Do you need to lift heavy loads weighing up to 100 Tonnes? Hydraulic Lifting Cylinders work on the basis of fluid pressure, with pressure being exerted throughout to perform the lift. They can help with improving lifting processes and provide a good alternative to manual lifting on site and in various demanding commercial environments. If you don’t already use hydraulic lifting cylinders, find out more about how they work and how they could benefit you.
How do hydraulic lifting cylinders work and how can they be used to help you?
Hydraulic lifting cylinders are generally used where push and pull forces are needed. They can take a great deal of pressure, with a maximum operating pressure of 700 bar for some of the top brands of cylinder. In terms of situations where they might be used, some commonplace applications and industries include construction, manufacture and off shore. Some factories and construction environments will make use of multiple hydraulic lifting cylinders all at once.
Different types of lifting cylinders and their general specifications
There are many different types of lifting cylinders available and they can all be used for different purposes. These are some of the most common types you might find, and that will be available for you to purchase from a lifting equipment supplier:
- Low profile pad cylinders. Where there isn’t a great deal of clearance for lifting cylinders, low profile pad cylinders can be used. They are still very strong and can still have a maximum pressure of 700 bar, but they are that little bit more versatile. They can have up to a 150 tonne capacity with a single acting spring return.
- Single acting hydraulic cylinders. With up to a 150mm stroke, these cylinders can accommodate enormous pressures. With the addition of a pump, it is possible to use 30% more oil capacity.
- Universal hydraulic cylinders. Suitable for universal operations, these cylinders are compact and versatile. They are made from chromium-molybdenum steel and come with all couplers and everything else needed for use.
- Hollow cylinders. These come hollow, meaning a rod can be put through for the enabling of pulling forces. Ideal for heavy duty pulling requirements, 700 bar can be achieved as standard.
Buying hydraulic lifting cylinders – making sure they are ready for use
As you will see, there are many types of hydraulic lifting cylinders and even if they might seem very similar, each one will have its own subtle nuances, making it more or less suitable for various applications. Some people who work in offshore environment or construction environments may be responsible for ordering without actually being active in an on site role. This can make it difficult to place an order for the correct cylinders, when it might not be immediately obvious what those differences are. Gather together all specs before placing any orders and check over the details with the supplier to get confirmation, before you go ahead and place the order with them.