Simplex RLS Series hydraulic cylinders are compact, low-profile, single-acting, spring-return cylinders designed for lifting applications where available clearance is limited. Their low collapsed height allows substantial hydraulic force to be applied in spaces where a conventional general-purpose cylinder may be too tall to fit.
RLS Series cylinders are available in capacities from 10 to 100 tons with stroke lengths ranging from approximately 1.5 to 2.44 inches. They are designed for high-pressure hydraulic systems with a maximum operating pressure of 10,000 psi.
Low-Profile Hydraulic Lifting
The Simplex RLS Series is designed to provide more usable stroke than an extremely low-profile flat-jack cylinder while still maintaining a compact overall height. This makes the series useful for machinery moving, structural lifting, maintenance, bridge work, pier-cap service, equipment positioning, and other applications where vertical clearance is restricted.
The combination of low collapsed height and moderate stroke gives RLS cylinders a practical balance between fitting into confined spaces and providing enough travel to complete many lifting operations without repeated repositioning.
Simplex RLS Series Capacity and Stroke Options
The RLS Series includes 10, 20, 30, 50, and 100-ton capacity classes. Stroke varies by model from approximately 1.5 to 2.44 inches, allowing the cylinder to be selected based on both the required lifting force and available installation space.
When comparing RLS models, consider rated capacity, stroke, minimum height, extended height, body diameter, piston diameter, and oil capacity.
Built for Industrial and Structural Lifting
Simplex RLS cylinders use steel construction for demanding industrial and field applications. A heavy-duty internal spring provides fast piston retraction when hydraulic pressure is released.
The grooved plunger helps stabilize the load, while a stop ring protects against piston over-travel. A plated piston helps resist scoring and corrosion, and the rod wiper helps prevent dirt and contamination from entering the cylinder.
Choosing a Simplex RLS Low Profile Cylinder
Start by measuring the available clearance beneath the load. The selected cylinder's minimum height must fit within the available space before the lifting operation begins.
Next, determine the maximum lifting force required and select a cylinder with adequate rated capacity. Then compare the available stroke with the amount of movement required for the job.
Also verify cylinder dimensions, oil capacity, operating pressure, hydraulic connections, and compatibility with the pump, hose, couplers, gauge, and other components in the hydraulic system.
RLS vs. RFS Low-Height Cylinders
- Simplex RFS Series Cylinders are extremely low-profile flat-jack cylinders with very short stroke for applications where starting clearance is minimal.
- Simplex RLS Series Cylinders provide a taller but still compact design with substantially more stroke, making them better suited when additional travel is required.
For applications where clearance is less restrictive and greater stroke is required, browse Simplex R Series Hydraulic Cylinders.
Return to Simplex Hydraulic Cylinders to compare all available Simplex cylinder series.