Cylinders in series to rotate a load - Eng-Tips

I need to rotate a load suspended on a shaft. I would like to do so via a chain over a sprocket to turn the shaft. Due to space restraint, I would like to use a cylinder(s) to move the chain and translate linear motion into rotation. I considered a through rod cylinder to be able to rotate in both directions, but I am limited to rod length space. I had this possibly crazy idea of using one cylinder on either end of the chain - I only need 180-degree rotation of the sprocket, and connecting the cylinders in series so they are synchronized. I am mindful that hydraulic cylinder seals are not perfect, also that the cfg of the load could cause a flip-over in push-pull demand on the sprocket. I was thinking these issues could be overcome by fitting counterbalance valves on the in and out ports of the series connected pair, and every time bottoming out full stroke. I am concerned that if the cylinders are not perfectly synchronized chain jump could occur, so I was thinking of fitting a chain guard around the sprocket so the chain could never jump off - at worst it would jam.
Is this a crazy idea, stay away? Has anybody done this before, successfully? All comments are welcome. Good suggestion, I did look at that but the size I need is about double the length of the space I have. I also considered slewing drives but they cannot do the radial loads. That is why I opted for a sprocket and transmission chain - compact in both directions and I can use a bearing setup to carry the radial and axial loads. Another option is a planetary box with a hydraulic motor, which can work but again way too long. What is the load
How accurately does it have to be positioned
Do you care if there is "slop" (backlash) in the mechanism
Is there an overhauling load (gravity, etc)
How fast
How far
Does it need to be capable of stopping mid-stroke and staying put
etc etc etc

A picture is worth a thousand words.

If the particular rotary actuator linked to above won't work, there's a whole bunch of other types with other dimensions.

Chains have to be kept in tension just as hydraulic fluid has to be kept under pressure in order to deliver any useful work. In your proposed arrangement, if you leave the outer ends of the cylinders connected to tank and the directional valve connected to only the inner ends, with metering-out flow controls, that will keep the fluid under pressure and the chain in tension ... unless you have a big enough overhauling load, and you've stopped mid stroke ... and then, what happens depends on a whole bunch of things that you haven't told us.

IMO terrible idea. Find a different rotary actuator that's actually meant for doing this sort of thing. "Not enough space" then go back to whoever assigned the space requirements and say "No". Thanks Jacc, yes I was thinking the same. This application is the same as having one cylinder, except that the rod effectively has an "oil gap", and the issue is how to deal with leakage past the two pistons on either end of the oil gap. I was also thinking of some form of flow resistance between the two pistons. Two check valves, one for each flow direction, would solve the problem, to my thinking. What do you think?
I came in for some flack for not providing a diagram of the application, I do apologize and include that now. Note, I am not asking for alternative solutions, I am merely asking whether or not this particular application is feasible.

Selecting an appropriate hydraulic cylinders is of utmost importance to ensure smooth interactions and processes, especially in industries such as construction, crane manufacture, and road machinery. Hydraulic cylinders facilitate the lifting of great masses, control movement direction, and elaborate the action itself to avoid jerks. In this guide we will explain all of the most essential features and parameters of hydraulic cylinders and their applications, as well as how to select the most suitable alternative.

For more information, please visit DRAKE.

What Are Hydraulic Cylinders?

As mechanical actuators, hydraulic cylinders translate the pressurized hydraulic fluid into linear force and movement. Hence, they are responsible for performing the inverse operation; they take fluid energy and convert it to mechanical motion or force. This type of actuator is essential in any application requiring force to be applied steadily in a single direction of movement. Construction, manufacturing and heavy engineering are industries where these are widely used. The popularity of these devices is due to their durability, reliability and strength.

Types of Hydraulic Cylinders

1. Single-Acting Cylinders
   These cylinders provide force in one direction only, ideal for simpler applications where retraction relies on an external force like gravity.
2. Double-Acting Cylinders
   Commonly used in industries that require both push and pull forces, double-acting cylinders allow fluid pressure on both sides, ensuring better control in both directions.
3. Telescopic Cylinders
   Ideal for applications requiring extended reach, such as crane arms. Compact when retracted, these cylinders can extend to several times their length, perfect for height-related tasks.

