Choosing the Correct Mounting Type for Your Hydraulic Cylinder
Improper cylinder mounting is a leading cause of sideloading, which contributes to premature wear and equipment downtime. Using the correct mounting type allows your cylinder to function correctly and efficiently and reduces misalignment issues and equipment failure.
Mounting Types for Hydraulic Cylinders
There are several mounting types for hydraulic cylinders. Before we go into how to choose the correct mounting type to reduce cylinder failure, let’s discuss available styles and the difference between fixed and pivot mounts.
Fixed mounts bolt directly to your equipment and should only be used in stationary cylinder applications where load moves along the cylinder’s centerline. If the cylinder must move the load through an arc, you should use a pivot mounting type; these attach to your equipment with pins or bearings to allow movement.
Under the fixed and pivot categories are different mount styles for your cylinder. The most common are:
- Flange Mounts
- Clevis Mounts
- Trunnion Mounts
- Lug Mounts
Factors in Choosing a Hydraulic Cylinder Mount
When deciding how to mount a cylinder you should consider the function, operating conditions, space, and load requirements. These factors are critical in preventing misalignment and will help you narrow down the right mounting type to reduce cylinder failure.
1. Job Function and Operating Conditions
One of the most important is to consider is the cylinder’s primary function. What job does the cylinder perform, and does that job require a fixed or pivot style mount? The operating environment also factors in here. Extreme or fluctuating temperatures cause cylinders, seals, and tubing to expand or contract. Make sure the mounting type you choose accounts for any potential shifting.
2. Space Requirements
Space constraints are a huge part of deciding what type of mount to choose. People tend to gravitate towards clevis or single lug mounting types. Although these are a good, economical cylinder mount, they also consume the most space in terms of length. If space is tight, you should consider a more compact mount style.
3. Cylinder Column Load
Applications with long strokes and using typical pin mounts will not provide enough column load strength to prevent the cylinder from buckling. Several cylinder mounting types can be used in this situation, including trunnion, flange, and foot mounts. Moving the mount from the barrel base to the front can also provide the column strength required for the application.
When choosing the proper mounting types for hydraulic cylinders, don’t limit yourself to what’s available in a catalog. Ask the experts at Hydraulic Cylinders, Inc. about custom mounting types to reduce cylinder failure.
