Hydraulic cylinders are probably what most laypeople picture when they think of fluid power—after all, these components are easily visible, iconic even, as the muscle of the system. Here are five articles on cylinders that I recommend …

1. http://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/1119/hydraulic-cylinder-drift
I like this article, “the root cause of hydraulic cylinder drift,” because it’s a topic that is not understood well by some engineers. The article now only explains the physics behind cylinder drift, but it lists specific examples where drift is likely to occur. Author Brendan Casey from Australia has been writing about hydraulics for years and is a well-respected industry voice.

2. http://blog.iqsdirectory.com/hydraulic/the-simple-design-of-hydraulic-cylinders/
This page, entitled “the simple design of hydraulic cylinders,” covers the main parts of a cylinder, discusses their use, and also describes how the main types used today are welded body and tie rod.

3. http://www.mobilehydraulictips.com/what-are-hydraulic-cylinders/
Ok, so I’m obviously biased here, but I like this article from our Fluid Power Handbook, because it gives a nice overview of where hydraulic cylinders are used, as well as mounting information, key specifications and significant questions to consider when specifying one for your application.

4. http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-hydraulic-cylinder.htm
This piece is a short but good examination of the build of a hydraulic cylinder, with a section on worn-out seals, which can be a real safety concern.

5. http://www.cylinder.co.uk/page/troubleshooting.htm
While this article is basically a really large chart, I love it because it goes into exhaustive detail about every conceivable type of symptom your hydraulic cylinder could have—and it then lists possible causes as well as remedies. Every hydraulic engineer should keep this taped to the plant wall!