Measure a Hydraulic Cylinder

<p>When it comes to replacing hydraulic cylinders, accurate measurement and sizing are crucial to prevent issues that may arise during the replacement process. In this guide, we will explore how to measure a hydraulic cylinder using simple tools.</p> <h3>Key Measurements for Hydraulic Cylinders</h3> <p>To measure <a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/cylinder-parts/cylinder-components">hydraulic cylinder components</a> accurately, You will need to focus on key measurements and use tools such as a tape measure and <a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/associated-products/measuring-equipment-1/verniers">vernier</a> callipers.</p> <h4>Primary Components for Hydraulic Cylinder Measurement</h4> <ul><li>Retracted hydraulic cylinder length: When the cylinder is full retracted, (Closed Centres) measure from the centre of the rod pin to centre of the cylinder pin.</li><li>Extended hydraulic cylinder length: When the cylinder is fully extended, (Open Centres) measure from the centre of the rod pin to centre of the cylinder pin.</li><li>Stroke length: Measure the extended length of the hydraulic cylinder minus the retracted length.</li><li>Bore diameter: Measure the outside diameter of the cylinder and subtract the wall thickness of the tubing. Standard bore sizes range from 25mm to 125mm bore diameters.</li><li>Rod diameter: This measurement is mainly done with callipers.</li><li>Cylinder pin size</li><li>Rod mount pin size</li><li>Base and rod mount dimensions</li><li>Determine port size and style.</li></ul> <p>It is important to understand which type of hydraulic cylinder you are replacing, whether it is Single acting, Double acting or Displacement, to ensure an accurate cylinder replacement.</p> <figure class="image-center" style="max-width: 642px;"><img src="/uploads/images/New Product Range mechanical .png" data-image="New Product Range mechanical .png" width="642" height="336" alt="How to measure hydraulic cylinder"></figure> <h3>Check Out Our Hydraulic Cylinder Measurement Guide<br></h3> <p>Watch our video which demonstrates how to measure a <a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/how-to/how-to-measure-a-hydraulic-cylinder">Hydraulic Cylinder</a></p> <figure><iframe style="width: 500px; height: 281px;" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/VXJ6Oj1CjCc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure> <p>FPE Seals offers a comprehensive range of replacement <a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/cylinder-parts/cylinder-parts-kits">hydraulic cylinders kits</a>, metal parts, seals, and accessory parts. For expert guidance with your cylinder design or choosing the replacement parts you need, contact our knowledgeable team today.</p> <p><a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/contact" class="button medium">CONTACT US</a></p>

What Safety Precautions Should You Take When Working with Hydraulic Cylinders?

