Small Ram Air Shifter Cylinder

The DME Racing Small air shifter is a double-acting round-body air cylinder actuator with a single rod. Our air cylinders have an excellent ability to provide fast response and rapid movement from the energy of compressed air.

FEATURES

• Designed for 1/8″ air fittings

SPECIFICATIONS

• Main function: Pneumatic cylinder
• Bore size: 1-1/16″
• Stroke length: 2″
• Functions: Double-acting round body air cylinder actuator
• Design: Single rod
• Pressure: 200psi max.
• Connection type:
  • 5/16″-24 UNF-2A male threaded rod-end
  • 2 x 1/8″ NPSF threaded pneumatic ports
• Mounting mode: double-end pivot mounting
• Ambient air temperature for operation: -40 to 160°F
• Material:
  • 304 stainless steel body
  • 303 stainless steel piston rod
  • standard Buna-N seals
  • high tensile strength music wire return springs
  • oil permeated bronze rod bushing
  • Aluminum heads

What is the Purpose of a Pneumatic Cylinder

A pneumatic cylinder, also known as an air cylinder or pneumatic actuator, is a mechanical device that uses compressed air to generate linear motion. It has several important purposes in various industrial and commercial applications:

1. Mechanical Actuation: Pneumatic cylinders are commonly used to move or actuate mechanical components in a controlled and precise manner. They can push, pull, lift, lower, or rotate objects based on the application’s design.
2. Automation: Pneumatic cylinders play a critical role in automation systems. They are used to control and manipulate machinery and equipment, such as conveyor systems, robotic arms, and assembly lines. By controlling the flow of compressed air, they can provide repetitive and consistent motion, making them ideal for automated processes.
3. Force and Motion Control: Pneumatic cylinders can provide a wide range of forces and speeds, depending on the air pressure and cylinder size. This makes them suitable for tasks requiring specific force and motion control, such as clamping, sorting, pushing, and pulling.
4. Reliability: Pneumatic systems are known for their durability and reliability, as they can withstand harsh environmental conditions and require minimal maintenance when properly designed and maintained.
5. Cost-Effective: Pneumatic systems are generally more cost-effective than some alternatives like hydraulic systems, especially for low to medium force applications.

Pneumatic cylinders come in various types, including single-acting and double-acting cylinders, rotary cylinders, and rodless cylinders, each designed for specific applications and motion requirements. Their versatility and reliability make them an essential component in many industrial and commercial settings where controlled linear motion is required.

How does a Pneumatic Cylinder work?

A pneumatic cylinder works by utilizing compressed air to produce linear motion. It consists of a cylindrical barrel, a piston, and end caps, and it operates based on the principles of fluid dynamics. Here’s a basic overview of how a pneumatic cylinder works:

1. Components of a Pneumatic Cylinder:
   • Cylinder Barrel: This is the outer tube of the cylinder where the piston and other components are housed.
   • Piston: A piston is a movable component inside the cylinder barrel. It is sealed to create an airtight chamber within the barrel.
   • End Caps: Each end of the cylinder barrel is sealed with an end cap, which provides mounting and attachment points for the cylinder. One end cap typically has ports for air inlet and outlet.
2. Compressed Air Supply: Compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic cylinder through a hose or tubing connected to the inlet port on one of the end caps. The air is typically provided by a compressor, which pressurizes the air to the desired level.
3. Operation:
   • Single-Acting Cylinder: In a single-acting cylinder, air is supplied to one side of the piston, creating pressure within the cylinder. This pressure forces the piston to move in one direction. A spring or external force is used to return the piston to its original position when the air pressure is released.
   • Double-Acting Cylinder: In a double-acting cylinder, air can be supplied to either side of the piston, causing the piston to move in both directions. When air is supplied to one side, it pushes the piston in one direction, and when air is supplied to the other side, it pushes the piston in the opposite direction. This allows for precise control of linear motion.
4. Linear Motion: The pressurized air exerts force on the piston, causing it to move back and forth within the cylinder barrel. The linear motion of the piston is transferred to the connected load or machinery, allowing for various mechanical actions like pushing, pulling, lifting, or rotating objects.
5. Exhaust: When the piston moves, the air on the opposite side of the piston is often exhausted through an outlet port in the end cap. This release of air allows for the piston to move freely in the opposite direction or to reset when necessary.
6. Control: The movement of the pneumatic cylinder is controlled using valves that regulate the flow of compressed air to the cylinder. By adjusting the air pressure, flow rate, and the timing of air supply, precise control of the cylinder’s motion can be achieved.

Pneumatic cylinders are versatile and widely used in various industrial applications due to their reliability, simplicity, and ease of control. They are essential components in many automated systems, such as manufacturing, robotics, and material handling, where controlled linear motion is required.