Pneumatic Cylinders

Pneumatic cylinders, or air cylinders, use compressed air to create linear motion, such as up-and-down or back-and-forth movements. The pneumatic cylinder works by using a piston, usually a disc or cylinder, and a rod to direct force for movement. Compressed air enters the cylinder, pushing the piston to create motion. We offer a wide range of pneumatic cylinders, including compact pneumatic cylinders, ISO 15552 standard cylinders, NFPA interchangeable, repairable, non-repairable, rotary, rodless, and custom-made units. We also provide various cylinder accessories to enhance functionality. Our cylinders feature options like pneumatic cushioning, single acting pneumatic cylinders, and double acting pneumatic cylinders.

ASCO Numatics 435 Series Round Cylinders

The ASCO Numatics 435 Series Round Pneumatic Cylinders are designed for industrial automation and manufacturing, offering bore sizes from 8 to 25mm, a temperature rating of -20°C to 70°C, and a pressure rating of 2 to 10 bar. With stroke lengths ranging from 5 to 900mm, these cylinders are available in both double- and single-acting versions. Their precise engineering ensures reliable performance in various applications, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of industrial needs.

Bore Size (mm): 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25
Ambient Temperature Range: -20°C to 70°C
Operating Pressure: 2 to 10 bar (SA), & 10 bar max (DA)
Standards: ISO 6432
Function: Single Acting or Double Acting
Media: Air or Inert Gas, Filtered, Lubricated or not
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ASCO Numatics 438 Series Round Cylinders

The ASCO Numatics 438 Series Round Pneumatic Cylinders, available in bore sizes of 32, 40, 50, and 63mm, are designed for industrial automation and manufacturing applications. These cylinders operate efficiently within a temperature range of -20°C to 70°C and a pressure rating of 1 to 10 bar. With stroke lengths from 5 to 1000mm, they are available in both double-acting and single-acting functions, providing versatile and reliable performance for a wide range of industrial needs.

Bore Size (mm): 32, 40, 50, 63
Ambient Temperature Range: -20°C to 70°C
Operating Pressure: 1 to 10 bar (SA), & 10 bar max (DA)
Standards: ISO 6431
Function: Single Acting or Double Acting
Media: Air or Inert Gas, Filtered, Lubricated or not
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ASCO Numatics 441 Series Short Stroke Compact Cylinders

The ASCO Numatics 441 Series Short Stroke Compact Cylinders are ideal for industrial automation and manufacturing applications, offering bore sizes from 8 to 100mm and stroke lengths from 4 to 150mm. With a temperature rating ranging from -20°C to 120°C, depending on options, and a pressure rating between 1 to 10 bar, these cylinders provide versatile functionality in both double-acting and single-acting forms. They are designed to deliver reliable performance in a wide range of operating conditions.

Bore Size (mm): 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100
Ambient Temperature Range: -20°C to 70°C
Operating Pressure: 10 bar max
Standards: ISO 16030
Function: Single Acting or Double Acting (with single/double rod, antirotation device)
Media: Air or Inert Gas, Filtered, Lubricated or not
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ASCO Numatics 449 Series Compact Cylinders

The ASCO Numatics 449 Series Compact ISO Pneumatic Cylinders are designed for industrial automation and manufacturing applications, offering a range of bore sizes from 20mm to 100mm. These cylinders operate within a temperature range of -20°C to 70°C and a pressure rating of 1 to 10 bar. Available in both double-acting and single-acting functions, they feature stroke lengths from 5mm to 400mm, providing versatility and efficiency for various industrial tasks.

Bore Size (mm): 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100
Ambient Temperature Range: -20°C to 70°C
Operating Pressure: 10 bar max
Standards: ISO 21287
Function: Single Acting or Double Acting
Media: Air or Inert Gas, Filtered, Lubricated or not
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ASCO Numatics 453 Series ISO Standard Profiled Barrel Cylinders

The Asco Numatics 453 Series ISO Standard Profiled Barrel Cylinders are designed for industrial automation and manufacturing applications. Available in bore sizes of 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, and 100mm, they operate within a temperature range of -20°C to 120°C and a pressure range of 1 to 10 bar. These double-acting cylinders support stroke lengths from 5 to 2000mm, ensuring reliable performance across various industrial settings.

