When it comes to achieving precise and reliable straight-line motion across countless industries, the pneumatic cylinder comes in handy. It is energy efficient and uses compressed air to create a linear motion which is absolutely vital for most industries that depend on lifting, pushing, and even pressing.

Let’s dive deeper to know how this pneumatic cylinder works to provide straight-line motion. After reading this article, you’ll also be able to choose the right pneumatic cylinder according to your needs and preferences. So, stay tuned with us!

 

1) Pneumatic Cylinder: Providing straight-line motion

Pneumatic Cylinders or Air cylinders are simple devices that make use of compressed air to create linear motion. They function like a push-and-pull device that is actuated by compressed air. Such motion is useful when you go about opening and closing doors, shifting items or even rotating robotic arms on the wearable belt’s machine.

Pneumatic cylinders are available in different configurations and variants but their main job like creating straight-line motion remains sane. They work quietly, are economically cheaper and easy to use too as compared to electric or hydraulic cylinders.

2) How do pneumatic cylinders work?

As pneumatic cylinders are essential components of various industries, so it’s very important to understand their working mechanism. So, the following discussion outlines how a pneumatic cylinder operates:

Step 1) Supplying of Compressed Air

• First of all, air is supplied using air compressors and is sent through tubing and valves into the cylinder.

Step 2) Air Flowing Into the Cylinder

• Compressed air starts flowing into one of the two ends of the cylinder. This is able to generate force as the pressure inside the cylinder continues to escalate.

Step 3) The Movement of the Piston

• Inside the cylinder, there is a movable component known as a pneumatic piston, and the air pressure is able to transfer movement to it. This component generates forward straight-line movement.

Step 4) The Release of Air

• In a single-acting cylinder, air is expelled resulting in a spring being able to return the piston back in place.  For double-acting cylinders, compressed air flows to the opposite side, pushing the piston back to its starting position.

• Finally, the piston rod transfers the straight-line motion enabling the tool or machinery to function.

3) Types of Pneumatic Cylinders

A pneumatic cylinder is broadly used in industries, with different types and each makes it ideal for distinct jobs. So, let us review their air cylinder types to help you pick the one that blends well with your objectives.

i) Single-Acting Cylinders

This type of pneumatic cylinder uses air pressure to shift the piston or shaft outwards in a single direction. They utilize springs to return the piston shaft to its initial position.

? Ideal use: This type of cylinder is ideal for lifting or pushing since it generates an effortless one-way motion while also consuming less air.

? Interesting Fact: Keep in mind that this type of cylinder is only suited for tasks with a maximum stroke length of between 10 and 200 mm and a minimum load.

ii) Double-Acting Cylinders

As the very name suggests, these types of pneumatic cylinders utilize air pressure to shift the piston shaft in both directions. For instance;  It has two airports. One side is powered with air while the other side is able to exhaust to let the piston return.

? Ideal use: These are ideal for tasks requiring continuous alternate motion especially opening & shutting doors or pressing parts together. The only setback with this type of cylinder is the reliance on springs.

? Interesting Fact: Unlike single-acting pneumatic cylinders, these can easily be used for larger stroke lengths and heavier loads of up to 2000mm.

iii) Telescopic Cylinders

Telescopic cylinders are ideal when there is minimal space available yet a decent stroke is to be reached.

? Idea use: You will frequently find these in lifting devices such as cranes or dump trucks.

? Interesting Fact: These types of cylinders comprise several overlapping stages which can be extended to allow strokes of over 4000mm.

iv) Rodless Cylinders

Rodless cylinders are more compact and do not have a piston rod sticking out, as the load is attached to the piston that moves within the rod, which is joined to a carriage.

? Idea use: This type will suit you best if there is insufficient space at your workplace but you require long strokes (up to 6000 mm).

4) Applications of pneumatic cylinders

The use of pneumatic cylinders is prevalent in various sectors due to their accuracy, reliability and speed. Let’s have a look at the main sectors in which they are used to provide straight-line motion!

+ Packaging and Material Handling: Pneumatic cylinders are used in packaging lines that assist with labelling, carton sealing or sorting, as well as transporting items on conveyor belts. These components can conduct big bulk materials or boxes with a stroke length of 2000mm.

+ Robots and Other Automated Systems: Robotic systems incorporate them to produce aerodynamic motions for arms, tools and grippers. They boost the productivity of electronics and pharmaceuticals for example by increasing the speed at which items are picked up.

+ Transportation and Vehicles: Heavy-duty vehicles rely immensely on pneumatic cylinders as they serve as brake systems and suspension controls. This is because they can produce up to 20,000 Newtons of force even at high velocity, guaranteeing their reliability.

+ Beverage and Food industry: These parts are crucial in guaranteeing a clean working environment by preventing oil leakage and/or ensuring food safety compliance. For instance, pneumatic cylinders can automate bottling, capping and filling processes while ensuring stringent sanitation requirements are satisfied.

+ Construction Equipments: Pneumatic cylinders are essential for powering automated equipment such as drills, hammers, and lifters used in construction.

+ Medical equipment: Pneumatic cylinders are also present in equipment such as patient beds, ventilators, and dental chairs. These devices operate noiselessly and give a sweet feel to the patients through their movements.

5) How to Choose the Right Pneumatic Cylinder

Picking the right pneumatic cylinder helps in enhancing the function, durability and smooth operation of the system. Thus, all this will be possible if you consider the following factors!

i) Determining the motion needed: Firstly, you have to ask yourself which type of motion is required for the system to function. Pneumatic cylinders offer linear and rotary motion in a single unit.

ii) Determining the Force needed: Next, you have to estimate the force needed for a particular operation which can be determined through the equation, such as

Force = Pressure × Area

So, first check the pressure which the air compressors are providing like 6 bar or 87 psi. Now, based on this force, we need to determine the bore size of the cylinder.

iii) Deciding on the required Stroke length: The stroke of a pneumatic cylinder refers to the distance the piston travels within the cylinder from its starting position (retracted) to its fully extended position.

• In the case of short-range strokes, which are generally used for clamping, a range of 100 mm suffices.

• Conversely, considering a conveyor system for longer distances of more than 2000mm is acceptable.

iv) Consider Space Limitations: Go through the amount of installation space available. If space is limited, then look for rodless cylinders that economize space. Telescopic cylinders are also good for installations that are tight but require longer strokes.

v) Assess environmental Influences: Climate conditions play a role in cylinder choice. In dusty conditions or wet environments, opt for a cylinder that has seal protection. In case of temperature extremes within a range of -20°C to 150°C, check on the materials of construction of the cylinder. Stainless steel or aluminium is preferable.

vi) Decide on Mounting Type: The mounting type determines how the cylinder is fixed on the machine. Some of the more popular choices include:

• Flange mounting which allows the easy fixing of the device.

• Pivot mounting which allows a greater range of device movement. Ensure your selected type of mounting is in line with your requirements.