ULTRIQ Pancake Cylinders FAQ

Model Selection & Configuration

ULTRIQ is a compact, rodded pancake cylinder designed for applications that require high torque but small, precise linear movements. With more than thousands of configuration options, ULTRIQ cylinders are ideally suited for use in a wide range of industrial equipment or end-user products:

• 5 bore sizes
• 3 mounting options
• 13 stroke lengths
• Rod, seal, and grease

Configuration choices depend on loading conditions, environmental factors, and installation constraints. Our technical team can recommend appropriate options.

Use our online 3D Configurator

What bore sizes are available in ULTRIQ cylinders?

ULTRIQ cylinders are available in five bore sizes of 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 inches.

Proper bore size depends on required force at your available air pressure. Larger bores generate greater force but consume more air and require additional mounting space.

What mounting options are available in ULTRIQ cylinders?

• Standard thru-hole
• Threaded - located front, rear, or both, surface or inset
• Screw head clearance

What rod and threading options are available in ULTRIQ cylinders?

• Male or female
• Fine or coarse rod threads

What standard stroke lengths are available in ULTRIQ cylinders?

ULTRIQ cylinders are available in 13 standard stroke lengths (in inches): 0.25, 0.375, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, 2.00, 2.50. 3.00. 3.50. 4.00. Custom stroke lengths may also be offered upon consultation.

What seal options does ULTRIQ offer?

• Standard seals: Advanced Quad-X Buna-N piston and rod seals use proven elastomers for typical industrial temperatures and general manufacturing.
• Viton® high-performance seals: Fluoroelastomers are exceptionally resistant to extreme heat and oils as well as harsh chemicals and environmental conditions.
• High temperature seals offer extended range for applications near heat sources (ovens, dryers, heat treatment).

Is food-grade grease available for ULTRIQ cylinders?

Yes, cylinders can be configured with food grade lubricant as needed for specific applications.

Can ULTRIQ cylinders be customized?

If you find you have a need beyond the standard ULTRIQ configuration options offered, contact the Branham team to learn if those special needs can be fulfilled.

Learn more about ULTRIQ configuration options

How much lead time is required?

An efficient, reliable supply chain is critical to avoid costly delays and downtime. Branham supports expedited ordering and shipping by maintaining an inventory of ULTRIQ cylinders components that are ready to assemble. We offer standard one-week lead time to ship. If it’s really urgent, contact us to see if we can turn around your order even faster.

Learn why ULTRIQ is the zero-delay solution

Performance & Operating Conditions

ULTRIQ cylinder key attributes

• Anodized aluminum housing
• 1/8 in. wall hardcoated
• Anodized aluminum bolt covers
• Anodized aluminum alloy end caps
• AISI 303 stainless steel hard chrome rod
• Oil-filled bronze rod bearing
• Stainless steel fasteners
• NPT porting (x2)
• Branham’s 2-year limited warranty

Learn more about ULTRIQ pancake cylinders

What operating conditions do ULTRIQ cylinders support?

• Pressure Range: up to 150 PSI
• Operating Temperature: -20o to 200o F
• Media: Compressed and filtered air, dry or lubricated

With optional high temperature seals and different grease and mounting options, ULTRIQ cylinders support most industrial automation applications in material handling, packaging, manufacturing, and assembly operations.

Are ULTRIQ cylinders interchangeable with other brands?

Yes, ULTRIQ pancake cylinders are interchangeable with a number of popular brands and models, at similar cost. They fit dimensionally as well as functionally, making them an excellent choice for replacement or when a higher quality, more reliable cylinder is desired.

Can ULTRIQ cylinders withstand high temperatures? 

Yes, when configured with Viton high-performance seals, ULTRIQ cylinders are suitable for applications where operational limits exceed standard temperature ranges (rated to 350 degrees F).

Sustained high temperatures can degrade standard seals over time because the elastomers lose flexibility, harden, and crack. Choosing specialized seals maintains flexibility and sealing effectiveness in applications near dryers, ovens, or heat treatment equipment.

When configuring cylinders be sure to specify expected temperature conditions to ensure appropriate seal materials and design features. Our Branham technical support team can advise on proper model and seal selection.

