Which are the 3 ways to extend the return on investment (ROI) in pneumatic cylinders.

 

With the widest and most sophisticated range of pneumatic cylinders in today's market, maximizing ROI in applications is a challenge.

There are many recommendations and tips that plant and machine manufacturers can follow to shorten the recovery period of the investment of pneumatic cylinders. Best practice tips on how engineers can convert required expenses into return investments include:

1. Avoid side-load mounting:-

Since the cylinder is designed to provide a push-pull stroke operation, side-loading assembly can cause a number of performance problems, including misalignment, off-center load, bar deflection, incorrect coupling bar torque or long run operation.

In installation, the cylinder piston rod must be inspected in the extended and retracted positions after it is aligned with the coupling components. Improper alignment results in excessive wear of the stuffing box and cylinder bore, which shortens the life of the cylinder and reduces productivity. All these unwanted effects only serve to prolong the recovery period.

2. Prevent Contamination:-

Also consider anti-pollution methods to further maximize the life of the cylinder. Particles, pipe rust, scale deposits and thread sealant can shorten the life of seals and plug openings and damage surface finishes. Therefore, leave the port plug provided with the cylinder in place until the system is equipped with pipe, and thoroughly clean the pipe before connecting.

Humidity is another key factor to consider when trying to avoid contamination, such as blocking outflow as moisture accumulates in all components of the compressed air system. This can affect the performance of the cylinder, as it can dilute the pre-lubricated grease, contaminate the lubricants of the overhead lines, damage the barrel or rod finishes and freeze in cold climates.

To avoid this situation, use stainless steel cylinders which feature a soft and hygienic exterior design to prevent contamination , This is especially useful for food industry applications, since cleaning is guaranteed through the use of stainless steel piston rods, cylindrical tubes and end caps.

In addition, the end cover has no grooves or other grooves to pick up unnecessary contaminants or bacteria, and the scraper ring, bearings and piston rod seals are made of self-lubricating material, which allows the piston rod to be cleaned and decrease regularly.

The last thing to consider when considering pollution prevention is to be careful with oils caused by the dragging of the air compressor lubrication or synthetic oils that are generally not compatible with the components of the air line. Such oils can inflate the sealing and plug openings. Consider using oil compatible seals instead.

3. Use the appropriate seals and cushioning:-

Incorrectly selected seals will degrade performance, introducing particles and dust, which can cause cylinder failure. Therefore, to ensure maximum life and ensure productivity, it is necessary to choose "suitable for the purpose."

The final application drives the selection of the cleaner seal. For example, dusty or very high operating temperatures require adequate sealing for the installed environment.

In terms of damping, this is directly related to the life of the cylinder. A cushion is needed to decelerate the cylinder piston before it reaches the end plate. The reduction of the piston speed reduces the tension in the cylinder components, which increases its life and ROI.

In the presence of a cylinder with automatic adjustment, it is better to use manual deformation to achieve optimum damping, since the weight of the work piece can be adapted to the dynamics of the movement. This method is much more accurate and efficient.

Cylinders that operate at high or high cycle speeds generally generate significant impact loads at the end of the race. In addition, the heat generated by the system may exceed the temperature limits of the components, which may affect lubrication. With this in mind, choose a pre-lubricated or air cushioned cylinder.

Another option is to add a shock absorber or reduce system pressure through the regulator on the return (not working) side of the cycle. Finally, adding flow control to the cylinder can help unless you need high speed.

As many engineers know, running the cylinder beyond its capacity will place a high level of unwanted tension and friction on the seal, which will break the end of the rod and disassemble the actuator. In addition, if the system includes a speed control or an energy absorber, the pressure peak can be two or three times the normal system pressure. As a result, the engineer must make the bar accessories solid by fully inserting the ends or using spacers or wedges. Or increase the size of the rod thread or use the end of the rod.

There are several best practice procedures that allow plant engineers and machine manufacturers to maximize the return on investment in pneumatic cylinders. In addition, within most budgets, subsequent investments require only minimal time and effort.