Pneumatic Cylinders
Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Types | Single acting, double acting, compact, rodless, guided |
| Bore sizes | 6mm to 320mm |
| Pressures | 1 to 10 bar |
| Standards | ISO 6431 (tie rod), ISO 21287 (compact) |
| Brands | SMC, Festo, Parker, Norgren |
What are Pneumatic Cylinders?
Pneumatic cylinders convert compressed air into linear motion and force to move mechanical loads. They're widely used in automation and manufacturing due to their reliability and ease of maintenance.Types and variants
Pneumatic cylinders come in various types, each suited for specific applications:- Single Acting: These have one port that supplies air pressure to extend the piston rod while a spring returns it.
- Double Acting: Both extension and retraction are driven by air pressure, providing more control over movement.
- Compact Cylinders: Designed with reduced dimensions for space-constrained environments. They adhere to ISO 21287 standards.
- Rodless Cylinders: Move without a piston rod extending out the side of the cylinder body. Ideal for applications requiring long strokes in tight spaces.
- Guided Cylinders: Incorporate guide rods or bushings to ensure smooth linear motion and reduce wear.
Materials and specifications
Pneumatic cylinders are made from materials like stainless steel (e.g., A2-70), carbon steel (EN8), aluminium, and plastic. They adhere to international standards such as ISO 6431 for tie rod cylinders and ISO 21287 for compact cylinders.Common specifications include bore sizes ranging from 6mm to 320mm and operating pressures between 1 bar and 10 bar. Temperature ranges typically span -20°C to +80°C, though some models can handle temperatures up to +120°C.
Selection criteria
Choosing the right pneumatic cylinder involves several factors:- Bore Size: Determines the force available at a given pressure.
- Stroke Length: The distance between end-of-stroke positions.
- Pressure Rating: Ensure it matches your system's operating pressure.
- Material Grade: Choose based on environmental conditions and durability requirements.
UK suppliers
MLC lists verified Pneumatic Cylinder suppliers from Companies House. Top brands include SMC, Festo, Parker, and Norgren, which are widely trusted by engineers across the UK for their high-quality products.Common applications
Pneumatic cylinders find use in a variety of industries:- Automotive: For assembly lines and robotic systems.
- Food & Beverage: Suitable for handling food without contaminating it due to stainless steel construction.
- Pharmaceutical: Used in filling machines and packaging equipment.
- Packaging: In conveyor systems and automated packaging machinery.
Pneumatic cylinders are key in industrial automation, offering precise control at relatively low cost compared to electrical actuators. They're also safer for operators as they don't require high-voltage electricity.
References
Verified UK Suppliers
| Company | Company No. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpe Hydraulic Services Ltd | 07686672 | 78 Helme Lane, Meltham, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, |
| Yiheng Dexuan Co., Limited | 14892771 | 69 Aberdeen Avenue, Cambridge, CB2 8DL |
| Mist-Air Dust Suppression Limited | 01228824 | Hillcrest, Penybont, Oswestry, SY10 9JF |
| Thermal Engineering International Uk Limited | 14356464 | C/O Tmf Group, 13th Floor, One Angel Court, London |
| Gravloc Uk Limited | 06456336 | Unit E Sir Alfred Owen Way, Pontygwindy Industrial |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pneumatic Cylinders?
Pneumatic Cylinders are engineering components used in industrial applications. Browse verified UK suppliers on MLC.
Where can I buy Pneumatic Cylinders in the UK?
MLC lists verified UK pneumatic cylinders suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are pneumatic cylinders used for in manufacturing?
Pneumatic cylinders convert compressed air into linear motion and force to move mechanical loads, making them ideal for automation and manufacturing applications where reliability and ease of maintenance are important.
How do single acting and double acting pneumatic cylinders differ?
Single acting pneumatic cylinders use one port for extending the piston rod with air pressure and a spring to retract it. Double acting cylinders extend and retract using air pressure on both sides, providing more precise control over movement.
What are compact pneumatic cylinders, and where are they typically used?
Compact pneumatic cylinders are designed for space-constrained environments, adhering to ISO 21287 standards. They offer a reduced profile while maintaining strong performance, making them suitable for tight spaces in automation systems.
Why should I consider rodless pneumatic cylinders for my application?
Rodless pneumatic cylinders move along their length without a protruding piston rod, which makes them ideal for applications requiring precise positioning and load carrying over long distances within confined areas.
Which standards do pneumatic cylinders follow in the UK?
Pneumatic cylinders in the UK adhere to international standards such as ISO 6431 (tie rod) and ISO 21287 (compact), ensuring compatibility and performance across different manufacturers.
What are some leading brands of pneumatic cylinders available in the UK?
Leading brands of pneumatic cylinders in the UK include SMC, Festo, Parker, and Norgren. These companies offer a wide range of products that meet various industrial needs.
How do I choose the right bore size for my pneumatic cylinder application?
When selecting a pneumatic cylinder, consider the required force output and stroke length to determine the appropriate bore size, which ranges from 6mm to 320mm. Smaller bores are suitable for lighter loads, while larger ones handle heavier applications.
What factors should I consider when assessing the cost and availability of pneumatic cylinders?
Cost and availability depend on specific requirements such as bore size (from 6mm to 320mm), pressure range (1 to 10 bar), type (single acting, double acting), and brand. Consulting with suppliers like SMC, Festo, Parker, and Norgren can help find the best balance of price and stock availability for your needs.