Air cylinders are devices that use compressed air and convert it into mechanical energy. A pneumatic air cylinder functions in the similar manner in a pneumatic system and some people refer to it as a pneumatic linear actuator. Many industries utilize different air cylinder designs for numerous applications such as material handling and robotics.

An air cylinder manufacturer can produce these devices in two types: double acting and single acting. Some differences between the two types are that a single acting cylinder has pressure on one side and needs much less air power for one operating cycle. Air cylinders are available in various materials and many housing styles that include tie-rod, pancake, rodless and rectangular.

Before selecting air cylinders for any applications, you should review certain specification such as cylinder material, stroke length, mounting style, operating pressure and cylinder sizing. Some options to consider before buying from an air cylinder supplier are:

1. Find an air cylinder distributor that carries a good inventory of different types of products and accessories.

2. Select air cylinder replacement kits or repair services to minimize production downtime.

3. Search for an air cylinder manufacturer that can customize units for unique application requirements.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a reputable air cylinder supplier that can meet all your business needs

Air cylinders are available in a variety of styles, materials, types with many features and optional components. For a good selection of the right type of cylinder, you should choose suppliers that are a one-stop source for all your air cylinder needs and can provide a wide range of different types/styles of this product and any accessories.

I recommend: Peninsular Cylinders is a supplier of air and hydraulic cylinder units in various material and mounting styles for many applications; also has repair services. Accessories and a comprehensive detailed list of product features are available for a proper selection of a unit. SMC is another manufacturer of air cylinders with a huge inventory of products in different sizes and mounting configurations; accessories and hydraulic cylinders are available. Air Cylinders Direct is another good source for pneumatic air cylinders and accessories.

Keep business productivity high by having air cylinder replacement kits available for an emergency

Air cylinders are available as either repairable or non-repairable. If an air cylinder is non-repairable and is not working at peak performance, then you have to throw it away and buy a new one. However, for repairable types, you may just need a replacement kit with the right seals or parts to fix the unit. Stocking up on kits or components may be a good idea. Repair services may be another option if you are unable to do the work yourself.

I recommend: Signal Industrial Products offers replacement kits for pneumatic air cylinders and cylinder remanufacturing. Custom Cylinders International provides rebuilding and repair services and seal kits for cylinders.

Find air cylinder manufacturers that can provide custom services

In some cases, an off -the-shelf standard air cylinder may not meet certain sizing specifications or you may require a special unit like a micro cylinder. For these unique application requirements, a customized or specialty unit is the only solution. You should find experienced companies that can offer quality work at competitive prices and good delivery times.

I recommend: At Clippard Instrument Laboratory, you can find a good selection of Minimatic miniature cylinders. Fabco Air and LeHigh Fluid Power offer custom design units for a variety of applications. Check out the examples of custom solutions provided by these companies.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When selecting an air cylinder, you should know that cylinder stroke and bore size are important. Stroke refers to how far the piston will extend when activated. Bore size is the surface area of the piston face.