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ISO Standards & Compatibility
What's the difference between ISO and NFPA pneumatic cylinders?
ISO and NFPA cylinders deliver equivalent performance but use different dimensional standards. NFPA cylinders follow imperial measurements (National Fluid Power Association standards) used primarily in North America. ISO cylinders follow metric specifications (International Organization for Standardization) required for international markets and imported equipment.
These standards are not interchangeable. An ISO 15552 cylinder with a 50mm bore cannot be a direct replacement to an NFPA cylinder with a 2-inch bore, despite similar performance. Equipment designed for one standard requires matching components.
For OEMs exporting equipment, ISO compliance provides global market access. For maintenance teams with imported machinery, ISO cylinders eliminate extended overseas lead times for replacement parts.
Learn more about ISO cylinder advantages
Are ARTEC ISO cylinders interchangeable with other manufacturers' ISO cylinders?
Yes, for dimensional fit. ISO certification guarantees that an ARTEC ISO 6432 cylinder matches the mounting dimensions, port locations, and stroke specifications of any other ISO 6432 cylinder. You can replace a failing cylinder without redesigning equipment or modifying mounting.
However, internal component quality varies between manufacturers. ISO standards specify external dimensions and basic performance but allow variation in seal materials, piston construction, and cushioning components. These differences significantly impact service life.
ARTEC uses high-quality seals from established suppliers, aluminum pistons (not plastic compounds), and nickel-plated steel cushioning pins. ISO certification confirms dimensional compatibility. ARTEC manufacturing determines how long the cylinder performs reliably.
Compare ISO cylinder quality factors
What ISO standards do ARTEC cylinders meet?
ARTEC manufactures cylinders to three primary ISO standards:
- ISO 6432: Micro rod cylinders, 8-25mm bore (with 32-63mm available outside standard). Best for space-constrained applications requiring compact actuators.
- ISO 15552: Standard rod cylinders, 32-125mm bore. Available in single and double-acting. Most widely specified ISO cylinder for industrial automation. Accommodates magnetic sensors and high-temperature seals.
- ISO 21287: Compact rod cylinders, 20mm+ bore. Shorter body length than ISO 15552 while maintaining bore diameter options.
All ARTEC cylinders are manufactured to ISO 9001:2015 quality standards.
Download ARTEC cylinder brochure
Which ISO cylinder standard do I need for my application?
Bore size requirements typically determine the appropriate standard. Calculate required force, then select the smallest bore diameter that generates adequate force at your available pressure.
- ISO 6432: Choose for 8-25mm bore requirements. Ideal for electronics assembly, medical devices, small parts handling, and severely space-constrained applications.
- ISO 15552: Choose for 32-125mm bore with standard stroke lengths. Handles most packaging equipment, material handling, and general manufacturing. Offers high-temperature seals and magnetic sensor compatibility.
- ISO 21287: Choose for 20-32mm bore when shorter body length provides installation advantages over ISO 15552.
Stroke length, mounting configuration, and environmental factors refine the selection. Our technical team can evaluate your application parameters and recommend appropriate models.
Use our cylinder force calculator
Can I replace my European-sourced ISO cylinder with an ARTEC cylinder?
Yes. This is a primary use case for ARTEC cylinders in North America. Equipment imported from Europe uses metric ISO components, and replacement parts historically required overseas ordering with extended lead times.
ARTEC cylinders manufactured to the same ISO standards provide dimensionally identical replacements through Branham's North American distribution. An ISO 15552 cylinder with a 40mm bore and 100mm stroke from ARTEC mounts identically to the European cylinder it replaces.
Beyond avoiding international shipping delays, you gain access to technical support from engineers familiar with North American industrial applications, with prompt responses rather than time-zone-delayed exchanges.
Explore ARTEC cylinder options
Are ARTEC cylinders ISO 9001:2015 certified?
Yes. ARTEC holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, confirming compliance with internationally recognized quality management standards. The certification requires documented processes for design, manufacturing, testing, and continuous improvement, with regular third-party audits.
For purchasing teams, this certification provides assurance of consistent component quality across production runs. The standard mandates systematic quality controls, traceability, and corrective action protocols.
ARTEC has specialized in pneumatic cylinder design and manufacturing for industrial automation since 1982.
