Hydraulic cylinders use the full-length cylinder stroke if it is not limited externally. In this case, the piston rod will hit the internal limit stop to limit the stroke.
High speed in combination with large moving masses can release large amounts of energy when the rod hits the limit spot, which might destroy the cylinder. In such cases, cylinders with cushioning might be required. Whether or not cushioning is required depends on the system's kinetic energy, i.e. on the moving mass and the speed.
In the final position, this kinetic energy is transformed into a force Fa via damping travel ΔL.
In cylinders without cushioning, this force Fa causes a mechanical elongation ΔL of the cylinder components, especially of the piston rod, the cylinder tube and the mounting screws.
In cylinders with cushioning, this force Fa is generated as a cushioning force via damping travel ΔL.