A pneumatic cylinder is a standardized device that transforms compressed air energy into a linear reciprocating motion. Compressed air is used to propel a piston in and out in a double-acting cylinder, while a single-acting cylinder employs compressed air for one-way movement and a return spring for the other. They have a variety of attachments, such as sensors to detect the piston's position and various mounting accessories to mount the cylinder or add components to the piston's end. Pneumatic cylinders are used in various sectors that need linear motion because they are easy to operate and cost-effective. Air cylinders are another name for them.

Double-acting pneumatic cylinder

The most popular variety is a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, which gives the operator entire control over the piston movement. The piston and piston rod move when compressed air enters the cap-end and rod-end ports. The piston rod is in a negative position when retracted, which is in a positive position when extended. The piston is pushed forward (positively) when compressed air enters the cap-end port, lengthening the piston rod. The rod-end port is pushed open, allowing air to escape. Compressed air enters the rod-end port to retract the piston rod, pushing air out of the cap-end port and causing the piston to retract to the negative position.

Double-acting pneumatic cylinders provide the operator complete control over the piston stroke length and maintain a steady output force throughout the stroke. They can also cycle at a faster pace than humans. However, a double-acting cylinder should not be employed if the application needs a base position during fail-safe situations in compressed air loss. In addition, they utilize more energy since they use compressed air in both directions.

Single-acting pneumatic cylinder

The piston of a single-acting pneumatic cylinder is only driven in one direction by compressed air. The piston is shifted in the opposite route by a mechanical spring. The piston is either extended or retracted by the spring. Single-acting cylinders are often employed in fail-safe applications where the piston must remain in a certain position in the event of compressed air loss. Single-acting pneumatic cylinders have a "base" position as a result.

Because of the opposing spring force, single-acting pneumatic cylinders do not deliver a steady output force over the complete piston stroke length. Furthermore, the stroke of single-acting cylinders is restricted due to the compressed spring's space. As a result, single-acting cylinders have a larger construction length than the actual stroke length.

Final Thoughts

Univer pneumatic cylinders are often designed to ISO standards, making them interchangeable with goods from various manufacturers. As a result, mounting dimensions, cylinder diameter, stroke, piston rod properties, and airports are all affected by the type/standard and application. There are, however, a plethora of non-standard cylinders available for specific needs.