When the piston rod is actuated, the required fluid, such as hydraulic oil, flows into the hydraulic cylinder and exits from the other active side.
The flow speed of the fluid depends on the traverse speed and the cross-sectional area of the supply lines, particularly in the ports and screw connections. A high flow speed generates a higher pressure loss at the drive, thereby reducing the hydraulic efficiency. Consequently, the flow speed should be kept as low as possible.
The permissible oil speeds depend on the properties of the fluid. Recommendations for mineral oils can be found in the following table.
Pressure lines
| Nominal pressure | > 3 bar | < 25 bar | > 63 bar | > 160 bar | > 250 bar |
| Permissible oil speed | < 3 m/s | < 5 m/s | < 6 m/s | < 8 m/s | < 10 m/s |
Return lines
| Permissible oil speed | < 3 m/s |
Calculation formulas for the design of hydraulic cylinders
Calculation of the buckling resistance of hydraulic cylinders
Buckling cases calculation - Mountings of piston rod and cylinder
Calculation of the sine movement of hydraulic cylinders and oscillation cylinders