apr . 12, 2024 12:07 Back to list

Hydraulic Cylinder Options: Single Vs Double Acting

A single-acting hydraulic cylinder has only one port at the end of the cylinder.

Hydraulic fluid is moved into the cylinder through the port, and the hydraulic pressure created extends the piston rod forward in one direction, known as the linear force.

When the pressure is released, a spring or the weight of the load returns the piston to its original position.

The components of a single-acting cylinder include the cylinder body, a piston, a piston rod, and a port for the hydraulic fluid.

Single-acting cylinders are reliable and cost-effective, suitable for use in a variety of applications where space is limited.

Advantages Of Single-Acting Cylinders:

Cost-Effective: Single-acting cylinders are generally less expensive than double-acting cylinders, as they require fewer hydraulic components and less complex control systems.

The Simplicity of Design: Single-acting cylinders have a simpler design and are easier to install and maintain than more complex cylinders.

Single-Acting Hydraulic Cylinder Applications:

Lifting Equipment: Single-acting cylinders are commonly used in lifting equipment, such as scissor lifts and hydraulic jacks.

Dump Trucks: Single-acting cylinders are used in dump trucks to raise and lower the trailer bed.

Double-Acting Cylinders

A double-acting hydraulic cylinder has two ports, one at each end of the cylinder and uses hydraulic pressure to move the piston rod in two directions.

A linear force is created from hydraulic fluid being moved into one of the ports, pushing the piston in one direction. With double-acting cylinders, to reverse the force hydraulic fluid is moved into the opposite port pushing the piston back to its original position.

Double-acting cylinders allow for greater control over the movement of the load or workpiece as they use power instead of gravity to bring the cylinder back down.

Double-acting hydraulic cylinders are the most common type of hydraulic cylinder used in heavy-duty manufacturing industries.

Advantages Of Double-Acting Cylinders:

Controlled Movement in Both Directions: Double-acting cylinders exert force in both directions, which allows for more accurate control over the movement of the load or workpiece.

Versatility and Adaptability: Double-acting cylinders can be used in a wide range of applications, from heavy machinery to manufacturing equipment.

Double-Acting Hydraulic Cylinder Applications:

Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment:

Double-acting cylinders are commonly used when precise control over the movement of the load is needed such as in excavators, bulldozers and other heavy machinery, manufacturing equipment.