Simplex RACD Series hydraulic cylinders are double-acting aluminum center-hole cylinders designed for lifting, pulling, pushing, tensioning, positioning, and other industrial applications that require access through the center of the cylinder. Their aluminum construction reduces overall cylinder weight, while the double-acting design provides hydraulic control during both extension and retraction.
RACD Series cylinders are available in capacities from 30 to 150 tons with stroke lengths from 2 to 10 inches. They are designed for high-pressure hydraulic systems with a maximum operating pressure of 10,000 psi.
Why Choose a Simplex RACD Center Hole Cylinder?
The center-hole design allows a threaded rod, cable, bolt, or other component to pass directly through the cylinder. This makes RACD Series cylinders useful for tensioning, pulling, pushing, testing, maintenance, and positioning applications where force needs to be applied around a central component.
Because the RACD Series is double acting, hydraulic pressure controls both piston extension and retraction. This provides more positive control over cylinder movement than a spring-return design and can be especially useful in applications requiring faster return, controlled retraction, or repeated cycling.
Lightweight Aluminum Construction
Large-capacity hydraulic cylinders can become difficult to transport and position when constructed from steel. The aluminum construction of the RACD Series reduces cylinder weight while maintaining the high-force capability required for demanding industrial applications.
Simplex RACD cylinders also incorporate protective design features including a steel piston, chrome-plated sleeve, stop rings, and a rod wiper to help protect critical cylinder components from wear, contamination, and load-related damage.
Choosing a Simplex RACD Series Cylinder
Start by determining the maximum force required for the application and select a cylinder with sufficient capacity. Next, compare the required stroke, minimum collapsed height, and available installation space.
For center-hole applications, also verify the required center-hole diameter. The opening must provide adequate clearance for the rod, cable, fastener, or tooling that will pass through the cylinder throughout the operating cycle.
Because RACD cylinders are double acting, the hydraulic system must provide pressure and return flow to both sides of the piston. Verify that the pump, valve, hoses, couplers, and other system components are suitable for double-acting cylinder operation and the required 10,000 psi working pressure.
RACD vs. Other Simplex Aluminum Cylinders
- Simplex RAC Series Cylinders provide an aluminum center-hole design with single-acting, spring-return operation.
- Simplex RAS Series Cylinders are general-purpose single-acting aluminum cylinders without a center hole.
- Simplex RAL Series Cylinders add a mechanical lock nut for applications requiring extended load holding.
Return to Simplex Hydraulic Cylinders to compare all available Simplex cylinder series.
