Miniature Air Cylinders And Pneumatics
Miniature air cylinders, also referred to in some cases as micro-cylinders, are small, rectangular, single-acting air cylinders in which the springs are housed inside enlarged piston rods. Miniature air cylinders – used to store compressed air – can be pneumatic linear actuators that function as normal single acting pneumatic cylinders, just on a much smaller scale. However, the primary function of any air cylinder – miniature or otherwise – is to store compressed air. The pressure created by the storage of compressed air can then be manipulated to perform work, leading to their use in pneumatics.
Miniature Cylinders As Pneumatic Cylinders
Miniature air cylinders when used as pneumatic cylinders are driven by a pressure differential in the cylinder's chambers. Pneumatics, which is basically the use of pressurized air to do work, is just one of the functions of the air cylinder. Depending on their function, pneumatic cylinders can vary in appearance, size and function, but will generally either be single acting cylinders, double acting rotary air cylinders or rodless air cylinders. Mini air cylinders however, are only comprised of single acting cylinders. Single acting cylinders (SAC) use the pressure imparted by compressed air to create a driving force in one direction (usually out), and a spring to return to the "home" position.
Air Cylinder Sizes
Air cylinders are designed in a variety of sizes from very small, such 2.5 mm air cylinder, which might be used for picking up a small transistor or other electronic component all the way through to specialized pneumatic cylinders which can reach up to 1,000 mm in diameter. Very large air cylinders like the one that is 1,000 mm in diameter can be used to replace hydraulic cylinders, where extremely hazardous leaking hydraulic oil is being leaked.
Miniature air cylinders
- operate in reverse motion
- are easy to install
- offer a range of interchangeable mounting brackets which attach to the cylinder ends to provide versatility and adaptability
- can be powered by plant air
A specific example of a miniature air cylinder is the compact air cylinder, which is available in round as well as square body styles. It is specifically designed for use in a variety of applications where intricate processes need to take place in a relatively small sized area. Air cylinder housing is formed from precision machined aluminium due to the dangers evident in an environment where compressed air is stored.
Compact Air Cylinders Takes Up Less Space
Compact air cylinders offer the same force output as larger cylinders while taking up less space. It is still important to keep compressed air safety guidelines in mind when working with these smaller units. Their small size and flexible mounting options make compact air cylinders ideal for small automation equipment. Some low-profile cylinders are available with flat machined sides and threaded-hole mounts for easy, accurate mounting.
Despite their small size, compact air cylinders are still able to have magnetic position sensing switches mounted to them. An example of a miniature air cylinder of this kind would comprise of the following parameters: 250 psi air, 500 psi hydraulic (125psi on ½" bore); Compact size and lightweight; Pre-lubricated with silicone paste; High grade anodized aluminium frame; Precision ground, roller-burnished stainless steel rod. Miniature air cylinders have come to stay, and in many industries one can't imagine normal day to day processes without these cylinders.
