Air cylinders or pneumatic cylinders are used in many industrial automation applications for linear movement and clamping force. However, the performance of the pneumatic cylinder can be affected by the type of mounting used in the application, which is critical for maximizing cylinder life expectancy. The pneumatic cylinder mounting types that are available are air cylinders, and each of them has its own characteristics, advantages, and applications. In this article, we will discuss the various mounting types of pneumatic cylinders and how to select the appropriate one for your application.
What Are Pneumatic Cylinder Mounting Types? A Quick Overview
The pneumatic cylinder mounting types are the different methods through which a pneumatic cylinder can be fixed on a particular machine or on a particular surface to ensure that it can return to its original position. These mounting configurations are very important in the functioning of the piston rod and cylinder so that the cylinder can be able to handle the forces that are exerted on it during its operation.
Mounting types can be categorized into two primary groups: screw mountings (which immobilize the cylinder) and swivel mountings (which permit some degree of movement). Both styles are intended for various types of applications, including applications that require high load-carrying capacity, linear or rotary motion, with emphasis on thrust force. Also, there are applications like rodless cylinders, tandem cylinders, and telescopic cylinders that offer specific solutions for specific industrial applications depending on the length of the cylinder.
The choice of the mounting style is critical for the best cylinder performance and durability. If mounting is not done properly, it results in early failure, misalignment problems, and reduced service life of the pneumatic parts that affect the efficiency of the total system.
Fixed Centerline Mount: Features, Benefits, and Applications
A fixed centerline mount is one of the most common methods of mounting a pneumatic cylinder. It entails positioning the cylinder in a manner that it is perpendicular to the other component, and this is done by placing it in the middle of the cable cylinders. This arrangement enables the cylinder to be fixed while the piston rod travels in a straight line, which is suitable for accurate and deliberate operations.
Advantages of Fixed Centerline Mounts
The advantages of this mounting type include high load-carrying capacity and compatibility with tie rod cylinders. Since the cylinder shaft is firmly secured, force is applied uniformly in one direction, ensuring that the load travels in a precise, linear path, and there is little chance of misalignment. The mount allows for linear guides, which minimize side forces and increase the cylinder’s useful life. This stability makes it suitable for use in applications where the performance is expected to be constant and predictable.
Uses of Fixed Centerline Mounts
Fixed centerline mounts are often applied inindustrial automation where pneumatic actuators operated by compressed air transport components in assembly lines. These mounts are also important in applications where linear motion is needed in machinery such as in linear motors. In extreme conditions, the application of stainless steel improves the robustness of the mounts to ensure they work effectively in such conditions.
Exploring Fixed Offset Mounting for Pneumatic Cylinders
Fixed offset mounting is slightly different from the centerline mount in that the pneumatic cylinder is mounted off center. This configuration is especially beneficial in cases where side forces are involved or where the layout of the system requires a different design. Offset mounting provides flexibility in difficult conditions by changing the position of the cylinder.
Advantages of fixed offset mounting
Another benefit of fixed offset mounting is that it can better manage side loads. In the presence of side loads, this type of mounting is beneficial in that it reduces the amount of stress placed on the piston rod. However, the alignment of the components is important to ensure that they are not misaligned during installation since this will affect the performance of the system. These problems are usually advised to be solved by using linear guides or alignment accessories to reduce them and allow the system to run smoothly.
Common Applications
Fixed offset mounting is commonly used in machine tools and situations where the pneumatic cylinder is to be fitted in a restricted area. This mounting type is particularly useful where the mounting surface is not parallel to the cylinder’s stroke. Also, it can accommodate a range of mounting bolts and bracket arrangements, making it easy to install in complex equipment systems.
Factors to be taken into account
Although fixed offset mounts have their benefits in certain applications, one has to be careful about the alignment problem. However, if more alignment tools like linear guides are added, the operators can avoid the chances of poor performance and guarantee durability. This makes fixed offset mounting a versatile and feasible option for specific use.
Pivot Mounting: Key Advantages and Best Use Cases
Pivot mounting is another type of mounting that enables the pneumatic cylinders to turn or pivot on a clevis pin or trunnion. This flexibility makes it suitable for use in applications where the cylinder needs to move along a curved path or where rotary motion is required in addition to straight line movement.
Major Benefits of Pivot Mounting
Another advantage of pivot mounting is the ability to adjust to the loads and directions during the operation. This type of mounting also reduces stress on the piston rod and improves the cylinder’s performance because it is allowed to rotate. It is particularly useful in applications where magnetic coupling is used because the pivot motion allows for multi-plane motion without damaging the cylinder or other parts.
Best Use Cases
Pivot mounts are used in equipment that needs a large degree of movement, such as packaging equipment and conveyors, including rack and pinion. This mounting style is especially advantageous for pneumatic actuators that provide motion in various axes. Pivot mounts are also used in double and single rod configurations where the cylinder is required to push and pull from both ends. Furthermore, pivot mounting is suitable for telescopic cylinders, which is beneficial in equipment with limited space or applications with compact designs.
