Hydraulic cylinders have many applications in the hydraulic industry. Most of the time, the cylinder performs work by converting the energy into fluids. The mode of conversion leads to many types of hydraulic cylinders. Find below the most common types of hydraulic cylinders you can buy.
1. Single Acting Cylinders
A single-acting cylinder has a port that works in one direction only. When a liquid or a gas enters the cylinder barrel, the rod will increase in size. For the rod to return to its initial state, the cylinder may use an external force or a load string. An example of single-acting hydraulic cylinders is the hydraulic jack used in the auto industry.
2. Double Acting Cylinders
A double-acting cylinder's ports are on both the rod and head parts. This design enables the hydraulic cylinder to move fluids more efficiently. The ports at both ends will control the movement of fluids within the cylinder. Hence, liquids and gases in double-acting cylinders can flow in two directions.
For example, if a liquid in the cylinder moves towards the rod section, the piston rod will shrink. In contrast, the piston rod will increase in size when the fluid flows toward the head section. The ability of the liquid to move in two directions means that a double-acting hydraulic cylinder can help to raise and lower equipment.
3. Nested Cylinders
The possible applications of hydraulic systems have significantly increased, and manufacturers are trying to develop more special designs. One of the latest designs involves putting together at least three cylinders. The combination of many cylinders creates a system with varying forces and speeds. Hence, hydraulic cylinders can do many things during a single stroke.
4. Rotating Cylinder
All the cylinders above don't rotate, which may limit their applications in many industries. That is why some manufacturers produce the rotating cylinder type with linear motion. The rotating cylinder design resembles that of a non-rotating cylinder in most aspects. The main difference is that the rotating cylinder contains a distributor component that can provide fluids to the rod and head ends of the cylinder. In addition, the rotating cylinder includes passages to allow the inflow of oil on both sections of the cylinder.
5. Low Height Cylinders
Low-height hydraulic cylinders may be ideal if you have limited space or want to move the cylinder around. The low-height cylinders have the exact working mechanism as many of the cylinders listed above but are lighter and smaller. However, you are only likely to find this type of cylinder in the single-acting model. Also, you can't use the low-acting hydraulic cylinder to perform activities requiring tremendous force.
6. High Tonnage Cylinders
Get a high-tonnage cylinder if your projects require a heavy lifting force. These cylinders can lift very heavy items that weigh over 1,000 tonnes. You can also use the high-tonnage cylinders for stability and protection for your loads. Hydraulic cylinders may use double-acting or single-acting working mechanisms.
7. Tie-Rod Cylinders
The tie-rod cylinder has a threaded steel rod to stabilize the components of the hydraulic cylinder. These cylinders also come with end caps to block fluid leaks. Hence, these cylinders have many applications in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. Those who buy tie-rod cylinders can expect easy repair, assembly, and maintenance of the cylinders.
Using Cylinders
Hydraulic cylinders are available in multiple models and styles. Your choice of a hydraulic cylinder will depend on your needs and budget. For the best hydraulic cylinders, reach out to Quad Fluid Dynamics, Inc.
We have been providing high-quality hydraulic rebuilding and support services since 1972. Our products are ideal for the automotive, mining, military, molding, and marine industries.
Contact us for hydraulic diagnostics, upgrades, design, and manufacturing.
