A guide to hydraulic cylinders and their customisation with RIMA S.p.A.
Hydraulic cylinders are fundamental components in numerous sectors, from construction to agriculture, logistics, and waste management. Their ability to generate linear force and motion through hydraulic fluid pressure makes them essential for various mechanical systems. Let’s take a look at how they work, what types exist, and their main applications.
How hydraulic cylinders work
Hydraulic cylinders function by converting the energy of pressurised fluid into linear mechanical motion. The internal structure includes:
a cylindrical tube (also called a barrel),
a piston that slides inside the tube,
a piston rod connected to the piston and extending outside the cylinder.
Hydraulic fluid is introduced under pressure into the chamber of the cylinder, causing the piston to move. This linear movement generates force that can be used to lift, push or pull loads.
Hydraulic cylinders are part of hydraulic systems, which also include pumps, valves and hoses that regulate the flow and direction of the fluid.
Types of hydraulic cylinders
Hydraulic cylinders are divided into several types depending on their construction and intended use. The most common are:
Single-acting cylinders
These operate in one direction only: hydraulic pressure pushes the piston in one direction, while a spring or external force returns it to its original position. They are ideal where the return movement is not required to be powered.
Double-acting cylinders
These allow force to be exerted in both directions. Hydraulic fluid enters alternately on both sides of the piston, enabling it to extend and retract with the same power. They are more versatile and are used in more demanding applications.
Telescopic cylinders
Also known as multi-stage cylinders, these consist of multiple tubes nested inside one another. They allow for a long extension while occupying minimal space when retracted, making them ideal for use in tipping trucks or compact lifting systems.
Custom cylinders
Hydraulic cylinders can be customised in terms of materials, stroke, pressure, size, and configuration to meet specific customer needs. RIMA S.p.A. offers tailor-made hydraulic cylinders developed in collaboration with OEM customers.
Explore the full range of hydraulic cylinders by RIMA.
Applications of hydraulic cylinders
Hydraulic cylinders are used in various industries thanks to their reliability and power. The main application areas include:
Construction
Used in excavators, bulldozers, cranes and other heavy machinery to lift, dig, and move large quantities of material.
Agriculture
Essential in farming machinery such as tractors, sprayers and harvesters, where they operate lifting systems, steering and mobile arms.
Waste management
Used in compactors, waste containers, and hydraulic lifting equipment to facilitate the handling and transport of refuse.
Logistics
Applied in handling and transport systems such as forklifts, platform lifts and automated equipment for warehouse logistics.
Green economy
An increasingly important area, where hydraulic cylinders are used in renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind plants, and in machines for sustainable land management.
Discover more about the sectors served by RIMA and the custom hydraulic components designed for each application.
Custom hydraulic cylinders: innovation and reliability with RIMA S.p.A.
With decades of experience in the production of customised hydraulic cylinders, RIMA S.p.A. offers:
in-house design and testing;
production with high-performance and quality materials;
personalised consultancy for OEMs and industrial customers;
compliance with the main international safety and performance standards.
Hydraulic cylinders designed by RIMA are synonymous with durability, precision and reliability — essential features for ensuring the best performance of any hydraulic system.
Would you like to learn more about our custom hydraulic cylinders?
Visit our dedicated hydraulic cylinders page to discover the different types available, our know-how, and the advanced technologies we use in production.
Get in touch with us to find the solution that best suits your needs!