Bore Size (mm): 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100
Ambient Temperature Range: -20°C to 70°C
Operating Pressure: 10 bar max
Standards: ISO 15552
Function: Double Acting
Media: Air or Inert Gas, Filtered, Lubricated or not
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AVENTICS™ NFPA Cylinders

AVENTICS™ NFPA Cylinders, including the PowerMaster, PressureMaster, TM5 TaskMaster, A, S, and F series, deliver versatile performance for factory automation, packaging, heavy-duty, and high-pressure applications. Conforming to J.I.C. and NFPA standards, these double-acting cylinders operate with compressed air. Designed for interchangeability, they feature aluminium or steel tie-rod construction, ensuring compatibility across manufacturers while meeting demanding industry requirements.

Available Series: PowerMaster, PressureMaster, TM5 TaskMaster, A, S, & F
Applications: Factory Automation, Packaging, Heavy-Duty, & High Pressure
Standards: J. I. C. and NFPA
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Mini Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Mini Cylinders, available in MNI and ICM series, are compact solutions designed for automation, robotics, manufacturing, and packaging applications. Built to ISO 6432 standards, these cylinders offer single-acting functionality and remain retracted without pressure, ensuring efficient operation. Optimised for use with compressed air, they deliver reliable performance across diverse industrial tasks where space-saving is essential.

Available Series: MNI, & ICM
Applications: Automation, Robotics, Manufacturing, & Packaging
Standards: ISO 6432
Functions: Single Acting, Retracted without Pressure
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Round Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Round Cylinders, including the RPC, CSL-RD, and ICS-D2 series, provide compact solutions for automation, food processing, and light-duty applications. Designed to ISO 6431 standards, these double-acting cylinders operate with compressed air, offering durability and easy maintenance. Their corrosion resistance and hygienic design make them ideal for environments requiring cleanability, supporting efficient performance across diverse industrial needs.

Available Series: RPC, CSL-RD, & ICS-D2
Applications: Automation, Food Processing, & Light Duty
Standards: ISO 6431
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Compact Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Compact Cylinders, including the CCI, CCL-IC, KPZ, and C series, are designed for applications in food and beverage, diagnostic instrumentation, and automotive industries. Conforming to ISO 21287 and NFE 49004 standards, they offer single acting, retracted without pressure, and double acting functions. These cylinders operate with compressed air, ensuring efficient performance across diverse industrial settings.

Available Series: CCI, CCL-IC, KPZ, & C
Applications: Food & Beverage, Diagnostic Instrumentation, & Automotive
Standards: ISO 21287 & NFE 49004
Functions: Single Acting, Retracted without Pressure, & Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Short Stroke Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Short Stroke Cylinders, including the SSI and KHZ series, are designed for clamping operations, packaging machinery, and medical devices. These compact pneumatic cylinders comply with ISO 15524 standards and operate with compressed air. Featuring single-acting functionality, they retract without pressure, making them ideal for applications requiring short stroke lengths in confined spaces. Standard and non-standard sizes are available to suit diverse needs.

Available Series: SSI, & KHZ
Applications: Clamping Operations, Packaging Machinery, & Medical Devices
Standards: ISO 15524
Functions: Single Acting, Retracted without Pressure
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Profile Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Profile Cylinders, available in PRA and CVI series, are designed for efficient use in assembly operations, machine construction, and packaging applications. Compliant with ISO 15552 standards, with optional ATEX compatibility, these double-acting cylinders operate using compressed air for reliable performance across various industrial tasks. Their design ensures seamless integration and adaptability to demanding environments.

Available Series: PRA, & CVI
Applications: Assembly Operations, Machine Constructions, & Packaging
Standards: ISO 15552 (ATEX Optional)
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Tie Rod Cylinders

The AVENTICS™ Tie Rod Cylinders, available in series TRB, ITS, C12P, CCL-IS, 437, and 167, are designed for use in the wood, aluminium, automotive, and heavy-duty industries. Compliant with ISO 15552, ISO 6431, and CNOMO standards, with ATEX options available, these double-acting cylinders operate using compressed air. They deliver reliable performance across demanding applications, ensuring adherence to industry requirements.

Available Series: TRB, ITS, C12P, CCL-IS, 437, & 167
Applications: Wood & Aluminium Industries, Automotive, & Heavy Duty
Standards: ISO 15552, ISO 6431, & CNOMO (ATEX Optional)
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Rodless Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Rodless Cylinders, including the RTC, CKP, and GSU series, are double-acting linear drives that operate using compressed air without a piston rod. Ideal for conveying, heavy load movement, and handling systems, they maximise stroke length in compact spaces. These cylinders deliver precise guiding, excellent repeatability, and high load capacity, making them perfect for efficient, space-saving industrial applications.

Available Series: RTC, CKP, & GSU
Applications: Conveying, Heavy Load Movement, & Handling Systems
Standards: N/A
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Guided Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Guided Cylinders, including the MSN, MSC, and GPC series, are designed for applications like small-scale automation systems, material handling, and heavy-duty tasks. Operating with compressed air and a double-acting function, these cylinders deliver precise positioning and stability, ideal for compact spaces and high-load demands. They are essential in sectors requiring accurate guidance, such as automotive, diagnostic equipment, and biofuels.

