What is a Hydraulic Cylinder?

The hydraulic cylinder is an actuator in the hydraulic system. It converts hydraulic energy into mechanical energy to achieve linear reciprocating motion or swinging motion. The following is a detailed introduction of its components:
(1) Cylinder barrel: It is the main part of the hydraulic cylinder, usually made of high-strength seamless steel pipes. The inner surface is precisely processed to ensure the fitting accuracy between the piston and the cylinder barrel, reducing leakage and friction.
(2) Piston: It forms a seal with the inner wall of the cylinder barrel through the piston seal ring, dividing the hydraulic cylinder into two chambers. A wear-resistant ring is usually installed on the piston to improve its wear resistance and guiding performance.
(3)Piston rod: One end is connected to the piston, and the other end extends out of the cylinder barrel, used to connect the external load. The surface of the piston rod is chromed, which has good wear resistance, corrosion resistance and smoothness to ensure its reliability during reciprocating motion.
(4)Sealing device: It includes piston seals, piston rod seals, end cover seals, etc., which are used to prevent hydraulic oil leakage and ensure the working efficiency and performance of the cylinder. Common sealing materials include rubber, polyurethane, etc.
(5)Guiding device: It is used to guide the movement of the piston rod inside the cylinder barrel to ensure its straightness and stability. The guiding device is usually composed of guide sleeves, guide rings, etc.
(6)Buffer device: At the end of the cylinder stroke, in order to prevent the piston from colliding violently with the end of the cylinder barrel, a buffer device is installed. It changes the flow state of the hydraulic oil, causing the piston to gradually decelerate when approaching the end of the stroke, thus playing a buffering role.
(7)Exhaust device: Before the hydraulic cylinder operates, the air inside the cylinder needs to be removed to avoid problems such as vibration, noise and crawling caused by the entry of air into the hydraulic system. The exhaust device is generally installed at the highest point of the cylinder, usually in the form of an exhaust valve or exhaust plug.