Cylinder configurations come in three major types. They are welded, tie-rod, and ram styles. The tie-rod cylinders make use of threaded high-strength steel tie-rods, which offer additional stability and are usually on the outer part of the cylinder housing. Welded cylinders have a welded, heavy-duty cylinder housing and require no tie rods since its barrel have been welded directly into the end caps. Ram cylinders are just like their names. The cylinder using very high pressure just pushes straight ahead. Ram cylinders are mostly used for heavy-duty applications and usually push loads instead of pulling. For all the types of cylinders, some of the crucial measurements entail bore diameter, stroke, and rod diameter.
Types of Mounting Methods
Cylinder performance is also determined by another important factor, which is the mounting method. In general, fixed mounts that are on the cylinder’s center line are the best for force transfer on a straight line and the avoidance of wear. Some common types of mounting are:
Flange mounts
These are rigid and strong but perform poorly if misaligned. Professionals recommend rod end mounts if a major loading places the piston rod under tension, while cap end mounts are recommended for thrust loads.
Side-mounted cylinders
These are easy to service and install, but they generate a turning moment when force is applied to the load, and these increases wear and tear. To prevent this, a stroke that is as long as the bore size should be specified for side-mounted cylinders. Also, side mounts must be well aligned as well as the load guided and supported.
Center line lug mounts
This absorbs the force on the cylinder’s center line but needs a dowel pin to secure its lugs to inhibit movement under shock conditions or at higher pressures.
For more information on Hydraulic Parts in Gary Indiana, visit Miller Hydraulic Service Inc.
