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Single-Acting vs Double-Acting Pneumatic Cylinders: What’s the Difference?
Oct
Pneumatic cylinders turn compressed air into straight-line movement. Two common types are single-acting and double-acting cylinders. The right choice depends on how the cylinder needs to move, the force required and the demands of the application.
What is a single-acting cylinder?
A single-acting cylinder uses compressed air to move the piston in one direction. The return movement is usually provided by an internal spring or an external force, such as the load being moved.
This can suit applications that need one powered stroke, such as clamping, ejecting or positioning. The design of the cylinder and its return method affect the force available, so the application still needs to be checked carefully.
What is a double-acting cylinder?
A double-acting cylinder uses compressed air alternately on either side of the piston to extend and retract the rod. This gives powered movement in both directions and can suit applications where the return stroke needs to be controlled.
Because the piston rod takes up space on one side of the piston, the force available can differ between extension and retraction. Both directions should be considered when sizing a cylinder.
Which type should you choose?
Before selecting a pneumatic cylinder, consider:
- Whether the cylinder needs powered movement in one or both directions
- The force required on each stroke
- The stroke length and operating speed
- Available space and mounting arrangement
- Whether position sensing or cushioning is needed
The valve, air supply and controls also need to suit the cylinder and the application. Checking these details together can help avoid problems with movement, force or fit.
PCM Engineering supplies pneumatic products, including cylinder ranges, and provides fast-track pneumatic cylinder assembly from its Belfast and Dunfermline branches. Contact the team if you need help identifying a suitable option for your application.
We are fully BCAS compliant – BCAS | The Voice of British Compressed Air
