Hydraulic cylinders are one of the essential components of a hydraulic system. Also called actuators or hydraulic motors, the cylinder houses the piston and piston rod is closed on one end with a cylinder cap and at the other by a cylinder head which is where the piston comes out.
There are several different types of hydraulic cylinder. The type of hydraulic cylinder in the hydraulic system depends on the application; the type of job that the hydraulic system is doing.
Telescopic Hydraulic Cylinders
Typically used in larger hydraulic systems where a load is moved over a longer distance and especially when there is a small space for it to sit when not in use.
Telescopic cylinders have up to 6 tubular rods inside them, also known as sleeves, which are able to fit inside each other because they get smaller in diameter; like an old fashioned pocket telescope.
Often seen in applications such as dumper trucks where the hydraulic cylinder fits neatly underneath the bed of the truck but it then can be extended giving the truck bed extended lift, almost beyond what it looks like it should be able to do!
Tandem Hydraulic Cylinders
As the name suggests, tandem hydraulic cylinders work together to increase the force delivered. Think of a tandem bicycle; two sets of legs powering the one chain. In the case of the tandem hydraulic cylinder, two pistons are connected to the same piston rod enabling that rod to deliver more power than one single piston alone.
Double Acting Cylinders
Double acting hydraulic cylinders are able to exert force in both directions because they have two ports for hydraulic hosing, one at each end. This is used in many applications where is there is not an external force, such as gravity, to send the piston back to its starting position or for when a high level of force or power is required in both directions.
Double-acting cylinders can be found in hydraulic systems used for opening and closing doors, the landing gear on aeroplanes or in construction machinery.
Single Acting Cylinders
A single-acting hydraulic cylinder can exert hydraulic force in one direction only. Often the piston is returned to its starting point with an external force such as gravity or with a spring mechanism.
These hydraulic cylinders are commonly found in manufacturing and packaging factories.
Jack Cylinders
A jack is sometimes used as another name for a single acting cyclinder, particularly those that use gravity for the return. However, a jack cyclinder is also a mobile unit used for lifting in a variety of applications. They can come in a range of sizes which correspond to the weight they can lift.
Whatever the kind of cylinder and hydraulic system you have, if you need a check-up service, or if you need a problem identifying and rectifying or if a hydraulic cyclinder needs maintenance or replacement, get in touch with us at MCH Hydraulics and we’ll be happy to help get your hydraulic system running at it should be.