Hydraulic Cylinders for Industrial Applications

Reliable hydraulic cylinder performance for industrial hydraulics

SMC hydraulic cylinders are designed for high-force, precise linear motion in demanding industrial hydraulics applications. As robust hydraulic actuators, they convert hydraulic pressure into controlled mechanical movement, making them suitable for machinery where load capacity, stability and repeatability are critical. As a trusted SMC hydraulic cylinder solution, this range is widely specified by machine builders sourcing hydraulic cylinders in the UK and other industrial markets.

The SMC hydraulic cylinder range covers low, medium and high-pressure requirements, with nominal operating pressures from 3.5 MPa to 16 MPa and bore sizes from Ø20 to Ø100 mm, depending on the series. This wide operating window allows engineers to size hydraulic pistons accurately according to force, speed and space constraints.

Role of a hydraulic actuator in industrial hydraulics

In industrial hydraulics, the role of a hydraulic actuator is to convert fluid power into consistent, controllable motion. SMC designs its hydraulic cylinders to keep movement steady under load, helping processes remain predictable — particularly in applications where hydraulic pistons need to cycle repeatedly, hold position reliably or drive tooling with confidence.

Many SMC hydraulic cylinder models are available with a built-in magnet and support auto switch installation for position detection. This simplifies integration into automated equipment and improves process monitoring and operational safety.

Choosing the right hydraulic cylinder type

Different machines need different cylinder bodies, mounting approaches and space envelopes. That’s why SMC offers several construction styles — so you can match the actuator to the mechanics of your application rather than forcing compromises.

Compact hydraulic cylinder

When installation space is limited, a compact hydraulic cylinder can reduce overall machine footprint and simplify packaging. SMC’s compact ranges are designed to deliver strong force from a shorter body length, making them a practical choice for tight automation frames, compact fixtures and machinery where every millimetre counts.

Round hydraulic cylinders for flexible installations

Round hydraulic cylinders are often selected for straightforward mounting and machine integration. If your design needs a clean cylindrical form factor and flexible mounting options, round-body types can be a good fit — especially for equipment that prioritises simplicity and service access.

Tie-rod cylinder designs for machine builds

A tie-rod cylinder is a familiar choice in many industrial machine builds where robustness and a standardised cylinder format are preferred. SMC’s tie-rod offerings support a wide range of setups for equipment builders who want a proven cylinder style that fits established mechanical interfaces.

Built for reliability and repeatable industrial performance

SMC hydraulic cylinders are engineered to perform consistently in demanding industrial environments. Strong emphasis is placed on sealing performance, durability and stable operation, helping to reduce unplanned downtime and maintenance frequency — especially in systems where hydraulic pistons operate continuously or where interruptions directly impact productivity.

This reliability also supports repeatable performance from machine to machine, making it easier for equipment builders to standardise hydraulic actuators across multiple builds or retrofit projects while maintaining consistent operating behaviour.

Automation-ready features for modern industrial hydraulics

Many SMC hydraulic cylinder models support auto switch mounting for position detection, supporting safer, more traceable processes and easier integration into automated controls. If you’re modernising equipment, this can simplify monitoring and improve process visibility without changing the fundamental hydraulic design.

Where SMC hydraulic cylinders are commonly used

SMC hydraulic cylinders are widely used anywhere robust linear force and controlled movement are needed. Typical examples include presses, handling equipment, clamping and forming operations, and automated machinery that benefits from consistent, repeatable actuation. In these environments, cylinder durability and stable performance help reduce downtime and maintenance burden — especially where continuous operation is expected.

For applications that demand a particularly strong output, you may be looking for a high-pressure cylinder style. SMC’s catalogue includes ranges designed to suit higher working pressures commonly found in industrial systems.

For help selecting the right hydraulic cylinder for your application, contact our experts to discuss requirements, confirm suitability and get expert guidance on the most appropriate solution.

Frequently asked questions about hydraulic cylinders

What is a hydraulic cylinder?

A hydraulic cylinder is a mechanical actuator that uses pressurised hydraulic fluid to generate linear force and motion. It converts hydraulic energy into controlled, straight-line movement, typically to push, pull, lift or hold heavy loads.

Hydraulic cylinders are commonly used in applications that require high-force and precise control, such as industrial machinery, construction equipment, presses and lifting systems.

Do SMC hydraulic cylinders conform to international standards?

SMC offers hydraulic cylinders that conform to recognised international standards, including ISO, depending on the series. This helps ensure compatibility with standardised machine designs and simplifies replacement or integration in global applications.

Can SMC hydraulic cylinders be used with different hydraulic fluids?

Yes, depending on the series and seals, SMC hydraulic cylinders can use mineral hydraulic oil, water-glycol and emulsion fluids (W/O or O/W). Always confirm fluid compatibility for your specific cylinder.

What seal material options are available for SMC hydraulic cylinders?

Depending on the series, SMC hydraulic cylinders can be supplied with different seal materials such as nitrile rubber (NBR) or fluoro rubber (FKM). Seal selection helps optimise performance based on operating conditions and fluid compatibility.

Can SMC hydraulic cylinders be installed in different orientations?

Yes, SMC hydraulic cylinders can be installed in various orientations depending on the mounting style and application design. Correct mounting and alignment are important to ensure smooth operation and minimise side loads on the cylinder.

Are intermediate or custom stroke lengths available?

Yes, certain SMC hydraulic cylinder series support made-to-order intermediate stroke lengths. These are typically manufactured in defined increments, allowing closer matching to application-specific travel requirements.