Application Suitability 

What applications are best suited for ULTRIQ cylinders?

ULTRIQ cylinders excel in applications requiring powerful force and a relatively compact actuator:

• Manufacturing and assembly automation
• Material handling systems
• Packaging equipment
• Conveyors with small gates located in tight spaces
• Robotic systems
• Low-profile clamping mechanisms
• Automotive components
• Electronic manufacturing
• Medical device operation

ULTRIQ’s flat, round shape fits where standard cylinders do not. Their ability to deliver high torque with a short stroke makes these pancake cylinders especially valuable for small machinery, but they can also be an efficient choice where space is not a concern.

Learn how ULTRIQ cylinders maximize workspace efficiency

Can ULTRIQ cylinders handle harsh environments?

ULTRIQ’s anodized aluminum housing withstands humid or wet conditions. These actuators are suitable for use in heavy washdown, outdoor, or other environments where dirt, debris, or harsh chemicals are present.

Because they are not available in stainless steel, ULTRIQ cylinders are not suitable for some food processing or other applications where stainless steel is required. However, they are available with optional food grade grease if that is acceptable for the application.

• Corrosive environments: Resists acids, bases, salts, and process chemicals. Suitable for coastal installations and chemical processing.
• Temperature extremes: High-temperature seals maintain performance in environments up to 200oF.
• Heavy washdown: Withstands high-pressure washdown with hot water, steam, and cleaning chemicals with surface degradation.
• Contaminated atmospheres: ULTRIQ cylinders are not available with metal scrapers used to remove abrasive particles.
• Humid or wet conditions: Comparable to stainless steel in resisting rust in high-humidity or direct water exposure or outdoor installations.
• Food grade grease: Available as an option.

Learn more about harsh environment solutions

Maintenance & Serviceability

Are ULTRIQ cylinders refurbishable on-site?

Yes. There is no need to return cylinders for service or replace entire units when seals wear. Instead, field-repairable seal kits are available for efficient on-site replacement that takes just hours, not days.

• Standard seal kits: proven elastomers for typical industrial environments.
• High-temperature seal kits: For elevated temperature applications.
• Maintenance technicians familiar with basic pneumatic systems can disassemble cylinders, replace worn seals from Branham seal kits, and return cylinders to service. This minimizes costly production delays for systems that depend on cylinder actuation such as packaging lines, automated assembly, and material handling.
• Kits include all wear components (rod seals and piston seals) matched to specific ULTRIQ models. Maintaining inventory on-site supports predictive maintenance and helps prevent emergency repairs because replacement can be scheduled during planned shutdowns.

Order field repair kits

How do I know when seals need replacement?

Several factors indicate seal degradation requirement replacement:

• Air leakage: Slight audible leakage near rod seal or end caps, which increases as seal degrades.
• Reduced stroke speed: Worn seals allow internal pressure bypass, reducing force and slowing stroke speed.
• Reduced force output: Internal leakage reduces effective pressure on piston, decreasing force capability.
• Erratic movement: inconsistent seal contact creates jerking or stuttering during stroke instead of consistent, 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.

Regular inspection allows preventive replacement to be scheduled during regular maintenance periods, rather than emergency repairs. Replacing seals before they fail completely prevents collateral damage to other internal cylinder components.

However, because ULTRIQ cylinders are very affordable, in certain instances it may be more economical and efficient to replace the entire cylinder rather than taking the time for disassembly for seal replacement.

Learn about predictive maintenance

Why should I choose ULTRIQ over other cylinder brands?

• Manufacturing quality: ULTRIQ cylinders are manufactured in Wisconsin by W.C. Branham using the highest quality materials and workmanship.
• Versatility: Myriad configuration options make it easy to spec a new component, match an existing component, or find a substitute of higher quality.
• Seal variety: Both standard and high-temperature seals are available.
• Short lead time: Standard lead time of one week to ship.
• Responsive technical support: Application assistance and troubleshooting from Branham engineers familiar with North American industrial applications, without extensive time-zone delays.
• North American distribution: Responsive delivery from Branham’s central-USA location minimizes time from order to receipt.

Compare ULTRIQ advantages

Ordering & Support

How do I order an ULTRIQ 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