double-acting cylinders with clevis

Double-acting hydraulic cylinders with clevis generate force both during extension and retraction. Two separate chambers in the cylinder are alternately supplied with hydraulic fluid, allowing precise control of piston movement. The clevis – also called swivel eye – serves as a flexible mounting and compensates for angular deviations or torsion.

A double-acting hydraulic cylinder has two ports. When fluid flows into one chamber, the piston moves in one direction while the opposite chamber is relieved. When switching, fluid flows into the other side and the piston retracts. Since the piston rod occupies part of the surface area, the extension force at the same pressure is greater than the retraction force. A directional control valve manages the movement direction.

• Force in both directions of movement
• High control over speed and force development
• Robust and durable thanks to high-quality materials and sealing systems
• Flexibility through clevis for easy installation and compensation of angles

• Cylinder tubes: high-strength steel, e.g. St52-3
• Piston rods: hard-chromed or hardened, low-friction finish
• Clevis mountings: robust steel construction or welded
• Seals: oil- and wear-resistant systems

Typical areas of application include:

• Construction and agricultural machinery (e.g. excavators, plows)
• Manufacturing machines (hydraulic presses, injection molding machines)
• Heavy-duty vehicles (steering systems, suspensions)
• Material handling and machine tools

• Piston diameters: 25–100 mm or more (e.g. 100 mm Ø / 15.5 t thrust force)
• Stroke lengths: 50 mm to several thousand mm
• Clevis eyes: standardized pin diameters, e.g. 25 mm

The choice depends on force requirements, stroke, installation dimensions, and environment.

• Force requirement: calculate piston diameter & pressure (F = P × A)
• Stroke length & installation dimensions: including clevis size
• Operating environment: temperature, corrosion, dirt
• Operating frequency & control: precision of movements
• Speed: depending on pump flow rate
• Safety factors: peak loads, long-term stress

Custom designs are also possible to meet specific requirements.

Key measures for long service life:

• Regular maintenance: check seals, lubricate clevis
• Material quality: high-strength steel, hard-chromed piston rods
• Surface treatments: reduce friction and wear
• Timely replacement of seals and bearings
• Correct selection according to application conditions

With optimal maintenance, high-quality cylinders can operate reliably for decades.