Learn about ARTEC quality standards
Product Specifications & Options
What bore sizes are available in ARTEC cylinders?
ARTEC cylinder bore sizes span 8mm through 125mm:
- ISO 6432: 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, 25mm (per standard). Also available: 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, 63mm (outside standard).
- ISO 15552: 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, 63mm, 80mm, 100mm, 125mm.
- ISO 21287: 20mm through 100mm.
Bore size selection depends on required force at your available air pressure. Larger bores generate greater force but consume more air and require additional mounting space.
What's the difference between ISO 6432, ISO 15552, and ISO 21287 cylinders?
The three standards define different size ranges optimized for distinct applications:
- ISO 6432 (8-25mm bore): Micro cylinders for severely space-constrained applications. Best for light-duty tasks like electronics assembly, medical devices, and precision positioning.
- ISO 15552 (32-125mm bore): Standard cylinders for industrial automation. Handles packaging, conveyors, material handling, and general manufacturing. Many models accommodate magnetic sensors and high-temperature seals.
- ISO 21287 (20mm+ bore): Compact design bridges micro and standard cylinders. Shorter body length than ISO 15552 while maintaining adequate bore diameter for moderate force applications.
All three ensure dimensional interchangeability between manufacturers but target different force, space, and environmental requirements.
Learn about ISO cylinder maintenance
Does ARTEC offer stainless steel cylinders?
Yes. ARTEC manufactures stainless steel cylinders across five specialized series for harsh and hygienic environments where aluminum housing is inadequate.
Stainless steel resists corrosion from chemicals, salt, humidity, and frequent washdown. The hard, non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth and contamination accumulation, meeting sanitation requirements in food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device production, and semiconductor fabrication.
The five series cover ISO 6432 through ISO 15552 configurations with custom stroke lengths. Each maintains dimensional standards of its ISO specification, ensuring stainless steel models mount identically to aluminum versions.
For food and beverage operations where FDA and USDA regulations mandate stainless steel contact surfaces, these cylinders provide compliant actuation. ARTEC offers FDA-approved seal materials and metal scrapers for food-grade operations.
Explore ARTEC stainless steel series
What configuration options are available for ARTEC cylinders?
- Actuation: Single-acting (air pressure one direction, spring or gravity return) or double-acting (air pressure both directions).
- Rod configuration: Single rod (standard), double rod (rod extends both ends), or hollow rod (allows routing cables/lines through center).
- Anti-rotation: External brackets, hexagonal rod profiles, or internal anti-rotation mechanisms prevent rotational drift.
- Cushioning: Pneumatic cushioning decelerates the piston before stroke-end impact. Adjustable for different loads and speeds.
- Port location: Side ports or rear ports for routing flexibility.
- Temperature seals: Standard, high-temperature, or low-temperature materials depending on the operating environment.
Configuration selection depends on loading conditions, environmental factors, and installation constraints. Our technical team can recommend appropriate options.
View ARTEC product configurations
Can ARTEC cylinders be used with magnetic sensors?
Yes. ARTEC ISO 15552 cylinders accommodate magnetic position sensors for non-contact piston position detection.
Magnetic sensors mount externally and detect a permanent magnet embedded in the piston. As the piston moves, the sensor provides an electrical signal confirming the cylinder has reached the specified position. This eliminates mechanical wear from limit switches and simplifies installation.
Position sensing is valuable in automated systems requiring stroke confirmation before proceeding to the next operation. Multiple sensors can mount along the cylinder body to detect intermediate positions.
Specify magnetic sensor compatibility when selecting cylinders to ensure the piston includes the magnet and body materials don't interfere with the magnetic field.
Learn about pneumatic automation
What seal options does ARTEC offer?
- Standard seals: Proven elastomers for typical industrial temperatures and general manufacturing.
- High-temperature seals: Extended range for applications near heat sources (ovens, dryers, heat treatment).
- Low-temperature seals: Remain pliable in cold storage, outdoor winter conditions, and refrigeration systems.
- FDA-approved seals: Food-grade materials for direct and indirect food contact. Required for food processing, beverage production, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
- Metal scrapers: Protect rod seals from abrasive particles, metal chips, or debris in harsh environments.
