How Does a Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinder Work?

A double acting hydraulic cylinder (a.k.a. double acting ram) is a cylinder that contains two ports through which hydraulic fluid can pass.

Basic Principles of a Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinder

A double acting hydraulic cylinder requires hoses for each of its ports. When the hydraulic fluid is pumped into the advance port, the piston rod extends and pushes hydraulic fluid out through the other port. When the operation is reversed the piston retracts.

Due to the double-acting design, the operator can retract and extend the piston under pressure and to the desired length. This ability allows for more precise lifting and lowering and can make lifting heavy machinery more accurate and the process more controlled.

See the image below to view the basic design of a double acting hydraulic cylinder.

Selecting a Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinder<