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Model Selection & Configuration
What DURATRK models are available?
The DURATRK line includes five models designed for different space and load requirements:
- DTS (Standard): Industry-standard overall length with integrated piston/yoke assembly. Best for general-purpose applications where space allows standard dimensions.
- DTK (Short): Shortened version offering up to 42% space savings for the same stroke compared to DTS (varies by bore size). Best for severely space-constrained designs.
- DTF (Guided): DTS or DTK with single external guide for higher moment and force ratings. Best when moment loads exceed basic DTS/DTK capacity.
- DTFD (Dual Guided): DTS platform with dual external guides, providing 60% more performance than DTF. Best for heavy loads and high moment requirements.
- DTFL (Linear Guided): Integrated precision linear rail and recirculating ball bearing system for highest load capacity. Best for extreme loads with offset positioning.
All models available in bore sizes: 18mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm.
Learn about DURATRK advantages
How do I choose between DTS and DTK models?
The decision depends on your space constraints. Both models offer identical stroke lengths, but DTK achieves this with a shorter piston/yoke assembly.
Choose DTS when:
- You need compatibility with other brands' standard dimensions (DTS has identical length at 0-stroke "A" dimension as most other brands)
- Application requires V-grooves and T/C-slots for mounting external accessories
- Space is available for standard-length cylinders
Choose DTK when:
- Space is severely limited and, length-wise, every inch matters
- You need the same stroke in up to 42% less overall length
- Machine footprint reduction is a design priority
- You're replacing rod cylinders and have limited envelope space
The space savings varies by bore size. Larger bores see more dramatic length reduction with DTK.
View dimensional specifications
When should I add external guides to my rodless cylinder?
External guiding becomes necessary when moment load requirements exceed the capacity of standard DTS/DTK models.
Performance improvements with guides:
- DTF (single guide): Significantly higher moment and force ratings across all axes compared to DTS/DTK
- DTFD (dual guide): 60% performance increase over DTF for heavy-duty applications
- DTFL (linear rail): Highest ratings in the DURATRK line, ideal for extreme loads with offset positioning
An added benefit: the piston/yoke and sealing slot can be rotated on guided models for added protection when the operating environment would otherwise expose the seal to contaminants.
What bore size do I need for my application?
Bore selection depends on required force at your operating pressure. DURATRK operates within 29-110 PSI. All loads and moments acting on the cylinder must fall within specified limits simultaneously.
Use our cylinder force calculator
Are DURATRK cylinders interchangeable with other brands?
Yes. DURATRK cylinders are fully interchangeable with other brands at similar cost.
The DTS model specifically has identical length at 0-stroke "A" dimension as most other brands. Check dimensional drawings to verify mounting interface compatibility for your specific application.
Beyond dimensional compatibility, DURATRK offers advantages in band seal design, extrusion strength, and contamination resistance compared to competitors.
What configuration options are available for DURATRK cylinders?
Bore sizes: 18mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm
Stroke lengths: Multiple standard stroke lengths available, with custom lengths possible. Maximum stroke varies by model:
- DTS/DTK/DTF/DTFD: Extended strokes available (consult product specifications)
- DTFL/DTKFL: Maximum stroke 118 inches (3000mm)
Porting options:
- NPT or BSPP threads (vary by bore size)
- Single-end or double-end porting
- Bottom porting (NOT available for 18mm bore)
- Side porting options (front or rear)
Sensor options:
- Reed switch (SR50R)
- PNP solid state (SR50P)
- NPN solid state (SR50N)
- All normally open configuration with quick disconnect wiring
Mounting options:
- Foot mount kits available for 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm bores
- Each kit includes 2 mounting brackets and 8 screws
- V-grooves and T/C-slots on DTS models for external accessories
Guiding options:
- Standard (DTS/DTK): No external guides
- Single guide (DTF/DTKF): Adds significant load capacity
- Dual guide (DTFD): 60% more performance than DTF
- Integrated linear rail (DTFL/DTKFL): Highest capacity, stroke limited to 118 inches
Performance & Operating Conditions
What operating conditions do DURATRK cylinders support?