Seal selection depends on temperature extremes, chemical exposure, contamination levels, and regulatory requirements. Replacement seal kits are available for field service.
Application Suitability
Are ARTEC cylinders suitable for food processing applications?
Yes. ARTEC stainless steel cylinders with FDA-approved seals meet FDA and USDA requirements for food processing equipment.
Stainless steel provides the hard, non-porous surface required to resist bacterial growth and prevent contamination. The smooth surface allows thorough cleaning and withstands hot water, steam, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
FDA-approved seal materials ensure no harmful substances leach into food products during operation. These cylinders handle food handling, packaging, sorting, and processing equipment while tolerating frequent sanitation cycles.
Learn about food processing applications
Can ARTEC cylinders handle harsh environments?
Yes. ARTEC stainless steel cylinders are engineered for conditions that degrade standard aluminum cylinders:
- Corrosive environments: Resists acids, bases, salts, and process chemicals. Suitable for coastal installations and chemical processing.
- Temperature extremes: High-temperature and low-temperature seals maintain performance beyond standard ranges.
- Heavy washdown: Withstands high-pressure washdown with hot water, steam, and cleaning chemicals without surface degradation.
- Contaminated atmospheres: Metal scrapers remove abrasive particles and debris before they contact seals.
- Humid or wet conditions: Stainless steel resists rust in high-humidity or direct water exposure (car wash systems, outdoor installations).
Appropriate material and seal combinations enable reliable service in environments requiring frequent cylinder replacement with standard designs.
Review harsh environment solutions
What makes ARTEC stainless steel cylinders ideal for hygienic applications?
Stainless steel meets material and contamination control standards for pharmaceutical, medical device, and food processing applications.
The hard, non-porous surface lacks microscopic irregularities where bacteria or microorganisms establish colonies. Smooth geometry minimizes crevices where material accumulates. The material resists degradation from repeated hot water, steam, and aggressive cleaning protocols.
FDA-approved seals ensure no harmful substances migrate into products during compression cycles. Standard seal materials may release trace compounds unsuitable for food or pharmaceutical contact.
Regulatory compliance requires documented material traceability and validated cleaning procedures. Stainless steel construction with FDA-approved seals provides the foundation for meeting these requirements.
Learn about hygienic design standards
Can ARTEC cylinders withstand high temperatures?
Yes. ARTEC ISO 15552 cylinders are suitable for high-temperature applications, and specialized high-temperature seals extend operational limits above standard ranges.
Standard seals begin degrading with sustained elevated temperatures. Heat causes elastomers to harden, lose flexibility, and crack under pressure. High-temperature seals maintain flexibility and sealing effectiveness in applications near ovens, dryers, or heat treatment equipment.
Specific temperature limits depend on cylinder series, bore size, seal material, and exposure duration. For sustained high temperatures, consult technical support to ensure appropriate model and seal selection.
Specify expected temperature conditions when selecting cylinders to ensure appropriate seal materials and design features.
Review ISO cylinder maintenance
Are ARTEC cylinders suitable for export equipment or international markets?
Yes. ISO certification addresses global equipment market requirements where metric standards predominate.
North American OEMs using NFPA (imperial) components cannot sell into markets requiring ISO compliance without significant redesign. ARTEC ISO cylinders enable equipment designs meeting global standards, simplifying product lines and expanding addressable markets.
Dimensional interchangeability also benefits international service networks. Service centers stock replacement components knowing ISO-certified cylinders from any manufacturer provide proper fit. This supports global installations with local service capability.
For OEMs expanding beyond North American markets, ISO components remove barriers to international sales. For equipment buyers, ISO compliance ensures local parts availability rather than transatlantic shipping for replacements.
Learn about ISO compliance advantages
Maintenance & Serviceability
Can I maintain ARTEC cylinders on-site?
Yes. Field-replaceable seal kits enable on-site maintenance without returning cylinders for service or replacing entire units when seals wear.
ARTEC uses serviceable designs where seal replacement follows straightforward procedures. Maintenance technicians familiar with basic pneumatic systems can disassemble cylinders, replace worn seals from Branham seal kits, and return cylinders to service. This reduces downtime from days to hours.
