important to keep in mind there is still force only in one direction for moving a load.
Welded or Tie Rod
Welded hydraulic cylinders have a sleek cylinder housing or body where the upper and lower caps are welded to the body. The diameter of the cylinder can be kept as small as possible with this option.
A tie rod cylinder uses set of rods, which can be as few or four or up to 20 depending on the circumference. The rods hold the end caps of the cylinder in place and are bolted to the top and bottom.
Standard or Telescoping
A standard type of hydraulic cylinder will have a rod and lifting ability shorter than the length of the barrel of the cylinder. A telescoping cylinder has short segments of the rod, which nest inside each other, allowing for greater lifting distance.
