Definition
A Rodless Air Cylinder is a type of pneumatic cylinder in which the piston directly or indirectly drives an external slide (load) to achieve reciprocating motion. Its core design eliminates the traditional piston rod, thereby significantly saving installation space.
Types of Rodless Air Cylinders
Rodless cylinders have structural differences, which in turn result in different functions and applicable industries.
Magnetically Coupled Rodless Cylinder:
The piston and external slide are coupled via magnetic force (non-contact), eliminating mechanical friction. This type is ideal for clean environments.
Mechanically Coupled Rodless Cylinder:
The piston is mechanically connected to the slide using steel bands or cables. These cylinders offer higher load capacities and are suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Features and Advantages of Rodless Air Cylinders
Ultra-Compact Design
Axial space consumption is reduced by 40%–50% compared to standard cylinders. For example, the OSP-P series rodless cylinder requires only 60 mm of installation length for a 100 mm stroke.High Load and High Speed
Magnetically coupled models support loads from approximately 0.5–50 kg, while mechanically coupled models can handle up to 200 kg. Speed ranges from 0.1–3 m/s, with a maximum of 5 m/s, making them ideal for fast sorting applications.Leak-Free and Maintenance-Free
Magnetically coupled models have no external dynamic seals, preventing dust intrusion and offering service lives over 100 million cycles. Mechanically coupled types use stainless steel sealing bands with minimal leakage.Modular Expansion
Compatible with accessories such as guide rails, sensors, and brakes. For example, the SMC MSY series rodless cylinders with integrated guide rails greatly reduce installation space.
Functions of Rodless Air Cylinders
Linear Motion Control
Used to drive robotic arms, conveyors, valve actuators, etc. Especially suited for applications requiring long-stroke linear motion.Long-Stroke Conveying
Rodless cylinders can achieve very long strokes—up to 7 meters in some cases—making them advantageous for large-scale equipment.Clean Environment Adaptation
Magnetically coupled types are oil-free and require no lubrication, avoiding the risk of oil contamination and ensuring a clean operating environment.
Typical Application Industries
Automated Production Lines:
Assembly of automotive components, insertion of electronic parts.Packaging Machinery:
Material pushing, sealing, labeling.Logistics and Sorting:
Driving flippers and stoppers for package routing and switching.Medical Equipment:
Pneumatic control in surgical robots, ventilators.
Summary
Rodless Air Cylinders, with their ultra-compact design, high load capacity, and leak-free operation, have become the preferred actuator in space-constrained automation scenarios. When selecting a rodless cylinder, users should consider factors such as load, speed, and environmental conditions to choose the appropriate actuator type. It is also recommended to prioritize suppliers that offer localized technical support to reduce overall costs.
We are a modern enterprise specialized in the R&D and manufacturing of pneumatic products, equipped with advanced automated production lines, precision quality control systems, and comprehensive inspection facilities. The company is committed to a technology-driven and customer-focused philosophy, continually advancing independent design and product innovation.Contact us for more information!
Over the years, we have built strong partnerships with clients across Europe, Southeast Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East, delivering reliable pneumatic automation solutions to a wide array of industries—including industrial automation, packaging, automotive, electronics, medical equipment, and food processing.
In addition, Fescolo also offers a wide range of other pneumatic products, including standard cylinders, guided cylinders, rotary cylinders, anti-rotation cylinders, as well as pneumatic valves, tubing, and fittings.
