A: Choosing the correct cylinder size is essential for optimal performance. First, determine the required push or pull force using the formula: Force = Pressure × Area. To ensure reliable operation, it’s recommended to select a cylinder with a force rating at least 50% higher than your calculated requirement.

Next, focus on the bore size, as it directly affects the cylinder’s force output. Based on your calculated force and the available system pressure, choose an appropriate bore size. Common options include 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, 63mm, 80mm, and 100mm.

Finally, determine the necessary stroke length, which is the distance the piston must travel. Measure the exact movement needed by your load to ensure accurate sizing. In summary: calculate the required force, select a matching bore size, and then specify the stroke length. If you need help, our technical team is ready to support you.

A single-acting cylinder is a pneumatic component that uses compressed air to move in only one direction (usually to extend). It retracts automatically using an internal spring or an external load when the air pressure is released. With only one air port, it is simpler, more cost-effective, and energy-efficient, making it ideal for one-way tasks like clamping, ejecting, and positioning.

A: Choose a Single-Acting Cylinder if you need simple, one-way operations, such as clamping, pushing, or ejecting. It saves energy, using about 50% less air, and has a lower system cost due to its simpler design with fewer components. The cylinder automatically returns via a spring when the air is cut off, which is great for safety and provides a default return position.

Choose a Double-Acting Cylinder if your application requires force in both directions. It provides powerful pushing and pulling capabilities, with precise control over both the extension and retraction strokes. This type of cylinder is ideal for longer strokes and more complex movements because it isn’t limited by an internal spring.

In short, for simple “push and release” tasks, go for a single-acting cylinder. For more powerful “push and pull” operations with precise control, choose a double-acting cylinder. Your decision depends on the specific requirements of your application.

A: One common issue in pneumatic cylinders is crawling or jerky motion, which is typically caused by low air pressure or a side load due to misalignment between the cylinder and the rod. To resolve this, increase the air pressure to the appropriate level and check the alignment of the cylinder and rod to ensure they are properly positioned.

Another frequent problem is weak force output, often resulting from either insufficient air pressure or an internal seal leak. Start by verifying that the system is operating at the correct pressure. If the force remains weak despite proper pressure, it likely indicates that the internal piston seal is worn and needs to be replaced.

Air leakage is also a common fault, usually caused by worn seals or loose fittings. Begin by inspecting and tightening all air connections. If the leak is coming from the rod or exhaust port, the issue is more serious—internal seals have likely deteriorated and must be replaced.

In summary, issues like crawling, weak force, and air leakage generally stem from low air pressure, misalignment, or damaged seals. Regular checks on air pressure, installation alignment, and seal integrity, along with timely maintenance or replacement, are essential for keeping pneumatic cylinders running smoothly.

A: Connecting them is straightforward. Here’s a simple guide: First, identify the ports—locate the air port(s) on your cylinder and the outlet port(s) on your solenoid valve. For a single-acting cylinder, which has one port, connect it to an outlet port on the valve. For a double-acting cylinder, which has two ports, port ‘A’ is typically for retraction, and port ‘B’ is for extension, so match these to the corresponding ‘A’ and ‘B’ outlet ports on the valve. Next, select the right fittings, such as push-to-connect fittings, that match the thread size of the cylinder/valve ports and the diameter of your air tube. Then, connect the tube by firmly pushing one end of the air tube into the valve’s outlet fitting and the other end into the cylinder’s fitting, ensuring a secure, leak-free connection. Finally, as a tip, always use an air source with a filter-regulator-lubricator (FRL) unit installed before the solenoid valve to ensure clean, properly pressurized air, which protects your components and extends their lifespan.