Clamping cylinder

Clamping Cylinder

The clamping cylinder is an essential component of automation and machining systems. Used to hold or block parts during loading, drilling, or milling operations, it ensures stable and precise clamping.

Using pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, the piston exerts a controlled force that securely holds the elements without damaging the contact surfaces. These devices are often employed in mass production environments, where repeatability and speed of execution are crucial.

At Rubix, each clamping cylinder is selected to provide:

High reliability
Impeccable manufacturing quality
Perfect compatibility with your existing equipment

Their compact design allows for easy integration into restricted work areas while ensuring stable and durable operation.

Different Types of Clamping Cylinders and Their Applications

Clamping cylinders come in several types depending on the mode of action and the required clamping force. The main distinctions are:

Pneumatic cylinders, operating on compressed air, lightweight and fast, ideal for repetitive loading or automated assembly operations.
Hydraulic cylinders, capable of generating higher clamping forces, perfect for demanding environments requiring constant pressure holding of parts.

Some models feature a pivoting arm, allowing a 90° rotation before the clamping phase. This movement:

Facilitates access to the work area
Optimises the loading of parts
Prevents interference with the operator

Other simpler versions maintain a fixed position for direct clamping.

These clamping cylinders are used in numerous industrial sectors:

Precision mechanics
Tooling
Machining
Automotive industry
Plastic industry

Their adaptability makes them an essential component in:

Handling stations
Assembly stations
Quality control stations

Advantages and Technical Performance

Clamping cylinders combine:

Reliability
Power
Precision

to ensure optimal holding in all work situations.

Thanks to their compact design and compatibility with numerous accessories, they easily integrate into any production station.

Some models include:

A spring return
Controlled pressure operation for automatic adaptation to the part being held

Designed to withstand high stresses, these cylinders guarantee a long service life due to reinforced internal components:

Piston
Rod
High-strength seals

Their construction from steel or technical alloys ensures durable protection against:

Corrosion
Impacts

Good to know: some models even incorporate a complete CAD interface, allowing for quick configuration and optimised integration into your automated production systems.

Standards and Standardisation

Clamping cylinders comply with international standards ensuring their compatibility and safety for use in industrial environments. These standards define:

Dimensions
Mounting interfaces
Permissible pressure levels
Quality requirements for components

The main references are:

ISO 15552 (replacing the old ISO 6431 / VDMA 24562): this standard governs standardised series pneumatic cylinders and ensures their interchangeability. Although it does not directly apply to most specific clamping cylinders, it is fundamental for linear actuator systems and ensures simple integration into any automated system.
ISO 6020/2 and ISO 6022: these standards concern hydraulic cylinders used in high-pressure environments, particularly for clamping or intensive holding applications.
ISO 21287: it applies to compact cylinders, commonly found in loading and assembly stations requiring reduced footprint.

At Rubix, clamping cylinders are selected according to the applicable standards for their category, ensuring:

A high level of safety
Compatibility
Performance in the most demanding environments

Rubix Brands and Reliability

Rubix relies on the most recognised brands in the industry to offer high-performing and durable clamping cylinders suitable for all industrial environments.

Festo: a specialist in pneumatic systems, Festo designs highly precise clamping cylinders with smooth pivoting and stable clamping. Their pneumatic design provides controlled force, ideal for rapid clamping of parts in automated environments.
SMC: a global leader in pneumatics, SMC develops compact and standard ranges, incorporating a high-performance piston and excellent pressure resistance. These models are designed for:
- Quick installation
- Simplified maintenance
- Reliable operation, even under intensive use

Through these partnerships, Rubix provides a comprehensive catalogue of compatible cylinders and accessories.

Here are our other related category pages

Discover the clamping cylinders available at Rubix and equip your workstations with: