How long do pneumatic cylinders last？

What is the service life of a cylinder?

Pneumatic cylinders are a very simple, clean, efficient, and stable type of actuator in modern industry. Studying their lifespan helps improve equipment reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness, while also optimizing maintenance and selection decisions.

This refers to the total number of cycles or total operating time a cylinder can complete from the start of its use until its final disposal.

Factors affecting cylinder service life:

* Seal wear: This is the most critical factor determining lifespan.

* Bearing wear: Affects cylinder stability and accuracy.

* Piston rod corrosion or scratches: Leads to external leakage.

* Cylinder barrel inner wall wear: Affects sealing effectiveness, leading to internal leakage.

What is the single cycle time of a cylinder?

This refers to the specific time required for the cylinder to complete one extension or retraction action.

Factors affecting the single cycle time of a cylinder:

Intake flow rate: The higher the flow rate, the faster the speed.

* Load size: The heavier the load, the slower the acceleration.

* System pressure: Pressure provides the driving force.

* The patency of pipelines and valves.

What is the relationship between the two?

Although they measure different things, monitoring changes in single cycle time is the most important means of predicting and extending total lifespan.

How to extend the service life of cylinders

Key Conditions and Factors to Help You Choose High-Quality Cylinders 

When choosing high-quality cylinders, the following key conditions and factors need to be considered.

◆ Cylinder Bore and Stroke

Select the appropriate cylinder bore type based on the required load weight, thrust, and stroke length, ensuring the stroke meets process requirements.

◆ Output Force/Torque

Calculate the required cylinder thrust or pull force based on the load, friction, and inertia, and select a single-acting or double-acting cylinder.

◆ Operating Pressure and Temperature Range

Ensure the cylinder can operate stably under existing system pressure. For high-temperature, low-temperature, or special environments, select high-temperature resistant, corrosion-resistant, or explosion-proof cylinder types.

◆ Materials and Durability

Cylinder barrel materials include aluminum alloy and stainless steel. Ensure the piston rod and seal materials meet environmental requirements.

◆ Accuracy and Guiding Performance

For applications requiring high positioning accuracy or torque load resistance, select guide rod or double piston rod cylinders.