Tolerance for pneumatic cylinder and piston

In summary, when operating a pneumatic cylinder and piston at around 2 psi and room temperature, it is important to have a close tolerance between the piston and cylinder to limit leakage. However, this will also depend on the friction and thermal variations of the materials. To reduce leakage, a seal such as an O-ring in a pressure-filled groove may be necessary.
  • #1
etherist
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What is the tolerance for pneumatic cylinder and piston operating about 2 psi, at room temperature, so that the piston can move freely without leakage? The piston diameter is 20 mm.
 
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  • #2
Hi etherist, A piston won't seal against a cylinder simply by being close fitting. There will always be a gap between the piston and cylinder which allows some leakage. If there isn't, the piston will rub on the cylinder, create heat, wear, etc...

Seals function because the contact stress between the sealing faces is higher than the pressure differential, so without this contact stress, you won't form a seal. You can limit the leakage and that leakage can be calculated by modeling the gap between your piston and cylinder but it will leak nevertheless as long as there's a gap.
 
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  • #3
Thanks Q_Guest, is it i need a very close tolerance so the i can lessen the leakage? but what is the of it in friction? Is the friction depends on the gap? I wanted to produce an air spring, which if i applied a blow it will vibrate freely.
 

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  • #4
There will be thermal variations due to materials. You must allow for that.
Depending on speed and lubrication, it will need a seal such as an O-ring in a big groove, that will be pushed against the piston cylinder gap by pressure.
 
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1. What is tolerance in relation to pneumatic cylinders and pistons?

Tolerance refers to the acceptable amount of variation or deviation from a desired or specified dimension in the manufacturing process of pneumatic cylinders and pistons.

2. Why is tolerance important in the production of pneumatic cylinders and pistons?

Tolerance is important because it ensures that the parts fit and function properly, preventing issues such as leaks or malfunctions. It also helps to maintain consistency and quality in the production process.

3. How is tolerance measured in pneumatic cylinders and pistons?

Tolerance is typically measured in units of length, such as millimeters or inches. It can also be expressed as a percentage of the desired dimension, known as a percentage tolerance.

4. What are the factors that can affect tolerance in pneumatic cylinders and pistons?

The main factors that can affect tolerance include the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the precision of the machinery and tools used in production.

5. How can tolerance be controlled in the production of pneumatic cylinders and pistons?

Tolerance can be controlled through careful design and selection of materials, as well as using precise machining techniques and quality control measures during the manufacturing process.

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