Pneumatic cylinders and actuators

Pneumatic cylinders are used to generate linear movements and transmit forces. Available in different sizes and versions, they are distinguished by their simple installation and robustness. Discover the actuators selected by Rubix from leading brands (Festo, SMC, Norgren, Mecaline, Matara, Camozzi & Aventics).

Pneumatic cylinders: characteristics and applications
A pneumatic cylinder is an actuator that takes the form of a cylindrical tube (enclosed or not in a housing). Its operation is simple: it converts the energy of compressed air into mechanical energy to create a linear or rotary movement.

Pneumatic cylinders are used in many industrial automation processes, where they play an essential role. They are indispensable in material transport systems, in the construction of machines and equipment, and in robotics. They are also key components in the packaging industry, medical equipment, food processing and automotive manufacturing. Since they use compressed air, rather than oil as hydraulic cylinders do, they are required in clean environments.

The different types of pneumatic cylinders
Pneumatic cylinders are divided into two main categories: single-acting and double-acting actuators.

• A single-acting pneumatic cylinder uses compressed air to drive the piston in one direction. The piston is then returned to its initial position by a spring.
• A double-acting pneumatic cylinder uses compressed air to drive the piston in both directions, allowing full control of piston movement.

The Rubix selection and brands
The Rubix range of pneumatic cylinders and actuators covers all areas and includes products from several world-renowned manufacturers (Festo, SMC, Norgren, Mecaline, Matara, Camozzi, Aventics...).

Compact pneumatic cylinders
Compact pneumatic cylinders are smaller than standard actuators. They can be used in a wide range of industrial applications where space is limited.

They feature piston diameters ranging from 2.5 mm to 150 mm. For example, the Festo ADN compact pneumatic cylinder

Standardised pneumatic cylinders
Standardised pneumatic cylinders are designed according to specific dimensions and designs (cylinder diameter, threading of pneumatic connections, standardised seals...).

They are therefore interchangeable between manufacturers. Rubix offers standardised cylinders such as ISO 6432 models, like the SMC C85 pneumatic cylinder, as well as ISO 15552 such as the Festo DSBC range

Rod pneumatic cylinders
Rod pneumatic cylinders consist of a rod attached to a piston. They perform linear movements and can be compact, round, tie-rod, with integrated magnetic detection...

Rotary pneumatic cylinders
Rotary or oscillating pneumatic cylinders provide rotary movements up to a defined pivoting angle of up to 270°. They may include a rotary vane or a rack-and-pinion actuator.

Clamping pneumatic cylinders
Clamping pneumatic cylinders hold a workpiece in place using a pneumatically driven clamping element or via kinematics. They can be rotary or articulated. These cylinders clamp and secure workpieces during machining to ensure precise work.

Locking pneumatic cylinders
Locking pneumatic cylinders stop the movement of machines or workpiece holders on transport systems.

Rodless pneumatic cylinders
Rodless pneumatic cylinders move the load along the piston instead of using the piston itself to push or pull it. Compact, they are characterised by their ability to perform linear movements over long strokes. They are particularly used for handling, lifting or loading light workpieces.

How to choose a pneumatic cylinder?
To select a suitable pneumatic cylinder, it is important to consider various factors, including:
• force;
• stroke length (the distance the piston can travel in one direction);
• cushioning;
• mounting style;
• dimensions;
• ISO standards.
• Environment

What are the advantages of pneumatic cylinders?
Pneumatic cylinders offer many advantages. They are simple to use and install. They are also an economical solution for moving loads linearly. In addition, they can achieve significant speeds between 10 mm/s and 3 m/s and operate within a wide temperature range from -20°C to +80°C.

Finally, these actuators are distinguished by their performance and robust design.

Compact, rod, clamping or rotary, our single-acting or double-acting pneumatic cylinders cover a wide range of applications. They allow linear or rotary movement to be created from compressed air. Strong and easy to install, they are mainly used in automation systems.

Pneumatic cylinder nose seals
Rubix offers pneumatic cylinders with a variety of nose seal options from all of our core manufacturers, tailored for different applications and operating conditions. Nose seals help protect the cylinder’s internal components from dust, dirt, and other contaminants, improving reliability and extending service life.

They are ideal for high-cycle automation, food and beverage production, cleanroom environments, and general industrial use where maintaining performance and reducing maintenance is critical. By selecting the right nose seal for the application, Rubix helps customers optimise cylinder longevity, reduce downtime, and ensure consistent operation, providing a complete solution rather than just a component.

Also discover our range of accessories for pneumatic cylinders and actuators.