Available Series: MSN, MSC, & GPC
Applications: Small Scale Automation Systems, Material Handling, & Heavy Duty
Standards: N/A
Functions: Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Rotary Actuators

AVENTICS™ Rotary Actuators, including the RCM, TRR, and RAK series, are designed for robotics, textiles, and electronics manufacturing. Using compressed air, these double-piston rack actuators deliver precise rotary motion with adjustable angles and high torque. Compact and durable, they enhance automation in applications requiring efficient, accurate rotation, making them ideal for material handling and specialised machinery in diverse industrial environments.

Available Series: RCM, TRR, & RAK
Applications: Robotics, Textiles, & Electronics Manufacturing
Standards: N/A
Functions: Double Piston with Rack
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Bellows Actuators

The AVENTICS™ Bellows Actuators, including the BCP, BCC, BCR, and BRB series, deliver efficient single-acting motion control without a piston rod or spring return. Designed for applications such as pressing, clamping, and vibration isolation, they operate using compressed air and feature a compact installation height. These actuators support both linear and non-linear motion, making them ideal for various pneumatic systems, with flexible material and mounting options to suit diverse needs.

Available Series: BCP, BCC, BCR, & BRB
Applications: Motion Control, Pressing & Clamping, & Vibration Isolation
Standards: N/A
Functions: Single Acting, Retracted without Pressure
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Special Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Special Cylinders, including the SWN, RDC, 102, ACCU, KPZ-SC, and CCI-SC series, deliver reliable pneumatic performance for clamping, material handling, and packaging machinery. Built to NFPA, IP65, NFE 49-004, and ISO 21287 standards, these cylinders support single acting, double acting, and retracted without pressure functions using compressed air. Ideal for demanding environments, they ensure efficient linear motion even in confined spaces.

Available Series: SWN, RDC, 102, ACCU, KPZ-SC, & CCI-SC
Applications: Clamping, Material Handling, & Packaging Machinery
Standards: NFPA, IP65, NFE 49-004, & ISO 21287
Functions: Single Acting, Retracted without Pressure, & Double Acting
Media: Compressed Air
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AVENTICS™ Slide Cylinders

AVENTICS™ Special Cylinders, including the SWN, RDC, 102, ACCU, KPZ-SC, and CCI-SC series, deliver reliable pneumatic performance for clamping, material handling, and packaging machinery. Built to NFPA, IP65, NFE 49-004, and ISO 21287 standards, these cylinders support single acting, double acting, and retracted without pressure functions using compressed air. Ideal for demanding environments, they ensure efficient linear motion even in confined spaces.

Available Series: SH, LCX, & GS
Applications: Analytical & Diagnostic Equipment, Automotive, & Bottling
Operating Environment: Corrosive, Hazardous, Indoor, Outdoor, Washdown
Bore Size Range: 5/16" ... 3"
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Pneumatic Cylinder Specifications

Pneumatic cylinders are occasionally known as air cylinders. These mechanical devices harness the power of compressed air, in order to produce a force in a reciprocating motion, usually up-and-down, or back and forth. They are similar to hydraulic cylinders, as they force a component to move in a specific direction. Usually, the component, a piston, is a disc or cylinder, and a rod transfers the force to move the object.

For some types of work, it is preferable to use a pneumatic cylinder as they are quieter than other types of valves, cleaner and require less space. This type of cylinders is cleaner because they use air rather than a fluid – meaning there is less likely to be a leakage which could contaminate the area. This makes pneumatic cylinders ideal for use in areas where cleanliness is a priority.

Pneumatic Cylinder Specifications

Bore Size Range: 20MM – 200MM
Body Materials: Aluminium, Stainless Steel (More on request)
Port Size Range: 1/8” – 1 1/4” & M5/M7
Applications: Bottling, Press Printing/Stamping, Biofuels, Suspension, Heating, Life Sciences
Applications: Tyre Manufacturing, Refining, Commercial Laundry, Combustion, Automotive

Types of Pneumatic Cylinder

Pneumatic cylinders vary in terms of their size and appearance, but there are three main types available on the market. 

Single acting cylinder. This type uses the pressure from compressed air to create a force in one direction – usually outwards, and a spring to return the force to the home direction. The cylinder usually has an extension to compromise for the space that the spring requires.

Double acting cylinder. A double acting cylinder uses the force of air to move in two different strokes – extend and retract. This type of cylinder has two ports to let air in – one for instroke and one for outstroke.

