What is the Difference Between a Single & Double Acting Cylinders?
And How Do I Know Which Cylinder Is Right For My Project?
When it comes to knowing the difference between hydraulic cylinders, there are a few things to consider. Depending on the equipment and what it’s used for, it’s good to assess the options. Either a single-acting cylinder or a double-acting cylinder, the two function very differently and should be used for different things. But what is the actual difference between the two, and how do you know which one is right for your machinery and equipment?
Single Acting Hydraulic Cylinders:
A single-acting hydraulic is a simple and affordable option. It’s unique because the fluid within the mechanism only applies pressure to one side of the piston. That pressure forces the cylinder shaft to extend, creating that movement in one direction. The hydraulic oil within the cylinder is preventing the cylinder from compressing. Depending on the single-acting cylinder, the oil will either be forwarded into a separate reservoir or the other option is that using a small device, the oil will flow back automatically. This simple process is extremely effective when it comes to equipment and various devices, and is used by people around the world to simplify tasks that otherwise might be extremely challenging. In short, a single-acting cylinder only functions through pressure to one side, then retracts by another outside source, such as the weight of the load, or commonly a spring.
When Is The Single Acting Cylinder Used?
- Most car & diesel engines
- Pushing or pulling an object into place
- Clamping onto an object to hold it in place
- Expelling parts from molds or conveyor belts
Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinders:
A double-acting cylinder functions a little bit differently from a single-acting cylinder. In this type of hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic fluid is used to apply pressure onto both sides of the piston, permitting both extension and compression with no help from any sort of spring, crank, or device. The double-acting cylinder is not utilized in as many situations, but only when extreme force is needed in both extension and retraction of a device.
When Is The Double Acting Cylinder Used?
- Steam Engines
- Dump Trailer’s
- Manufacturing
- Robotics
- Hydraulic Presses
- Material Handling
Now, when it comes to understanding which cylinder is correct when it comes to your piece of equipment, engine, or application, it’s important to understand what situations call for which cylinders! Single-acting cylinders are simpler in design and are more compact, making them versatile for many different situations. Although simple and versatile, the single acting cylinder also has some disadvantages when it comes to size and its force ability because it can only really provide a large amount of force in one direction. Whereas a double-acting cylinder, although it is larger and isn’t as compact, will provide a sort of power and force that is unmatched by the single-acting cylinder.
Things To Consider
- Force and speed requirements
- Determine what kind of speed and force is needed for the cylinder and the job it’s doing.
- Stroke length
- The distance the piston rod
- Duty cycle
- The frequency and duration the cylinder will be used is important to take note of.
- Enviornmental
- The elements like temperature, dirt, and debris can affect performance.
This is just a brief overview of how single and double-acting cylinders differ, as well as the various applications that you might use them for. If you are unsure about which cylinder will serve best for your project, please Contact Us here at All Phase Hydraulics. We would be happy to help you find which cylinder will be best for you.