Simplex RC Series hydraulic cylinders are single-acting, spring-return steel center-hole cylinders designed for pulling, pushing, tensioning, positioning, maintenance, and other industrial applications where a rod, cable, bolt, or tooling component must pass through the center of the cylinder.
The RC Series covers capacities from 12 to 100 tons with stroke options ranging from approximately 0.31 to 6.13 inches. These cylinders are designed for high-pressure hydraulic systems with a maximum operating pressure of 10,000 psi.
Single-Acting Steel Center-Hole Design
The defining feature of the Simplex RC Series is its hollow center. A rod, cable, fastener, or other component can pass directly through the cylinder, allowing hydraulic force to be applied around the centerline of the application.
This makes RC Series cylinders useful for pulling pins and sleeves, tensioning rods or cables, pressing components, positioning equipment, and other applications where a conventional solid-plunger cylinder cannot provide the required access.
Hydraulic pressure advances the piston, while an internal spring assists with retraction when pressure is released. This single-acting design allows the cylinder to operate with a relatively simple hydraulic circuit while still providing substantial pushing or pulling force.
Simplex RC Series Capacity and Stroke Options
The RC Series includes multiple capacity classes from 12 to 100 tons, allowing the cylinder to be matched to both the force and dimensional requirements of the application. Available models include short-stroke cylinders for confined spaces as well as longer-stroke configurations for applications requiring greater travel.
When comparing models, consider capacity, stroke, collapsed height, center-hole diameter, overall cylinder dimensions, and the space available around the work area.
Built for Industrial Pulling and Tensioning
Simplex RC Series cylinders use steel construction for durability in demanding industrial environments. The piston rod is induction hardened for added strength, while threaded collar provisions allow the cylinder to be incorporated into fixtures and specialized tooling.
The large center opening increases application flexibility and allows the cylinder to be used with threaded rods, cables, pulling attachments, and other components. Simplex specifically designs the RC Series to accommodate both push and pull forces.
Choosing a Simplex RC Center Hole Cylinder
Start by determining the maximum force required and select a cylinder with sufficient rated capacity. Next, determine the stroke and collapsed height required for the available installation space.
For center-hole applications, verify the inside diameter of the cylinder opening before selecting a model. The rod, cable, bolt, or tooling must have adequate clearance through the cylinder throughout the complete operating cycle.
Also verify oil capacity, operating pressure, mounting requirements, and compatibility with the hydraulic pump, hose, couplers, gauge, and other components in the system.
RC vs. Other Simplex Center Hole Cylinders
- Simplex RCD Series Cylinders provide a steel center-hole design with double-acting hydraulic operation for applications requiring powered extension and retraction.
- Simplex RAC Series Cylinders provide a lighter-weight aluminum center-hole design with single-acting, spring-return operation.
- Simplex RACD Series Cylinders combine aluminum construction with double-acting center-hole operation.
Return to Simplex Hydraulic Cylinders to compare all available Simplex cylinder series.
