When do you choose single-acting pneumatic cylinders?

In this article, we zoom in on a specific type within the air cylinders: the single-acting pneumatic cylinder. We look at how this type works. To see what single-acting cylinders can best be used for and to map out all the advantages of this type. After reading this article, you'll immediately know whether a single-acting cylinder is the right one for your system.

Are you exerting force in one direction? Then a single-acting cylinder is a perfect choice. Whether it is an input or output stroke, the cylinder will return to its original position thanks to an internal spring or external force.

What is a Single Acting Pneumatic Cylinder?

A single-acting cylinder is known as a cylinder that can only exert force in one direction. Compressed air enters on one side and pushes the piston to the other side. That's why a single-acting cylinder has only one compressed air connection. Single-acting cylinders are used, among other things, for clamping, lifting or ejecting parts.

How a single-acting cylinder works

As we mentioned above, the piston moves in one direction with the help of compressed air. A single-acting cylinder also has an internal spring. The internal spring ensures that the piston returns to its original position.

Here, single-acting pneumatic cylinders are often used

In the wood processing industry, single-acting cylinders are used to hold pieces of wood in place while they are being cut or drilled (clamping)
In the automotive industry, single-acting cylinders are used to jack up (lift) cars
In the plastics industry, for example, single-acting cylinders eject the finished part from the mould (ejection)

The advantages of a single-acting cylinder

The Prize
Energy piston
Reliability

Because the air is only used in one direction, less compressed air is needed, which in turn results in lower operating costs. And if the air pressure drops due to a malfunction, the spring in the cylinder brings the piston back to its original position. So you save money, but you still enjoy the reliability that air cylinders are supposed to offer.

Types of single-acting cylinders

It is good to know that there are two types of single-acting cylinders:

Pull cylinders
Pressure cylinders

In the case of a pull cylinder, the compressed air provides an input stroke and in the case of a pressure cylinder, the compressed air causes an output stroke. And to bring the cylinder back to its original position, an internal spring or an external force is used. Basically, both cylinders work the same, there is only a difference in the direction of the stroke.

The Differences Between Single-Acting and Double-Acting Cylinders

Single-acting cylinders have one compressed air connection, which allows the piston to move in one direction. Double-acting cylinders have two compressed air connections, which allow the piston to move in both directions.
Single-acting cylinders are very suitable for light assembly work. Double-acting cylinders are better suited for applications that require both speed and power.
Single-acting cylinders have an internal spring that causes the piston to return to its original position.

Find your single-acting pneumatic cylinder at Pneuparts

Are you looking for a single-acting cylinder for your organization? Then you've come to the right place at Pneuparts. We have several single-acting cylinders in our range, such as the ISO 6432 round single-acting cylinder with piston rod inside. But no matter which single-acting cylinder you need, you can be sure that you will find the right cylinder with us. If you still have doubts or questions, please feel free to contact us.

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