Hydraulic Cylinders
Hydraulic Cylinder | Double-Acting Piston | 40mm Bore x 25mm Stroke
CMP-04551HYDR-00353
£96.99
Hydraulic Cylinders
3 products available
Hydraulic cylinders are mechanical actuators that convert hydraulic fluid power into linear force and motion. Often called hydraulic rams, they are fundamental components in industrial machinery, construction equipment, and manufacturing systems. They provide the force needed for lifting, pushing, pulling, and pressing operations.
Compel supplies industrial hydraulic cylinders for MRO and OEM applications. Our focused selection includes standard double-acting cylinders in common metric sizes and specific replacement parts for vehicle systems. We provide the detailed specifications required by engineers and technicians to source a direct-fit component for their equipment.
Action Type: Double Acting vs. Single Acting
The primary decision is the cylinder's action type. A double acting hydraulic cylinder uses fluid pressure for both extension and retraction strokes, providing precise, powered control in both directions. This is common in applications requiring both pushing and pulling forces.
A single acting hydraulic cylinder uses hydraulic pressure for one direction of travel, typically extension. The return stroke is accomplished by an internal spring or the load's weight. Our range centers on double-acting piston designs for bidirectional industrial use.
Key Dimensions: Bore Diameter and Stroke Length
Correctly sizing a cylinder is for performance. The bore diameter-the internal diameter of the cylinder barrel-determines the force output at a given system pressure. A larger bore generates more force. Stroke length is the maximum distance the piston and rod can travel from fully retracted to fully extended.
To choose the right size, measure your existing unit or calculate the force and travel requirements for your application. Our stock includes common industrial sizes with bore diameters from 32mm to 63mm and stroke lengths ranging from 50mm to 1000mm.
Confirming Type, Mounting, and Compatibility
Ensure the cylinder's construction and mounting style match your equipment. Tie rod cylinders, for example, are a common and serviceable design for industrial settings. For replacement parts, especially in automotive applications like a convertible top mechanism, compatibility is non-negotiable. Always verify that the replacement part matches the specified OEM number, such as 1708000072 for certain Mercedes-Benz models.
Finally, confirm the drive type. Hydraulic and pneumatic systems are not interchangeable. A hydraulic cylinder is designed for incompressible oil, while a pneumatic cylinder uses compressed air. Always check the product's specifications to ensure it matches your power source.
Buying guide
Choosing Hydraulic Cylinders
- What is the difference between a double acting and single acting hydraulic cylinder?
- A double acting cylinder uses hydraulic pressure for both the extension and retraction strokes, giving you powered control in two directions. A single acting cylinder is powered in one direction only and relies on a spring or external force to return to its starting position.
- How do I choose the right bore and stroke length?
- Bore diameter determines the cylinder's force output at a given pressure. Stroke length is the distance the rod travels. Measure the dimensions of the cylinder you are replacing or calculate the force and travel distance your application requires.
- My cylinder is for a convertible top. How do I ensure a match?
- For specific vehicle applications, you must match the OEM part number exactly. For example, a cylinder replacing part A1708000072 is designed exclusively for the fit and function of compatible Mercedes-Benz SLK models. Using a generic industrial cylinder is not a safe alternative.
- Is a hydraulic ram the same as a hydraulic cylinder?
- The terms are often used interchangeably, though 'hydraulic ram' frequently refers to a heavy-duty, single-acting cylinder used for lifting or pressing. Both devices operate on the same principle of converting hydraulic fluid pressure into linear force.
- Can I use a hydraulic cylinder with my compressed air system?
- No. Hydraulic cylinders are designed for incompressible liquids like oil. Using one with compressed air is dangerous and will lead to improper operation and system damage. You must use a pneumatic cylinder for air-powered systems.