Hydraulic Cylinder Calculator

Calculate force output, pressure requirements, and speed for hydraulic cylinder applications

mm
mm
bar
Typical range: 50-350 bar
mm
mm
N
mm
mm
L/min
%
Typical range: 90-98%

Understanding Hydraulic Cylinders

Key Components and Calculations

1. Force Calculations

The force output of a hydraulic cylinder depends on:

  • Bore diameter (piston area)
  • Rod diameter (for retraction force)
  • System pressure
  • Mechanical efficiency

Extension force: \( F = P \times A_b \times \eta \)

Retraction force: \( F = P \times (A_b - A_r) \times \eta \)

Where:

  • \( F \) = Force (N)
  • \( P \) = Pressure (Pa)
  • \( A_b \) = Bore area (m²)
  • \( A_r \) = Rod area (m²)
  • \( \eta \) = Efficiency

2. Speed Calculations

The speed of a hydraulic cylinder depends on:

  • Flow rate
  • Effective area (bore or annular)

Extension speed: \( v = \frac{Q}{A_b} \)

Retraction speed: \( v = \frac{Q}{A_b - A_r} \)

Where:

  • \( v \) = Speed (m/s)
  • \( Q \) = Flow rate (m³/s)
  • \( A_b \) = Bore area (m²)
  • \( A_r \) = Rod area (m²)

Applications of Hydraulic Cylinders

Industry Applications Typical Pressure Range
Construction Excavators, loaders, bulldozers 200-350 bar
Manufacturing Presses, injection molding, material handling 150-300 bar
Agriculture Tractors, harvesters, implements 150-250 bar
Marine Steering, stabilizers, deck equipment 100-200 bar
Aerospace Landing gear, flight controls 200-350 bar

Safety Considerations

Important safety factors for hydraulic cylinders:

  • Never exceed maximum pressure ratings
  • Ensure proper mounting and alignment
  • Use appropriate safety factors in design (typically 1.5-2.5)
  • Monitor for fluid leakage and contamination
  • Consider environmental conditions and temperature effects
  • Implement pressure relief valves to prevent over-pressurization