TOLL-FREE: (800)-444-0311
TOLL-FREE: (800)-444-0311
Pneumatic cylinders are mechanical devices that utilize compressed gas as a power source to initiate a force in a reciprocating linear motion. Similar to hydraulic cylinders, a piston responds to a force to move in a specific direction. These systems are often preferred due to their cleaner and quieter operation. Some of the real-world applications of pneumatic cylinders include:
Though there are many pneumatic cylinders available, these machines generally fit into one of three categories: single-acting, double-acting, or multi-stage, telescoping cylinders. Single-acting cylinders, also referred to as SAC’s, use air pressure to drive a rod in one direction (usually out) and then a spring pulls the rod back into the starting position. Because the compressed air takes up a lot of room, SAC’s often have limited extension. In addition to limited extension, the spring in single-acting cylinders also robs the overall force created by the air pressure. Thus creating disadvantaged to SAC’s over other types of cylinders. Double-acting cylinders (DAC’s) use air pressure to both extend and retract the strokes of the rods. Unlike single-acting cylinders, DAC’s are not limited in length. But with longer lengths, comes the vulnerability of piston rods buckling and/or bending. Lastly, telescoping, or telescopic, cylinders can be either single or double-acting. The cylinders in these machines are made of a series of hollow pieces that increase in diameter. While this design allows for a longer stroke, there is an increased chance for the piston to become warped. Because of this weakness, telescopic cylinders are primarily used in applications with little to no side loading. Although these are the most commonly pneumatic cylinders, they certainly are not the only types of pneumatics produced. Other common types of pneumatic cylinders include, but are not limited to: rod-less air cylinders, impact air cylinders, cushion end air cylinders, tandem air cylinders, and rotary air cylinders.
The materials necessary to manufacture a pneumatic cylinder may range from aluminum to nickel plated brass, or even steel. Such factors as temperature, humidity, level of loads, and stroke lengths, may be considered when choosing a manufacturing material. Because of its high strength-to-weight ratio, availability, low cost, and machinability, aluminum has become a prime choice in pneumatic cylinder manufacture.
A very common aluminum product used in the manufacture of pneumatic cylinders is manifold quality 6061 aluminum bar stock. Manifold quality aluminum bar stock offers significant hardness and mechanical strength improvements over standard commercial aluminum extrusions. Manifold quality bar material is also produce to half commercial, plus-side only tolerances and is able to undergo complex machining processes with high metal removal rates. Machining performance is also improved with manifold quality bar products in the way of reduced burr formation and smaller chip sizes, which improves machining throughput. All of these characteristics are reasons manifold quality 6061-T6511 aluminum extrusions are a great material choice in the manufacture of pneumatic cylinders.
At Howard Precision Metals, we stock and extensive, 100% aluminum inventory, which includes a vast selection of manifold quality extrusions. Let Howard Precision Metals saw your material right to size. With more saws under one roof than anyone else in the Midwest, we have the capacity to tackle even the largest of sawing orders. Our high speed, custom-built, precision aluminum saws are operated by the most skilled and dedicated team in the industry. Together, they can offer tolerances as tight as ±.005” and accomplish finishes that can rival the quality of machined finishes. For your next aluminum requirement, let Howard Precision Metals fulfill your needs. Call us today at 800.444.0311 or request a quote.