Conclusion
In general, pivot mounting offers greater versatility, sturdiness, and productivity than conventional mounting techniques, which makes it suitable for various industries that require linear and rotary motion.
How to Choose the Right Mounting Type for Your Pneumatic Cylinder
Selecting the right mounting type for your pneumatic cylinder is crucial to achieving the best results and to prolong the life of your system. Since there are many choices, it is crucial to know the characteristics of your application, including load type, motion, available space, and environment. In this guide, we will look at how these factors affect the choice of mounting types for pneumatic cylinders.
The choice of mounting type for the pneumatic cylinder is determined by the type of load, the required motion, available space, and the environment. In cases where the centerline of the application is subjected to heavy loads, the fixed centerline mount is preferred because of its secure and direct connection that guarantees it can withstand high forces. However, for the loads that are lighter and may have side forces, fixed offset or pivot mounts may be more suitable since they spread the forces evenly and do not cause wear on the piston rod. If your equipment is to move in a strictly linear fashion, then the centerline mount would be the best option. However, for cases where the cylinder is to rotate or when the path of the cylinder is curved, a pivot mount is the most suitable. Also, the availability of space can be a major factor in the decision making process as well. In some applications where conventional arrangements cannot be used, rodless pneumatic cylinders or compact arrangements may need offset or pivot mounting to be properly installed and operated. Finally, if the cylinder is to be used in a corrosive or severe environment, it is advisable to use a stainless steel mounting to avoid corrosion and greatly enhance the cylinder’s lifespan. Considering these factors and consulting with the manufacturer of the cylinder while following NFPA or ISO guidelines will help you determine the best mounting option for your application.
It is therefore important to consider the load requirement, motion needed, space available and the environment in which the pneumatic cylinder will be used in order to determine the most appropriate mounting type. Consulting with the cylinder’s manufacturer and following the guidelines of NFPA or ISO will also help to increase the reliability and efficiency of your system. When properly mounted, your pneumatic cylinder will provide you with the best performance for as long as you desire.
Common Challenges with Pneumatic Cylinder Mounting and How to Solve Them
Despite the numerous advantages of using different pneumatic cylinder mounting types, there are several challenges that operators may face during installation and operation:
- Misalignment: The most frequent problem is the improper positioning of the pneumatic cylinder and the load it is required to transport. This may lead to wearing out of the piston rod or even complete failure of the cylinder. To this end, linear guides or clevis attachments should be used to reduce side forces.
- Excessive Side Loads: Although some mounting styles are better suited for side loads, excessive pressure on the cylinder can cause performance problems. To avoid this, ensure that the load is well distributed and check the mounting bolts and flanges for signs of wear.
- Space Limitations: Most installations face space issues, which results in wrong mounting decisions. In such cases, compact designs or telescopic cylinders can be used to save space without compromising on the performance.
If these challenges are well understood and the mounting configuration well planned, then both cylinder performance and service life can be improved.
Pneumatic Cylinder Mounting Standards: NFPA and ISO Explained
It is important to pay attention to the standards of the industry when choosing the types of mounting for pneumatic cylinders. The two most common standards used in pneumatic cylinder mountings are NFPA and ISO standards.
The NFPA standards are mainly applicable to tie rod cylinders in the United States. These standards define the dimensions, mounting positions and performance characteristics of cylinders to allow for interchangeability of components across manufacturers. On the other hand, ISO standards offer international specifications on pneumatic cylinders, including the different mounting types, concerning the stroke length, the diameter of the piston, and the mounting types. By following the ISO standards, you will be assured that your pneumatic cylinder will fit most equipment globally, which is suitable for multinational companies.
NFPA and ISO standards are intended to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency of pneumatic cylinder applications. Thus, it is necessary to ensure that the selected mounting meets these standards, especially in critical industrial applications, such as machine tools or industrial automation.
Hebai-Omch Cylinder Mounting Options for Automation Systems
In selecting pneumatic cylinders, it is important to know the various mounting types that can be used in automation systems. Standard cylinders usually have options for mounting such as Centerline Mounting, Fixed Offset Mounting or Pivot Mounting, which offer support and versatility in many applications. Mini cylinders, because of their small size, are usually supported by brackets or clevis mounts while rodless cylinders, because of their peculiar rodless structure, require carriage or guide mounts to provide linear motion in restricted areas.
Hebai-Omch provides different pneumatic cylinders depending on the application required. The knowledge of the cylinder design to fit perfectly on the mounting system makes it easy to integrate into the existing systems without affecting the performance or durability of the cylinder. Whether it is a space constraint issue or a high performance operational need, Hebai-Omch has a vast catalogue of cylinders and mounting solutions that can be adapted to your specific automation needs.