On-site seal replacement matters for critical production equipment where extended downtime creates significant costs. Packaging lines, automated assembly, and material handling depend on cylinder actuation for normal operation.
Seal kits include rod seals, piston seals, and wear components matched to specific models. Standard, high-temperature, and FDA-approved materials are available. Maintaining seal kit inventory enables rapid response before complete failure.
Learn about on-site maintenance
Are replacement seal kits available for ARTEC cylinders?
Yes. Branham stocks seal kits for ARTEC rodded cylinders in standard, high-temperature, and FDA-approved configurations.
Seal replacement costs significantly less than cylinder replacement and extends equipment service life. When seals show performance degradation through minor leakage or reduced speed, seal kits restore original performance. Waiting until complete failure risks collateral damage to internal components.
- Standard seal kits: Proven elastomers for typical industrial environments.
- High-temperature seal kits: For elevated temperature applications.
- FDA-approved seal kits: Meet food-grade requirements for food processing equipment.
Kits include all wear components (rod seals, piston seals, wear rings) matched to specific ARTEC series and bore sizes. Maintaining inventory supports predictive maintenance, allowing scheduled replacement during planned shutdowns rather than emergency repairs.
Learn about maintenance best practices
How do I know when seals need replacement?
Several indicators signal seal degradation requiring replacement:
Air leakage: Slight audible leakage near rod seal or end caps. Increases as seal material degrades.
- Reduced stroke speed: Worn seals allow internal pressure bypass, reducing force and slowing stroke speed.
- Erratic movement: Inconsistent seal contact creates stuttering or jerking during stroke instead of smooth motion.
- Drift under load: Seal leakage allows pressure equalization, causing loads to drift in mid-stroke position.
- Visible seal damage: Cracks, tears, excessive wear grooves, or hardened material visible on external rod seals.
- Reduced force output: Internal leakage reduces effective pressure on piston, decreasing force capability.
Regular monitoring enables scheduled replacement during planned maintenance rather than emergency repairs. Seal replacement before complete failure prevents collateral damage to internal cylinder components.
Learn about predictive maintenance
What should I look for when evaluating ISO cylinder quality?
ISO certification guarantees dimensional interchangeability but allows variation in internal components that affect service life:
- Seal materials: Look for seals from established manufacturers. Lower-cost cylinders may use compounds that save pennies but cause premature leakage.
- Cap construction: End caps must remain securely fastened despite millions of pressure cycles and vibration. Quality cylinders use reinforced designs with ribbing around mounting holes.
- Piston material: Some manufacturers use plastic compound pistons to reduce cost. Aluminum pistons provide superior strength and dimensional stability.
- Cushioning pins: Nickel-plated steel pins provide maximum durability. Softer materials or lighter plating wear faster.
- Rod material and coating: Chrome-plated steel rods resist wear and corrosion. Surface finish quality impacts seal life.
Price differences between ISO cylinders often trace to these component choices. A cylinder costing 15% less but requiring replacement twice as frequently costs more over its lifecycle.
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Why should I choose ARTEC over other ISO cylinder brands?
- Manufacturing quality: ISO 9001:2015 certified processes with 30+ years of pneumatic cylinder specialization since 1982.
- Component selection: Established seal suppliers, aluminum pistons, nickel-plated steel cushioning pins, reinforced caps. Prioritizes longevity over lowest cost.
- Stainless steel options: Five specialized series covering ISO 6432 to ISO 15552 for corrosive, washdown, and food-grade applications.
- Seal variety: Standard, high-temperature, low-temperature, FDA-approved materials. Metal scraper options. Field-replaceable seal kits available.
- North American distribution: Responsive delivery through Branham eliminates overseas lead times (previously weeks to months).
- Technical support: Application assistance and troubleshooting from Branham engineers familiar with North American industrial applications, without time-zone delays.
Quality manufacturing, component selection, product variety, availability, and support make ARTEC the practical choice for reliable ISO pneumatic actuation.
Ordering & Support
How do I order an ARTEC product or get support?
Contact W.C. Branham to discuss your application requirements:
- Phone: 1-800-428-1974 (U.S./Canada) or 715-426-2000 (Local)
- Email: AskWCB@wcbranham.com
Website: www.wcbranham.com
