Hydraulic cylinders are used in a wide range of commercial applications today. In fact, they come in many different shapes, sizes, and there is more than one type of cylinder available. Two of the more common cylinders you will find are the welded and tie rod hydraulic cylinder and here is more information about them.
Defining a Hydraulic Cylinder
Before we examine the difference in cylinders let’s look at what they all have in common. A hydraulic system utilizes pressurized fluid to greatly enhance and increase force. Fluid is pressurized inside of a cylinder by pushing a piston (with a seal). Once a great deal of force is applied, this force transmits to moving parts to perform a number of tasks. Both welded and tie rod hydraulic cylinder applications utilize the same basic principles.
Cylinders have a barrel for the piston to move in, and an end cap on each end of the barrel, to close the barrel off. The main difference between tie rod and welded body cylinders lies in the end caps.
The Tie Rod Hydraulic Cylinder
A tie rod is an iron rod made to keep two parts from separating. It gets its name because the rod serves as a “tie”, keeping the parts together. In a tie rod cylinder, the end caps are held on by threaded rods made of steel. Depending on the size of the cylinder, anywhere from 4 to 20 tie rods may be used, due to the tremendous force hydraulic pressure can create. A tie rod hydraulic cylinder is designed to be taken apart for rebuilding or repairs. You only need to unthread or unbolt the tie rods.
You can find tie rod cylinders in standard sizes and this can make it easier to find parts. In fact, many parts will interchange and this makes them a cost effective option. Tie rod cylinders see a great deal of use in the agricultural industry.
Welded Hydraulic Cylinders
With welded body cylinders no tie rods are used. In fact, the end caps are welded directly to the cylinder barrel. A front rod gland bolts or threads to the barrel and can be removed to access the piston.
Which is Best?
The type of cylinder you choose depends on the application. For example, welded cylinders take up less room and are perfect for areas where space is a premium. Plus, there is no need to worry about problems with “tie rod stretch” which can sometimes occur, so they are more durable. In addition, if you have the need for custom mount cylinders, the welded body design is the best choice as they can easily be customized to your needs. Whether you choose welded body or tie rod hydraulic cylinder parts, there is a definite need for both in today’s business.
