Consistent performance and reliability help ensure industrial equipment operates as expected, especially under heavy loads. For many applications, rodless air cylinders can deliver that reliability.
Rodless cylinders have no exposed rod to potentially become damaged or fail under repeated pressure. The load remains constant along the entire stroke, which helps ensure consistent operation in high-cycle applications. Depending on the type, rodless air cylinders can be used with internal or external guide systems.
To achieve the reliability you need and expect, pick the appropriate cylinder, use it properly, and care for it as recommended.
Reliability Factors
Reliability starts with quality materials and workmanship. But air cylinder performance and durability depend on other factors as well, including operating environment, run time, run cycles, and maintenance.
Each application has its own unique set of requirements which help point to the most appropriate style of rodless cylinder:
- Budget: If you want the most economical option and your requirements are not as strict as in some applications, a standard cable cylinder may be your best choice. These can be guided, if needed.
- Aesthetics: DURATRK band-type actuators are more aesthetically pleasing, which can be a bonus in public-facing operating environments. In addition to aesthetics, the DURATRK cylinders can be outfitted with additional guides to ensure load capabilities.
- Size: If you have a limited envelope but need a certain stroke length, DURATRK or MAGTEC magnetically-coupled cylinders are good options.
- Operating environment: If you need air cylinders that can stand up to harsh, dirty, or heavy washdown environments, MAGTEC or PNEU-SA enclosed cable style cylinders are excellent options. MAGTEC is also available in stainless steel for food-grade operations.
- Heavy-duty applications: Single-acting rodless air cylinders are designed for heavy lifting or tensioning, such as for opening gates or bay doors, lifting material or products, and counterbalancing. As an alternative, you can consider a LTC (linear tension cable) cylinder.
Proper Maintenance
Even simple applications can vary in operation, causing one cylinder to last longer than another. That said, you can ensure maximum reliability and longest service life with proper maintenance:
- Keep surfaces clean
- Ensure correct cable tension
- Use lubricated air for certain applications, like those with heavy loads or high temperatures
- Protect cylinders from temperature extremes, and consider a heat shield to prevent excessive heat
- Avoid long durations of non-use to prevent seals from drying or deforming.
- Ensure proper cushioning
- Follow the maintenance instructions
Consult a Rodless Air Cylinder Expert
If you need help choosing the best rodless air cylinder for your application and location, make a list of your requirements and talk to one of our Branham engineers. By discussing your needs in detail, you may uncover additional requirements that can materially affect performance and reliability of your cylinder.