- Pressure Range: 29 PSI to 110 PSI
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to +176°F (-20°C to +80°C)
- Media: Compressed and filtered air, dry or lubricated
- Maximum Speed: 2.0 m/sec
These specifications cover most industrial automation applications in material handling, packaging, manufacturing, and assembly operations.
View technical specifications by model
How much space do rodless cylinders save compared to traditional rod cylinders?
Rodless cylinders eliminate the need for rod extension space. The stroke happens along the cylinder body rather than extending a rod outward.
DURATRK's overall length formula is: L = 2×A + Stroke, where "A" is a fixed dimension based on model and bore size.
The DTK model provides the most compact option, with an "A" dimension reduced by up to 42% compared to DTS, depending on bore size. This allows the same stroke in significantly less space - critical when machine footprint or envelope limitations constrain your design.
Can DURATRK cylinders replace traditional piston-rod cylinders?
Yes, particularly the DTK short model. The DTK's reduced basic length "may even be used to replace piston-rod type cylinders because of its short basic length," according to product specifications.
Rodless cylinders offer advantages beyond space savings:
- Self-guided operation in many applications (no external linear guides required)
- Higher moment load capacity than comparable rod cylinders
- Longer stroke options without proportional length increase
- Elimination of rod bending concerns
Verify your application requirements against DURATRK dimensional drawings and load capacity tables to confirm compatibility.
How fast can DURATRK cylinders operate?
Maximum velocity: 2.0 m/sec
Actual operating speed depends on bore size, stroke length, load weight, air supply volume and pressure, and valve flow capacity. Larger bores handle higher velocities better.
Load capacity decreases with velocity. Reference load tables for specific ratings at 29 in/s, 39 in/s, and 60 in/s. For high-speed applications, verify that kinetic energy is within cushioning capacity.
Contact us about high-speed applications
Do DURATRK cylinders require external shock absorbers?
No, for most applications. DURATRK cylinders include high-precision internal cushioning:
- Multi-turn, fine thread, needle pin adjustment
- Adjustable from minimal to fully blocked
- Located in each end cap for tool adjustment
Proper cushioning extends cylinder life by reducing impact loads on internal components and connected machinery.
Learn about pneumatic actuators
Band Seal Design & Reliability
How does the DURATRK band seal work?
DURATRK uses a proprietary seal design engineered specifically for reliability:
Seal band construction:
- Extruded polyurethane band with embedded wire strands for strength and retention
- Hook-and-lock function delivers virtually zero leakage through the tube slot
- Wire reinforcement prevents seal stretching and premature wear
Piston seal design:
- Injection molded with structure mounts
- Upward pressure points applied to seal band for superior sealing
- Maintains consistent seal contact throughout pressure cycles
Body slot design:
- Tight construction tolerances in aluminum extrusion
- Unique slot design prevents tube expansion under pressure
- Maintains seal contact even under maximum operating pressure
The band seal is the critical wear component in any rodless band cylinder. DURATRK's design addresses common failure modes through material selection, mechanical design, and manufacturing precision.
Learn about DURATRK technology
What protects the band seal from contamination?
DURATRK includes multiple contamination barriers as standard equipment:
- Front and side wipers attached to carriage
- Wipers provide guiding over entire stroke length
- Side wipers also assist with additional loading
- Tight extrusion construction minimizes contamination entry points
- Stainless steel cover strip protects slot area
For guided models (DTF, DTFD, DTFL), the piston/yoke and sealing slot can be rotated on its side for added protection when the operating environment would otherwise expose the seal to contaminants from above.
What materials are used in DURATRK construction?
- Body/Endcaps: Anodized aluminum with high-strength extruded body
- Piston/Carriage: Aluminum and nylon
- Dynamic Seals: Polyurethane
- Fasteners: Stainless steel
- Cover Strip: Stainless steel
The extrusion body has tight construction tolerances with a unique slot design that prevents tube expansion under pressure. This maintains seal contact and prevents leakage even at maximum operating pressure.
Guides & Performance
When do I need dual guides instead of a single guide?
The DTFD dual-guided cylinder is "especially suited for high loads and moments." It provides 60% more performance than DTF and can be easily mounted to an existing DTF cylinder in the field, providing upgrade flexibility.
Choose DTFD when:
- Moment loads exceed DTF ratings by more than 40%
- Load is centered but very heavy
- Both horizontal and vertical moments are significant
- Application requires maximum rigidity for precision
- Vibration or impact loads are present
The ability to field-add the second guide protects your investment if load requirements change during machine development or after deployment.
What's the difference between external guides and integrated linear rails?
External guides (DTF/DTFD):
- Bearing bars ride in V-groove channels on cylinder body
- Modular design allows field installation
- Good for moderate to heavy loads
- Stabilized on outer body
Integrated linear rails (DTFL/DTKFL):
- Precision linear guideway with recirculating ball bearing system
- DTFL includes two ball bearing blocks; DTKFL includes one
- Guideway located 180° from seal slot to reduce loading on piston/yoke
- Highest load and torque ratings in DURATRK line
- Maximum stroke length limited to 118 inches (3000mm)
- Integrated solution saves engineering time compared to separate cylinder and rail
Linear rails are appropriate when loads or moments exceed DTFD capacity or when precision positioning is critical.
Application Suitability
What applications are best suited for DURATRK cylinders?
DURATRK rodless band cylinders excel in applications requiring precise load movement in space-constrained environments:
Manufacturing & Assembly:
- Automated assembly stations
- Part transfer between workstations
- Pick-and-place operations
- CNC machine integration
Material Handling:
- Conveyor gates in tight spaces
- Product sorting systems
- Pallet positioning
- Container transfer systems
Packaging Equipment:
- Case packing machines
- Product indexing
- Label application
Additional applications:
- Robotics (where compact actuation is needed)
- Low-profile clamping systems
- Automotive assembly
- Electronics manufacturing
- Medical device production
The precision control and space efficiency make DURATRK particularly valuable where performance must meet tight spatial constraints.
Contact Branham for questions regarding unique application types.
When should I choose DURATRK over cable or magnetically-coupled cylinders?
DURATRK advantages:
- More aesthetically pleasing than cable cylinders (important in public-facing environments)
- Moderate cost between economical cable cylinders and premium magnetically-coupled designs
- Can accommodate direct loading without guidance in many applications
- Modular design allows field addition of guides
- Tight construction keeps contaminants out better than cable designs
Choose cable cylinders when:
- Budget is primary concern (cable cylinders are relatively inexpensive)
- Stroke lengths exceed DURATRK capabilities (cable can accommodate up to 30+ feet)
- Application requires cables to extend beyond cylinder body
- Aesthetics are not a concern
Choose MAGTEC magnetically-coupled when:
- Operating environment is harsh (corrosive, washdown, food processing)
- Complete sealing is required to eliminate potential lubricant leakage
- Application operates with cleaning chemicals and water present
- Contaminants must be eliminated entirely
Compare rodless cylinder types
Can DURATRK handle high-cycle applications?
Yes. DURATRK cylinders are designed for continuous operation in high-cycle environments:
- Wire-reinforced band seal resists stretching
- Injection-molded piston seals maintain consistent performance
- Thick-walled aluminum tubing with anodized coating
- Stainless steel fasteners and cover strip
For maximum service life in high-cycle applications:
- Operate within specified pressure range (29-110 PSI)
- Use filtered, properly lubricated air
- Keep external components clean
- Consider guided models (DTF/DTFD/DTFL) for additional structural support
Learn about pneumatic actuators
Can DURATRK handle harsh environments?
DURATRK includes contamination protection as standard:
- Front and side wipers block contaminants
- Tight extrusion construction minimizes entry points
- Stainless steel cover strip protects slot area
- Guided models allow seal slot rotation away from contamination source
For particularly harsh environments, consider:
- More frequent inspection intervals
- DTF/DTFD/DTFL models with rotated seal slot orientation
- Additional external guarding if needed
For environments with severe contamination, corrosive chemicals, or frequent washdown, MAGTEC magnetically-coupled cylinders provide complete sealing and may be more appropriate.
Compare rodless cylinder options
Ordering & Support
How do I order a DURATRK cylinder 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
