Pneumatic cylinder

How it is used

Very common in automation because it is cheap and fast. A cylinder extends and retracts; it can be single-acting or double-acting, and magnetic sensors on the body confirm when it is fully out or in. Shop-floor English often just says 'the cylinder'.

Example sentences

1. The pneumatic cylinder isn't fully extending; check the air pressure and the flow control valve.

2. Each fixture has two pneumatic cylinders that clamp the part before welding.

Common collocations

• double-acting cylinder
• extend the cylinder
• cylinder stroke
• cylinder sensor
• air pressure

Related terms

• solenoid valveA valve that is opened or switched by an electric coil to control the flow of air or liquid. In pneumatics it sends air to one side of a cylinder or the other.
• actuatorA component that turns energy, such as electricity, compressed air or hydraulic oil, into movement. Motors and pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders are typical actuators.
• gripperA type of end effector that picks up, holds and releases parts, usually with two or three fingers or jaws that open and close. It is driven by compressed air or an electric motor.
• fixtureA device that holds a part in an exact, repeatable position while a robot or machine works on it, for example during welding, machining or assembly.
• proximity sensorA sensor that detects an object near it without touching it. Inductive types detect metal; capacitive types also detect plastic, wood or liquids.

More terms: Sensors, Motors and Actuators

• sensor
• servo motor
• encoder
• limit switch
• stepper motor
• photoelectric sensor
• variable frequency drive