Cylinder with piston rod

The rod cylinder is a central element of compressed air systems, used to convert pneumatic pressure into linear motion. This component allows for the actuation, pushing, or lifting of loads with great precision, according to the needs of your industrial installation.

Present in numerous fields - automation, handling, assembly, or robotics - the rod cylinder stands out for its reliability and versatility. It comes in various designs: compact, flat, or with varying dimensions, to adapt to all production environments.

At Rubix, we offer a comprehensive range of rod cylinders designed to provide performance, quality, and longevity. Manufactured from robust materials such as steel and featuring excellent sealing, our models possess high reliability, even in the most demanding conditions.

What is a rod cylinder and how does it work?

The rod cylinder is a mechanical device that converts compressed air energy into linear motion. It consists of a piston, a rod, and a sealing element that ensures proper pressure distribution. Air, introduced through an orifice, acts on the surface of the piston to produce a translational force.

There are two main families of cylinders:

• The single-acting cylinder, where pressure acts in one direction only, with return achieved through a spring or gravity.
• The double-acting cylinder, which uses air pressure in both directions of the cycle, allowing for more precise control of movement and applied force.

Advantages of rod cylinders in industry

Rod cylinders are highly valued in industrial environments for their versatility and reliability. Designed to operate under pressure, they generate a stable linear force, capable of moving or holding significant loads with precision.

Available in different versions, they easily adapt to all machine configurations. Their robust design, often made of steel with a chrome-plated rod, ensures excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.

Their enhanced sealing, provided by high-quality seals, allows for reliable operation in demanding conditions, even in the presence of dust or pressure variations. These features improve the lifespan of the cylinder and reduce maintenance operations.

Selection criteria and available configurations

Choosing the right rod cylinder depends on several technical parameters that must be considered before integration into a pneumatic system. The force developed by the piston directly depends on the applied compressed air pressure, expressed in bar.

The dimensions of the cylinder, its spacing, and its type of mounting determine compatibility with the part to be actuated. The diameter of the piston and the stroke also influence the speed and power of the movement.

Good to know: Rubix offers a complete range of rod cylinders, available in compact, flat, or reinforced models, designed to withstand extreme conditions.

Materials and technical performance

Rod cylinders are made from robust materials, selected to ensure high pressure resistance and optimal durability. The bodies are generally designed from anodised aluminium or treated steel, while chrome-plated rods provide excellent protection against wear and corrosion.

The sealing elements ensure the reliability of the system and prevent any leakage of compressed air, even in the most demanding operating conditions. This design allows for smooth movement and constant force while reducing energy losses.

Some compact or flat models are designed for tight spaces without compromising power. They offer an optimal balance between dimensions, weight, and performance.

The quality of manufacturing, combined with careful design of the piston, orifices, and seals, ensures a high level of operation and long-term reliability.

Standards and standardisation of rod cylinders

Rod cylinders are designed according to international standards that guarantee their compatibility, interchangeability, and reliability in industrial installations. These standards facilitate the assembly, maintenance, and replacement of components while ensuring a high level of quality and safety.

Among the most common:

• ISO 15552 (formerly ISO 6431 / VDMA 24562): defines the main dimensions, mountings, and compatible accessories for standard pneumatic cylinders.
• ISO 21287: specific to compact cylinders, widely used in machines where space is limited.

Compliance with these standards ensures safe, durable products that are compatible with the majority of equipment on the market.

At Rubix, rod cylinders comply with the applicable standards for their category, ensuring optimal compatibility and reliable operation in all industrial environments.

Brands and reliability at Rubix

Rubix relies on the most recognised brands in the market to offer reliable, high-performance, and durable rod cylinders. These manufacturers combine innovation, technological expertise, and industrial experience to meet the needs of professionals.

• Festo: a global reference in the field of pneumatics, Festo designs high-precision double-acting cylinders. Their robust design ensures excellent sealing and pressure resistance even in harsh environments.
• SMC: a specialist in compressed air systems, SMC develops compact and lightweight models, perfect for automated machines and environments with limited space. Their chrome-plated rods and high-quality seals ensure smooth and consistent operation.
• Aventics: a recognised expert in pneumatic technologies, Aventics offers rod cylinders designed to support high loads and resist wear. Their reliable design allows for durable use and simple maintenance, tailored to the needs of industrial production.

Thanks to these partnerships, Rubix offers a complete range of rod cylinders, designed to meet all requirements for pressure, force, and movement precision.

Here are our other related categories:

• Pneumatic components
• Pneumatic cylinders and actuators
• Standard pneumatic cylinder
• Compact cylinder
• Pneumatic cylinders and actuators - Accessories

Discover the rod cylinders available at Rubix, and choose high-performance, sealed, and reliable solutions designed to enhance the precision and productivity of your compressed air systems!