<p>Hydraulic cylinders are used for various tasks that involve pulling, lifting, bending, or holding. With so many ways they can be used, comes a lot that can go wrong. </p> <figure class="image-right" style="max-width: 390px;"><img src="/uploads/images/safety tips (2).png" data-image="safety tips (2).png" width="390" height="976"></figure> <h4>To avoid the risk of harm while using such cylinders, there are many safety precautions you need to consider.</h4> <p><strong>80% Rule</strong></p> <p>When it comes to setting up an optimal hydraulic system, your primary concern should always revolve around safety, both for yourself and others involved. When using hydraulic cylinders, it is advisable to limit usage to only 80% of the load and stroke ratings, as most loads are not lifted on their true centre, which introduces an external side load force and increases the risk of load instability.</p> <p><strong>Provide Support</strong></p> <p>For a cylinder to operate safely and efficiently, it necessitates to operate on a firm and level base. This implies that the cylinder's operation should be placed flat on the ground, i.e. stabilizer legs or outrigger on a crane. It's crucial to ensure that the surface beneath the cylinder is free from any debris. If you have any doubts about the stability of the surface, it's recommended to employ a base plate for added stability.</p> <p><strong>Pressure Gauge</strong></p> <p>A pressure gauge is a vital component of any hydraulic system. Using a pressure gauge helps to monitor the force applied on the cylinder within the reasonable margin of safety. This is not only important for safety, but it is also necessary for maintaining the quality of your equipment.</p> <p><strong>Cylinder Condition</strong></p> <p>Before using a hydraulic ram cylinder, it's crucial to inspect it for signs of damage. If any damage is detected, the cylinder may not function properly and should not be used. There are various reasons why a cylinder might not work correctly which could cause system failure that leads to safety hazards and injury.</p> <h4>Reasons why a cylinder may not function properly:</h4> <ul> <li>A cylinder will not extend if the coupler is not fully tightened, the pump is worn, the oil level is too low, the pump is malfunctioning, or the pump pressure relief valve is set too low. Additionally, if the cylinder is already at full stroke, it will not extend further.</li> <li>If a cylinder only extends partially, this may be due to insufficient oil capacity or an external obstruction or bent rod.</li> <li>When a cylinder does not extend smoothly, it could be due to air in the system.</li> <li>If a cylinder extends but cannot hold the load, it may be due to leaking seals, a malfunctioning pump or valve, or a leaking connection.</li> <li>Cylinder leakage may occur due to cylinder or seal damage or a loose connecter.</li> <li>Cylinders may be slow to retract or not retract at all, this can be caused by a loose piston seal carrier or damaged piston seals, or worn hydraulic pump.</li> </ul> <h3>Replacing hydraulic cylinder seals and parts</h3> <p>FPE Seals provide <a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/cylinder-parts">replacement parts</a> for all hydraulic cylinders and specialise in providing sealing solutions for aftermarket and OEM applications. View what is on offer on our website or contact one of our knowledgeable team today who are happy to advise on finding you exactly what you need.</p> <p><a href="https://www.fpeseals.com/contact" class="button medium">CONTACT US</a></p>

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What are hydraulic hand pumps used for?

Hydraulic hand pumps are commonly used to load and test machinery components, as well as in handling machinery for raising and lowering heavy objects. By operating the hand lever, users can create pressure, enabling the lifting, pushing, or bending of heavy objects with ease.

Types of Hydraulic Handpumps

There are two types of hydraulic hand pumps:

Single Acting Hand Pumps	Double Acting Hand Pumps
Supplies a single flow in a dual-action hand pump.	Supplies a single flow in a dual action hand pump, fitted with an additional lever to divert the flow.
Simple in design and easier to maintain.	More complicated to maintain and repair
Commonly used in hydraulic jacks.	Used in a wider range of applications, including aircraft hydraulic systems.
More strokes are needed to generate the pressure and movement	Less strokes are needed to generate the pressure compared to single acting hand pump
Slower in operation.	Preferred for speed and efficiency

Applications of Hydraulic Handpumps

Hydraulic Systems Testing: Hydraulic hand pumps are frequently employed to test and troubleshoot hydraulic systems. They enable manual pressurisation of the system, facilitating leak detection and evaluation of overall system performance.

Hydraulic Jacks: Used to operate hydraulic jacks, which are widely employed for lifting heavy loads or vehicles. By operating the hand pump, hydraulic pressure is generated, causing the jack to extend and elevate the load.

Hydraulic Tools: Provide the necessary pressure to operate hydraulic tools, including crimpers, cutters, and presses. These tools find applications in sectors such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing, where manual operation is required.

Agricultural Machinery: Powers hydraulic systems in agricultural machinery such as tractors & loaders. They enable manual operation of hydraulic functions, including lifting and tilting attachments or adjusting hydraulic system pressure.

Laboratory and Testing Equipment: Used in laboratories and testing facilities for various purposes, such as calibrating pressure gauges, testing pressure sensors, and conducting experiments requiring controlled hydraulic pressure.

Marine and Offshore Applications: Utilised in marine and offshore environments for tasks such as operating hydraulic steering systems, lifting heavy equipment, or controlling hydraulic winches and cranes.

FPE Seals offers a range of hydraulic handpumps including single acting hand pumps, double acting handpumps & stand-alone handpumps with various capacities. If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to get in touch with our knowledgeable team for further advice and information about our products, including a full range of hydraulic ram components.