Applications of hydraulic cylinders

Hydraulic cylinders, also known as actuators, play a very important role in the operation of many construction and industrial machines, including excavators, rollers, and even passenger and freight elevators. Hydraulic cylinders are devices that convert fluid energy into mechanical energy. It is important to note that a hydraulic motor is not the same as a pneumatic motor, in which the working medium is gas, primarily air. However, both hydraulic and pneumatic motors can be single- or double-acting. The most important components of a hydraulic cylinder are: the cylindrical body, inside which a piston can move, and a plunger or diaphragm. The reciprocating motion of these components forces fluid into the cylinder.

Hydraulic cylinders – how they work

In industrial automation, there are many types of devices used as actuators. Among them are hydraulic cylinders. The design of hydraulic cylinders is relatively simple. A standard hydraulic actuator consists of a cylinder-shaped body, front and rear covers (also called the gland and foot), a piston and piston rod with seals, and guide elements. The operating principle behind these types of actuators boils down to converting the pressure energy accumulated in the working fluid into mechanical energy. This enables the reciprocating motion of the actuator piston. Oil of appropriate density is most commonly used as the working fluid.

Practical applications of hydraulic cylinders

A distinguishing feature of hydraulic cylinders is their high power, which is why they are typically used wherever exceptional force is required. These devices are designed for continuous operation in industrial conditions, at a nominal pressure of up to 210 bar. They are also used, for example, in hydraulic presses or steel rolling mills at pressures up to 350 bar.