Single-acting and double-acting hydraulic cylinders are two common types of hydraulic actuators used in various industrial applications.
The main difference between these two types of cylinders is the number of ports that are used for hydraulic fluid entry and exit.
A single-acting hydraulic cylinder has only one port, usually located at one end of the cylinder. Hydraulic fluid is introduced into the cylinder through this port, which pushes the piston forward, creating a linear force in one direction.
When pressure is released, the weight of the load or a spring returns the piston to its original position.
Single-acting hydraulic cylinders are commonly used in applications where the return force is provided by the load being lifted, such as dump trucks and hydraulic presses.
On the other hand, a double-acting hydraulic cylinder has two ports, one at each end of the cylinder. Hydraulic fluid is introduced into one of the ports, which pushes the piston in one direction, creating a linear force.
When the direction of the force needs to be reversed, hydraulic fluid is introduced into the port at the opposite end of the cylinder, which pushes the piston in the opposite direction, creating a new linear force.
Double-acting hydraulic cylinders are commonly used in applications where precise control over the force and direction of the load is needed, such as in excavators, cranes, and construction equipment.
We stock a wide range of double acting hydraulic cylinders on our website. If you need a single acting hydraulic cylinder we can supply breathers with our standard cylinders to make them single acting.
Check out our standard cylinder range here – RAMKO CYLINDER RANGE
Please get in touch with our team if you have any questions at all about our cylinders.