Key Considerations for Selecting Hydraulic Cylinders

1. Application-Specific Requirements

Hydraulic cylinders vary in design and functionality based on industry needs:

• Construction Industry: Heavy-duty cylinders are essential for equipment like bulldozers and excavators, which require immense force and endurance.
• Crane Manufacturing: Telescopic and double-acting cylinders are well-suited for cranes, enabling smooth extension and retraction to safely lift and handle heavy loads.
• Road Equipment: Road rollers and compactors depend on hydraulic cylinders that deliver consistent power and withstand high-pressure cycles.

2. Pressure Capacity and Load Handling

Depending on the application, they must withstand specific pressures. BEMCO JACKS’ customized cylinders, for instance, offer a working pressure of up to 350 bar, making them a reliable choice for high-performance applications.

3. Stroke Length and Cylinder Size

The stroke length is essential for certain applications. For example, long-stroke cylinders are ideal for cranes that require significant extension capabilities. We offer hydraulic cylinders with strokes up to mm to meet these needs.

4. Build Quality and Material Selection

They should be built with high-quality materials to endure challenging environments. Our cylinders are manufactured for durability, ensuring optimal performance under harsh conditions.

BEMCO JACKS: India’s Trusted Source for Hydraulic Solutions

BEMCO JACKS, located in Belgaum, Karnataka, is a leading Hydraulic Jack Manufacturers in India. We specialize in providing hydraulic solutions for industries such as construction, defense, railways, and heavy engineering. Our product range includes customized hydraulic cylinders designed to meet various industrial needs.

For more information, please visit rotating hydraulic cylinder.

Customised Hydraulic Cylinders: Applications and Benefits

BEMCO JACKS offers customized hydraulic cylinders tailored for demanding industrial applications, each designed to meet the unique challenges of the industry.

Uses in Construction, Steel, and Cement Plants

Our customized hydraulic cylinders are trusted in construction and heavy industries due to their strength, precision, and durability. Their applications include:

• Heavy Lifting: These cylinders provide the high-power lifting capability required in steel and cement plants, where heavy equipment and materials are constantly moved.

• Pressing and Compacting: In construction and material handling, Bemco’s cylinders are frequently used in compactors and press applications to achieve controlled, powerful force.

• Excavation and Earthmoving: The precision and power of our cylinders make them a preferred choice for heavy-duty excavators and bulldozers, ensuring smooth, controlled movement.

Crane Manufacturing and Custom Lifting Solutions

These are critical in cranes and lifting systems, where they ensure safe handling and effective control over heavy loads:

• Arm Extension and Retraction: Telescopic and double-acting cylinders enable cranes to reach considerable heights and retract as required, supporting both lifting and maneuvering heavy loads.

• Load Holding and Safety Features: Over-center valves and load-holding options allow for secure lifting, ensuring loads remain safely in place.

Road Equipment and Machinery

In road construction, customized hydraulic cylinders deliver consistency and endurance:

• Road Rollers and Compactors: They are fundamental in compacting machinery, ensuring effective pressure distribution to create smooth, stable surfaces.

• Material Loading and Unloading: For machinery involved in transporting and unloading materials, these cylinders provide the precise control needed to handle diverse payloads effectively.

Features of Our Customised Hydraulic Cylinders

Our hydraulic cylinders stand out due to their advanced engineering and durability:

• Working Pressure: Up to 350 bar, suitable for heavy-duty applications.

• Stroke Length: Up to mm for applications requiring extended reach.

• Body Diameter: Up to 600 mm, allowing them to handle large loads.

• Additional Features: Equipped with over-center valves, load-holding options, and load-bearing features designed per IS:: standards or customer specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are hydraulic cylinders?
They are actuators that convert fluid power into linear force, commonly used in heavy equipment and machinery to control movement and apply force.

2. What are cylinders used for?
They are used in various applications requiring lifting, pressing, compacting, and controlling linear movement, particularly in heavy industries like construction, road building, and crane manufacturing.

3. What is the main use of hydraulic cylinders?
The primary use of it is to provide controlled, linear force in equipment and machinery where precise movement and heavy load management are essential.

Conclusion:

Trust us for High-Quality Hydraulic Cylinders Selecting the appropriate hydraulic cylinder may significantly influence the safety, operation, and life cycle of the machinery. BEMCO JACKS provides sturdy, controlled, and durable hydraulic cylinders, made to international standards, which can be tailored for the construction, crane manufacturing, and road equipment industries.

When it comes to BEMCO JACKS, you can be sure of products that are built to your specifications. Contact us today to learn about our hydraulic solutions and any of the details about the hydraulic equipment we have that is available to meet your requirements.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of China Collet Chuck. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.