Solutions in Motion™

When your industrial design calls for linear movement, you might want to use hydraulic actuators. There are definite advantages to using a fluid-powered actuator, but that doesn’t mean they are right for every purpose. It all comes down to the requirements of your specific application. So, when should you choose hydraulic linear actuators?

W.C. Branham President and CEO Troy Branham introduces our pneumatic actuator line, specifically our new DURATRK™ slot tube style rodless cylinders in this edition of Solutions in Motion.

A lot can go wrong with air cylinders, and when any problem could lead to downtime, damage, or equipment failure, troubleshooting each issue can get complicated. Preventive maintenance can keep air cylinders running at optimum performance levels and reveal telltale signs that you might need to repair them. Look for these six telltale signs you may need air cylinder repairs.

There's a variety of types of actuators available. The energy source that operates an actuator can be hydraulic (fluid-based), pneumatic (air pressure-based), or even electric, and with each energy source comes distinct advantages or disadvantages for use in certain applications. Here’s a summary of the main differences:

In this rodless cylinder video, our experts introduce you to Lanamatic: a Swiss manufacturer of pneumatic rodless cylinders. Through a private label arrangement, Lanamatic products can be found in the United States within the DURATRK™ label here at Branham. 

Learn more about the versatility of the DURATRK Rodless Cylidner Line in our rodless cylinder video:

At W.C. Branham, our slogan says it all: Solutions in Motion. We love a good challenge, and in order to uncover solutions, we’re always thinking outside the box. Or, sometimes, "outside the round" in the case of industrial actuators. That’s how we developed our unique OVLPRO low profile series of pneumatic cylinders.

When choosing actuators for industrial applications, you have to know the amount of force that will be required to perform the job at hand. Cylinders can move, slow, or hold a load -- rapidly and repeatedly, if needed. The force required depends on the load itself – its weight and movement angle, among other factors. An air cylinder force calculator can help you spec exactly the right actuator for the job.

If you need power, there’s nothing like a hydraulic cylinder to deliver a big punch. It’s the workhorse of the industrial world for the heaviest lifters and movers, including bulldozers and dump trucks. Hydraulic cylinders are commonly used in mobile applications. Hydraulic cylinder bore sizes can range from a few inches to several feet in diameter.

Space is often a major consideration when designing equipment for industrial applications. While compact air cylinders have been used for decades, their popularity continues to increase because their short stroke and low profile can accommodate tight spaces where traditional cylinders would not fit.

Small but mighty

Compact air cylinders may be smaller, but they can be just as powerful as their larger cousins. They can be used for linear actuation and control in a wide variety of applications, including:

At W.C. Branham, we take great pride in the quality of our products, which are built to last. Nonetheless, wear and tear is inevitable. Pneumatic cylinders used in industrial applications or in heavy machinery, for instance, often face extremely demanding working conditions. They are constantly moving, often fast and under tremendous force.

Most Common Pneumatic Cylinder Issues

Problems can vary according to the type of pneumatic cylinder and application, but there are some common signs you may see that indicate the need for air cylinder repair: