Question

What causes side loading in hydraulic cylinders.

How can it be minimized.

Answer 1

Hydraulic cylinders are made to handle high loads in rugged conditions. These get fall in permanent failure mainly because of side loads and rod bending.

Causes of side loading:

1) Mass or external force applys on the side of cylinder rods.

2) High potential side loading acts when the cylinder rod extends into it's max stroke length, especially for cylinders with long stroke length.

3) undersized rod cause side loads and tends to bend the rod.

Precautions to minimize the side loads:

* Minimize misalignment during extended and retracted points of cylinder rod.

* Ensure the rod is guiding properly with the supports.

* Insert the stopper to prevent the rod to extend completely.

* Use larger diameter rods.