Rodless band cylinder. A rodless band cylinder offers a high level of load control as it has no piston rod. It uses a magnet or mechanical coupling to transmit force to the rest of the cylinder. The cylinder has two flexible metal bands – one is used to stop air escaping, whilst the other is designed to protect the slot and the inner band.

Design of Pneumatic Cylinders

Depending on what the pneumatic cylinder is required for, there are various designs available. Materials used for these cylinders vary between aluminium, steel, nickel plated brass and stainless steel. The type of material selected depends on the temperature, humidity and level of loads that the cylinder is required for.

Tie rod cylinder. This is the most common type and it is usually deemed to be the safest.

Flanged-type cylinder. Fixed flanges are fitted to the cylinder – this is more common in hydraulic cylinders rather than pneumatic cylinders.

Threaded end cylinder. The ends of this type of cylinder are screwed onto the body.

Asco Numatics pneumatic cylinders are available for sizes ranging from 20MM to 200MM, however custom options are available on request.

Looking for more?

Looking for more advanced pneumatic cylinder solutions? At Actuation, we are dedicated to providing top-quality valve and actuator systems, but we understand that sometimes, you need a specialist in pneumatic cylinders. Why not visit our cylinder specific website, Pneumaticcylinder.co.uk.

There, you’ll find a comprehensive range of pneumatic cylinders tailored for various industries, supported by a team of experts ready to assist you with product selection and technical advice. Whether you need single or double-acting cylinders, or bespoke solutions, our sister website has got you covered. Explore their extensive offerings today and benefit from the same high standards of quality and service you expect from Actuation.

Pneumaticcylinder.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

Double-acting air cylinders operate in both directions, using compressed air through two ports for extension and retraction. They offer precise control for applications needing force in both directions. Single-acting air cylinders, on the other hand, work in one direction, using compressed air for extension and an external force (like a spring) for retraction. They are simpler and more cost-effective, best suited for applications requiring force primarily in one direction. Choosing between them depends on specific application requirements and cost considerations.

Yes, pneumatic cylinders can be designed to stop mid-stroke. This is typically achieved through the use of control valves that can control the flow of compressed air to the cylinder. By adjusting the flow rate or shutting off the air supply at a specific point in the stroke, the movement of the piston can be halted at any desired position within the cylinder's range of motion. Additionally, certain advanced pneumatic systems may incorporate sensors or feedback mechanisms to provide precise control over the cylinder's position and enable accurate stopping at a specific point in the stroke.

In the context of pneumatic cylinders, the term "stroke" refers to the maximum linear distance that the piston or rod of the cylinder can travel from one end to the other. It represents the full extension or retraction length of the cylinder.

The strength of a pneumatic cylinder can vary widely depending on its design, size, and the pressure of the compressed air it's utilizing. Pneumatic cylinders come in a wide range of sizes and configurations, from small units with relatively low force outputs to larger cylinders capable of exerting significant force. In specific applications, multiple cylinders can be used in tandem or in combination with mechanical leverage to achieve even greater force.

Pneumatic cylinders use compressed air as a working fluid, making them suitable for applications where lighter forces and higher speeds are required. Hydraulic cylinders, on the other hand, utilize non-compressible hydraulic oil, allowing them to generate significantly higher forces with precise control over speed and force. While pneumatic systems are compact, lightweight, and environmentally friendly, hydraulic systems excel in heavy-duty applications, offering superior power density and force capabilities.
Pneumatic cylinders are used in a wide range of applications, including automated machinery, manufacturing equipment, material handling systems, robotics, packaging machinery, and more.
Some advantages of pneumatic cylinders include their simplicity, fast response time, precise control, suitability for clean environments (since they do not produce oil-based contaminants), and cost-effectiveness.
Factors to consider include the required force, stroke length, operating environment conditions (such as temperature and humidity), available space, and any specific features needed for your application.
Regular maintenance may involve tasks like inspecting seals, lubricating moving parts, checking for air leaks, and replacing worn components. Always refer to the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines.
Yes, many manufacturers offer customisation options for pneumatic cylinders. This may include variations in size, stroke length, mounting options, materials, and other features to meet specific requirements.
Yes, pneumatic cylinders can be used in vertical applications, but it's important to consider factors like load capacity, speed control, and the need for counterbalance mechanisms to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Yes, many manufacturers offer pneumatic cylinders with specialized coatings or materials, such as stainless steel or corrosion-resistant coatings, to withstand harsh and corrosive environments. This makes them suitable for applications in industries like chemical processing and offshore drilling.

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Pneumatic Cylinders

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