What are guided cylinders and how do they work?
Guided cylinders, also referred to as guided pneumatic cylinders or guided actuators, are precision-engineered pneumatic actuators designed for linear motion applications that demand high accuracy, load stability, and resistance to deflection. Unlike standard pneumatic cylinders, guided cylinders incorporate guide rods or linear bearings to prevent rotation and maintain alignment under side or eccentric loads.
At SMC, our range of pneumatic cylinders with guide rods is engineered for durability, compactness, and consistent performance in applications where precision and reliability are critical. Whether you're working in automotive assembly, electronics handling, packaging lines, or food processing, SMC’s guided pneumatic cylinders offer the robust control required for non-rotating linear motion.
Types of guided actuators offered by SMC
SMC provides a versatile selection of guided actuators to suit diverse automation needs:
Our pneumatic cylinders with guides combine linear actuation with integrated guide mechanisms to prevent rotation and improve load capacity. Available with slide bearings, ball bushings, or high-precision guides, they support a wide range of applications — from simple pushing to high-accuracy positioning. Their robust design ensures smooth motion under lateral or eccentric loads. SMC offers multiple compact solutions with mounting styles and stroke options, as well as end-locking, water-resistant, and cleanroom-ready versions. These actuators with guide rods are a versatile choice for engineers looking to increase stability and extend service life in linear motion systems.
Dual rod cylinders feature an internal dual-rod construction, offering similar performance to guided cylinders in a more compact form. The design with twin pistons provides double the force in half the space, while ensuring a solid and effective guide. This configuration allows for enhanced load handling and stability in tight spaces, making it an ideal solution when compactness and high force are required.
Pneumatic slides are compact actuators with a built-in linear guide that provides exceptional accuracy and repeatability. Their low-profile design and dual-rod construction ensure minimal deflection and high load stability in limited spaces.
Precision guided cylinders offer high accuracy and minimal displacement in a compact format. They are ideal for delicate, small-load applications that require smooth, reliable linear motion in confined spaces.
Typical applications for guided cylinders
SMC’s guided air cylinders can be used in a wide range of applications:
- Pressing and Clamping: For accurate, repeatable force application in assembly, testing or packaging tasks.
- Lifting and Supporting Loads: Ideal for vertical movements or where external loads must be stabilised.
- Positioning and Stopping: Ensuring consistent end positioning and preventing misalignment in conveyor or robotic systems.
Benefits of choosing SMC guided actuators
- Compactness: SMC's cylinders with integrated guides are a compact and sturdy solution that also reduces the size of the machine.
- Precision: actuators with high-precision linear guides for high-accuracy applications.
- Flexible Mounting: Multiple mounting options, stroke ranges, and accessories provide excellent adaptability to specific system needs.
How to choose the right guided pneumatic cylinder?
There are several key factors to consider when selecting a guided cylinder:
- 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 linear actuator for your application? Contact our experts for personalised advice.