Non-Rotating Rodless Cylinders
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Non-rotating rodless cylinders are pneumatic devices designed to convert pneumatic energy into mechanical work. They feature a movable element, typically a piston, that operates within a cylindrical bore. Unlike traditional cylinders, these do not have a piston rod extending outside the cylinder, which allows for a more compact design and eliminates the need for additional space to accommodate rod extension.
Working Principle
Non-rotating rodless cylinders operate using a magnetic coupling mechanism. The carriage, which moves along the outside of the cylinder, is not mechanically attached to the piston inside. Instead, it is propelled by the magnetic attraction between a magnet on the piston and a corresponding magnet on the carriage. This design prevents contaminants from entering the cylinder, making it suitable for environments where cleanliness is crucial. The magnetic coupling also allows for easy re-coupling of the carriage to the piston by simply aligning them. These cylinders are useful because they provide a compact solution for linear motion without the need for external guides or supports.
Applications
Non-rotating rodless cylinders are used in a variety of applications, particularly where space constraints are a concern. Specific examples include heavy-duty applications such as opening gates or bay doors, lifting materials or products, and counterbalancing in industrial settings. They are also suitable for environments that require protection from contaminants, such as clean rooms or food processing facilities.
Advantages over other Rodless Cylinders
One of the primary advantages of non-rotating rodless cylinders is their ability to prevent contaminant entry due to their enclosed design. This makes them ideal for applications requiring a high level of cleanliness. Additionally, the magnetic coupling allows for easy re-coupling of the carriage to the piston, which can be advantageous in applications where frequent adjustments are necessary. They are also compatible with low-pressure hydraulic services, offering versatility in different operational environments.
Limitations
Non-rotating rodless cylinders can have higher initial costs compared to other types of cylinders. They may also experience uncoupling at high speeds or during hard deceleration, which can limit their use in applications requiring rapid or abrupt movements. Additionally, the magnetic coupling mechanism may not be suitable for all load types or speeds, requiring careful selection based on the specific application requirements.
Considerations
When selecting non-rotating rodless cylinders, it is important to consider factors such as initial costs, operating expenses, and maintenance requirements. The durability and accuracy of the cylinder should be evaluated in relation to the specific application needs. Proper maintenance, including keeping surfaces clean and ensuring correct cable tension, is crucial for maximizing reliability and service life. Operating conditions, such as temperature extremes, should also be considered, and protective measures like heat shields may be necessary to prevent damage.
from ASCO
The MCR Series cylinder consists of a piston and a carriage, which are coupled together using rare earth magnets. When the cylinder is pressurized from one end, the piston will travel the length of the tube, which in turn moves the carriage. Pressurizing the other side the carriage will travel back... [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke (optional feature); Integral Sensor (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Rated Load/Force: 195
- Stroke: 0.0 to 60
- Operating Pressure: 100
from Tolomatic
Will accommodate a wide variety of applications where space is limited [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 175
- Bore Size: 0.5000
from AGI - American Grippers Inc.
Magnetically coupled cylinder is designed to be leak free due to no mechanical connection between the piston and the body. Prelubricated for miles of maintenance-free travel, with easily accessible carriage lubrication port.304 stainless steel tubing and U-cup seals for lower dynamic... [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Integral Sensor (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Protective Boot; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Rated Load/Force: 60
- Stroke: 8 to 132
- Operating Pressure: 26 to 101
from IBT Industrial Solutions
IBT Industrial Solutions provides products and technical services for a complete line of pneumatic products. Our experience and expertise in the fluid power business, coupled with the strength and reach of our extensive distribution network give you the peace of mind that IBT is the right choice for... [See More]
- Features: Non-Rotating
- Mounting: NFPA
- Actuation: Pneumatic
from Tolomatic
Maximum load weight of 60lbs. custom-made to meet application requirements [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 283
- Bore Size: 1
from AGI - American Grippers Inc.
Magnetically coupled cylinder is designed to be leak free due to no mechanical connection between the piston and the body. Prelubricated for miles of maintenance-free travel, with easily accessible carriage lubrication port.304 stainless steel tubing and U-cup seals for lower dynamic... [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Integral Sensor (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Protective Boot; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Rated Load/Force: 24
- Stroke: 5 to 96
- Operating Pressure: 26 to 101
from Tolomatic
For moderate to heavy applications, maximum of 120 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 281
- Bore Size: 1.25
from Tolomatic
For moderate to heavy applications, maximum of 180 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 278
- Bore Size: 1.5
from Tolomatic
Either short- or long-stroke applications, maximum load capacity of 300 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 158
- Bore Size: 2
from Tolomatic
Either short- or long-stroke applications, maximum load capacity of 400 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 145
- Bore Size: 2.5
from Tolomatic
4 porting options with cross over porting capabilities, max load of 591 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Linear Position Feedback (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 205
- Bore Size: 1
from Tolomatic
6 porting options w/ cross over porting capabilities, max load of 1454 lbs [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Linear Position Feedback (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 205
- Bore Size: 1.5
from Tolomatic
Max load capacity of 2008 lbs, able to deliver force of 314 lbs at 100 psi [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Linear Position Feedback (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 120
- Bore Size: 2
from Tolomatic
Accommodates thrust up to 30 lbs, customer-specified stroke lengths [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 211
- Bore Size: 0.6250
from Tolomatic
Accommodates thrust up to 78 lbs, customer-specified stoke lengths [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 210
- Bore Size: 1
from Tolomatic
Double the velocity and stroke capacity of double-acting cylinders [See More]
- Features: Air/Oil Tandem; Bumpers; Holding Brake (optional feature); Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Non-Rotating
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 126
- Bore Size: 1.5
from Tolomatic
No mechanical piston connection, actuator block can be easily rotated [See More]
- Features: Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Intrinsically Safe; Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Protective Boot
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 26
- Bore Size: 0.2500
from Tolomatic
Accommodates the most demanding application environments [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Intrinsically Safe; Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 30
- Bore Size: 0.3750
from Tolomatic
Large bearing surface contact area optimizes stress distribution [See More]
- Features: Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating
- Actuation: Electrical
- Stroke: 61 to 120
- Cylinder Configuration: Guided
from Tolomatic
Large bearing surface contact area optimizes stress distribution [See More]
- Features: Adjustable Stroke; Bumpers; Magnetic Switch (optional feature); Non-Rotating; Shock Absorbers (optional feature)
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: ? to 206
- Bore Size: 1
from Tolomatic
Ideal for vertical lifting applications [See More]
- Features: Air/Oil Tandem; Bumpers; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Non-Rotating
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 20.4
- Bore Size: 0.7500
from Tolomatic
Al bearing block guides & supports loads on precision linear ball bearings [See More]
- Features: Air/Oil Tandem; Home / Limit / Position Switches (optional feature); Non-Rotating
- Operating Pressure: 0.0 to 100
- Stroke: 20.4
- Bore Size: 0.5000