A rodless cylinder is a type of pneumatic actuator. It is called “rodless” because it does not have an external piston rod, yet the piston still moves along the axis of the cylinder tube. Therefore, it is also classified as a rodless linear actuator.

Categories of Rodless Cylinders

Based on their internal structure and driving mechanism, rodless cylinders can be divided into two main types:

Magnetically Coupled Rodless Cylinder

The internal piston is connected to the external slider through magnetic force.

No mechanical linkage is required.

Offers better air tightness because the cylinder tube does not need an opening.

Typical products: SMC CY1 series, Festo DGC-M

The CY1L you mentioned belongs to this category.

Mechanically Coupled Rodless Cylinder

The internal piston is connected to an external carriage via a mechanical linkage belt / coupling block / slider.

The cylinder tube has a long slot, sealed by sealing strips to prevent air leakage.

Provides higher load capacity.

Typical products: SMC MY1 / MY2 series, Festo DGC-GF