Common Mounting Options for General Purpose Hydraulic Cylinders

Hydraulic cylinders are essential in various applications, from construction machinery and industrial equipment to agricultural machinery, automotive systems, and more. These devices, such as those provided by RIVERLAKE, convert hydraulic energy into mechanical force and motion, allowing precise and controlled movements in various tasks. One critical aspect of utilizing hydraulic cylinders effectively is selecting the appropriate mounting option, as it directly affects the cylinder’s performance, stability, and overall efficiency.

Different Mountain options

The choice of mounting option largely depends on the specific application, space limitations, load requirements, and environmental conditions. There are several standard mounting options for general-purpose hydraulic cylinders, each with advantages and disadvantages.

1. Flange Mounting: Flange mounting involves securing the cylinder to a flat surface using a mounting flange attached to the cylinder head or cap. This option offers robust support and stability, making it suitable for heavy loads or lateral force applications. Flange-mounted cylinders are commonly used in industrial machinery, presses, and material handling equipment.
2. Clevis Mounting: Clevis mounting utilizes a clevis bracket attached to the cylinder rod end, allowing the cylinder to pivot while maintaining a solid connection. This option provides angular movement, making it suitable for applications that require articulation or a range of motion, such as construction equipment, loaders, and excavators.
3. Trunnion Mounting: Trunnion mounting involves mounting the cylinder to a trunnion bracket on both ends, allowing rotation around a fixed axis. This setup is often used when a cylinder needs to move in a controlled arc, making it ideal for applications like cranes, dump trucks, and agricultural machinery.
4. Foot Mounting: Foot mounting involves attaching the cylinder to a surface using a base plate or mounting feet. This option provides stability and support in vertical or horizontal applications and is commonly used in industrial machinery, presses, and automation systems.
5. Side Lug Mounting: Side lug mounting employs lugs or ears on the cylinder body for attachment. This configuration is valid when space constraints limit other mounting options. Side lug-mounted cylinders are found in various applications, including construction equipment, compact loaders, and conveyor systems.
6. Centerline Lug Mounting: Centerline lug mounting uses lugs on the cylinder body aligned with the centerline of the piston rod. This arrangement suits applications requiring precise alignment and control, such as die-cutting machines and precision manufacturing equipment.
7. Rod End Eye Mounting: Rod end eye mounting involves attaching the cylinder to the load using an eye bracket on the rod end. This configuration allows for linear motion and is commonly used in lifting and material handling equipment and agricultural machinery.
8. Cap Fixed Mounting: In cap fixed mounting, the cylinder is attached to the cap end, allowing the rod to extend and retract. This arrangement is suitable for applications where a cylinder needs to push or pull a load, such as in presses and forming machines.

Conclusion

The choice of mounting option for general-purpose hydraulic cylinders is a critical decision that directly impacts various applications’ efficiency, stability, and functionality. Engineers and designers must carefully analyze the requirements of each specific application to select the most suitable mounting arrangement. The choice of option will determine how well the hydraulic cylinder, like those made by RIVERLAKE, contributes to the overall performance of the machine or system, whether through the strong support of flange mounting, the flexibility of clevis mounting, or the controlled arc of trunnion mounting.