Classification of hydraulic cylinder applications

Cylinder manufacturers offer a wide range of cylinder options, helping to achieve the application and performance requirements. Many of the design options are according to international and national industrial standards, but several industries have their own design guidelines as well.

In case of specification of a hydraulic cylinder several factors must be taken into consideration:

  • Capacity (load capability) of the cylinder
  • Stroke distance requirement
  • Linear moving speed
  • Operating temperature range (minimum and maximum values)
  • Mounting style
  • Piston rod size
  • Cylinder configuration
  • Rod ends, rod threading
  • Seal system

As it is illustrated by above list, seal components – among the other factors – must be considered even during the cylinder specification. Why it is so important? Because seal performance and reliability are essential to the overall performance of the cylinders. That is why appropriate seal and seal system selection is required. Selection will be influenced by the cylinder type, design and by the operating and environmental conditions.

There is no industrial standard established or available for classification of cylinder application and/or operating conditions. However, it is still important to set certain criteria and parameter limits that help to describe and classify the hydraulic cylinder applications. The suggested criteria, parameter limits and classification are according to the chart below

 

Application parametersHYDRAULIC CYLINDER APPLICATION CLASSES
Light-dutyMedium-dutyHeavy-duty
System pressure MPa (psi)14 (2000)25 (3625)40+ (5800+)
Pressure peaksNone or rare and lowModerated, what does not exceed the system pressure significantly in combination with short
duration
High pressure peaks, what can exceed the system pressure several times. Can occur often in combination with longer
duration.
Temperature range °C (°F)Up to 60 (140)Up to 80 (176)Exceeding 80 (176) with peaks in excess of 120 (248)
Surface speed m/s (ft/min)0.1 (20)0.5 (100)1.0 (200)
Side loadingNone to minimal side load on guide components (short stroke cylinders and cylinders are in vertical
position)
Moderate side load on guide components (medium stroke cylinders and cylinders close to vertical
position)
Heavy side load on guide components (large cylinders, heavy components). Long stroke cylinders and cylinders are in
horizontal position
EnvironmentLow temperature fluctuationModerate temperature fluctuationHigh temperature fluctuation
Contamination Free or lowModerate (or cylinder in horizontal, down-stroke position)Harsh environment with high contamination (cylinder is in vertical, up-stroke position)
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