What Are the Types of Hydraulic Cylinders?
You’ve probably heard the term “hydraulic cylinder” before as they are used in a variety of industries like manufacturing, construction, and civil engineering. But what exactly is it and what does it do? To put it simply, hydraulic cylinders are mechanical devices that are used when a strong push or pull force is required. For example, a hydraulic cylinder in an excavator operates its linkages, which is what allows the machine to expand and move.
Similar to air compressors, hydraulic cylinders vary depending on the machine they’re powering and the amount of force needed. We’ve broken it down to help you learn more about the different types of hydraulic cylinders and which is best for a future project you may take on.
Here are the types of hydraulic cylinders you should know about:
- Single Acting Cylinders
- Double Acting Cylinders
- Tie-Rod Cylinders
- Welded Rod Cylinders
- Telescopic Cylinder
Need service or repair for your hydraulic cylinder? Contact Air & Hydraulic Equipment, Inc. today to learn more about our services.
Single Acting Cylinders
Single-acting cylinders are found in most kinds of reciprocating engines like petrol and diesel engines. As they operate smaller mechanical devices, they’re generally lightweight and low maintenance. In order to operate, air is supplied through one port to one side of the piston which causes the rod to move in one direction such as lifting an object.
Double Acting Cylinders
As the name suggests, a double-acting cylinder is similar to a single acting cylinder but uses two ports to supply air instead of one. This allows for more control over the movement as the pressurized air is moving both ways and operates faster while using less energy. However, there are some disadvantages as it is more costly than a single cylinder and air consumption may be calculated at different speeds in certain situations.
Tie-Rod Cylinders
Tie-rod cylinders are often used in industrial factory applications like agricultural and construction equipment to support, lift, and press heavy loads. They’re held together by four or more threaded bolts and provide power in both directions, extending and retracting. While they typically use more, they’re still easy to maintain, repair, and assemble.
Welded Rod Cylinders
Welded rod cylinders are more complex but come with the ability to withstand higher pressures and are more compact. They’re used for things like hydraulic presses and steel mills. In order to withstand high levels of force and harsh conditions, they are built to be more durable and have a more customizable design. However, this comes with the disadvantage of being difficult to repair.
Telescopic Cylinders
A telescopic cylinder is a single or double acting cylinder that contains more than five tubings nested inside each other. They’re used for things like dump trucks and garbage trucks to lift up the truck and handle very heavy loads.
Let the Experts at Air & Hydraulic Equipment, Inc. Help You
Our Tennessee hydraulic cylinder repair facility has an in-house heavy-duty tear-down table allowing us to accommodate all sizes and styles of cylinders. We can provide you with a cost estimate and a failure analysis for each repair and are available for onsite and emergency service on all components.
Ready to get started? Contact us to speak to a cylinder pump & valve repair or component service specialist today!
