What are compact pneumatic cylinders and how do they work? 
  Compact  pneumatic cylinders are precision-engineered actuators that use compressed air  to generate linear motion within a reduced footprint, making them ideal for  high-performance automation in confined spaces. Designed for applications with  strict space constraints, short-stroke cylinders ensure efficient and reliable  motion control. Their lightweight design, compact dimensions, and robust  construction make them essential in scenarios requiring both efficiency and  durability.
  SMC’s range  of compact cylinders, including the CQ2, JCQ, and C55 series, offers  unparalleled versatility. For instance, the CQ2 series is a versatile  all-rounder with options for long strokes and customisable bore sizes. The JCQ  series further enhances productivity with its ultra-lightweight design, while  the C55 series complies with ISO 21287 standards, ensuring seamless integration  into global systems.
Types of compact pneumatic cylinders 
  ISO compact cylinders 
  Designed to meet ISO 21287 standards, these space-saving cylinders  provide consistent performance and compatibility with global systems. They are  commonly used in industries such as packaging, automation, and food processing.
  They offer benefits such as:
  - Standardised dimensions for easy integration
   - Robust construction suitable for  various industrial environments.
 
Example Product: The SMC C55 Series offers excellent ISO compatibility  with a wide range of stroke options.
Compact cylinders with pre-mounted valves
  These space-saving cylinders include pre-mounted valves to simplify  pneumatic system designs and reduce installation time. The main benefits  include:
  - Space-saving integrated valve design  minimises piping complexity
   - Streamlined connections for  efficient operation.
 
Example Product: The SMC CVQ Series combines a cylinder and solenoid  valve for maximum compactness and efficiency.
Free mount cylinders 
  Designed to provide versatile mounting options, these cylinders simplify  installation and integration into complex systems. The main benefits include:
  - Multiple surfaces for direct  mounting
   - Suitable for compact spaces with  varied configurations.
 
Example Product: The SMC CU Series features a space-saving rectangular  body ideal for direct mounting.
Compact cylinders with linear guides  
  These compact linear actuators feature integrated guides to handle  lateral loads and maintain precision, making them ideal for applications  requiring high accuracy and stability. The main benefits include:
  - Non-rotating function for guided  movements
   - Enhanced load-bearing capacity for  use in robotics, medical devices, or CNC machines.
 
Example Product: The SMC MXZ Series provides precise motion control  with an integrated linear guide.
Compact cylinders with lock unit  
  These cylinders feature an integrated locking mechanism for secure  position retention, making them highly suitable for applications requiring  precise and reliable positioning. The main benefits include:
  - Locking mechanism to maintain positions
   - Ideal for applications requiring  position retention without the need for a continuous air supply.
 
Example Product: The SMC RLQ Series offers built-in air cushions and  locking mechanisms to ensure safety and stability in critical applications.
Typical applications of compact cylinders
  - Pick-and-place       operations:       Compact cylinders enable precise and efficient movement in automated       material handling systems
   - Equipment       with space constraints: Ideal for devices requiring compact actuators without       compromising performance
   - Robotics       and robot arms:       Compact cylinders enhance precision and stability in robotic applications       by reducing weight and space requirements, which optimises the performance       of robotic arms. This weight reduction minimises inertia, enabling faster       and more accurate movements in tasks such as material handling, assembly,       and precise positioning in automated systems.
 
Benefits of SMC’s compact cylinders
  Compactness: Engineered with reduced dimensions  to save space and simplify integration, enabling versatile applications even in  tight or restricted environments.  
Customisation: Extensive options for mounting,  rod modifications, and environmental adaptability (e.g., spatter-resistant  versions).  
Global  Standardisation: ISO-certified designs ensure seamless integration.
How to choose the right compact air cylinder? 
  There are  several key factors to consider when selecting compact air cylinders for your  application:
  - Bore       size and stroke:       The bore size and stroke length determine the cylinder’s power and range       of motion. These specifications should be calculated based on the required       force and movement.
   - Mounting       options:       Choose a mounting type that suits the design constraints of your system. Compact       cylinders offer diverse mounting configurations to ensure flexibility.
   - Load       stopping impact:       Assess the loads the cylinder will have to handle, including any stopping       impacts. If needed, use shock absorbers to ensure smooth operation and       protect workpieces.
   - External       forces:       Consider potential external forces, such as side loads or other loads that       could affect the cylinder. 
   - Operating       speed and air flow: Evaluate the cylinder’s speed requirements and ensure the       pneumatic circuit is designed to provide sufficient air flow for optimal       performance.
   - Environmental       factors:       Address conditions such as moisture, dust, and temperature extremes. Using       components suited for specific environments will maximise the cylinder’s       service life.
 
Optimising  compressed air quality and following maintenance recommendations are essential  steps to ensure reliable performance and longevity for your pneumatic systems.
Need help  selecting the right compact cylinder for your application? Contact our experts for personalised advice.