What Are the Differences Between Tie Rod and Welded Hydraulic Cylinders?
When choosing a hydraulic cylinder, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important considerations is the design of the cylinder. Standard hydraulic cylinders typically fall into two categories: tie rod cylinders and welded cylinders.
Here, we break down the features, benefits, and applications of each of these types of cylinders to help you understand their differences and make the right selection for your operations. For additional resources, view our helpful worksheets.
Tie Rod Hydraulic Cylinders
Features of Tie Rod Hydraulic Cylinders
NFPA tie rod hydraulic cylinders feature external threaded tie bolts, or rods, that run the entire length of the cylinder tube and through holes in the end caps. Each rod is secured with a nut to fasten the end cap to the cylinder barrel. The number of threaded tie rods or bolts can vary based on the cylinder’s bore diameter and operating pressure, but can range from 4 to 20 rods.
Benefits of Tie Rod Cylinders
There are many advantages of using tie rod cylinders for hydraulic operations:
- Ease of maintenance
- Require minimal tools for assembly and disassembly
- Built to NFPA standards for interchangeability
- Lower repair costs
- Replacement components are widely available
- Available in a large range of sizes and configurations
- Affordable
- Reliable performance
Tie Rod Cylinder Applications
Tie rod hydraulic cylinders are built for heavy-duty industrial manufacturing applications with low pressure requirements and controlled environments. Their reliability and ease of servicing make these models ideal for predictable and repeatable operations. Their bulky design demands more installation space than other cylinders, making these cylinders ideal for standard-size installations. Additional tie rod hydraulic cylinder applications include:
- Automation systems
- Food processing equipment
- Medical devices
- Agricultural machinery
Welded Hydraulic Cylinders
Features of Welded Hydraulic Cylinders
Welded hydraulic cylinders differ from tie rod cylinders in that the barrel is welded directly to both end caps, creating a sealed structure without external tie rods. The mounts and other fittings are also welded to the end caps. The welding reinforces the strength of the cylinder, making it sturdy and durable. Additionally, the lack of external tie rods means these cylinders have a streamlined build and can fit in smaller spaces. However, they are more challenging to repair and often require specialized tools.
Benefits of Welded Cylinders
Welded hydraulic cylinders offer many benefits:
- Superior strength and reliability
- Suitable for high-pressure applications
- Compact, lightweight construction
- Easy integration into equipment
- Long service life
- Increased wear resistance
- Minimized risk of leaks
- Durable in harsh environments
Welded Cylinder Applications
Welded hydraulic cylinders are ideal for medium to heavy-duty applications. These high-performance cylinders are built to withstand high-pressure environments, and their low-profile design is advantageous for mobile equipment or operations with limited space. Applications include:
- Construction equipment such as excavators, loaders, and skid steers
- Agricultural machinery
- Oil and gas equipment
- Snow and dirt removal
Choosing the Right Hydraulic Cylinder
To determine the right hydraulic cylinder for your needs, consider the following:
- Installation space: If your space is limited, a welded cylinder may be the better option. Tie rod cylinders are often a better choice for applications with increased room and mobility.
- Ease of servicing: Welded cylinders are more complex to repair but are often more durable. Tie rod cylinders are very easy to assemble and disassemble, making maintenance straightforward and fast.
- Overall cost: Tie rod cylinders are more affordable upfront, but welded cylinders often require less maintenance, lowering costs over time. Consider your current and long-term budget.
Our worksheets are free, easy to use, and can help you customize a telescopic or welded cylinder that meets your needs.
Contact Hydraulic Cylinders, Inc. to Order Replacement Hydraulic Cylinders
We are proud to be a reliable source of performance-built aftermarket hydraulic cylinders. With a large inventory and FASTSHIP same-day shipping on in-stock items, we supply you with the right hydraulic cylinders and components for your needs.
Contact us for more information about tie rod and welded hydraulic cylinders. Request a quote to begin your order today.
Sources
- Tie Rod Cylinder vs. Welded Cylinder: Which to Choose for Your Application?. Cylinders, Inc. (August 2022). https://cylindersinc.com/blog/tie-rod-cylinder-vs-welded-cylinder-which-to-choose-for-your-application
- Tie Rod vs. Welded Cylinders: Which One is Right for Your Application?. Bailey International. (n.d.). https://www.baileyintl.com/post/tie-rod-vs-welded-cylinders-which-one-is-right-for-your-application
- Tie-Rod and Welded Hydraulic Cylinders – What’s the Difference?. Hercules Sealing Products. (n.d.). https://herculesus.com/learning-center.php?name=TieRod-and-Welded-Hydraulic-Cylinders–Whats-the-Difference&id=164&srsltid=AfmBOoosvG_dBJQcDmOO3AS_KBQtskix5vptRjStOiH2kcGxdrXgLgk1
