What Are Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinders?

Double acting hydraulic cylinders are actuators that apply hydraulic pressure to both the piston and the rod sides of the cylinder. This allows for:

• Powered extension and retraction

• Stronger and more controlled movement

• Greater flexibility in orientation (vertical, horizontal, or upside down)

• Improved performance in fast-paced or complex operations

Enerpac’s double acting cylinders are typically rated to 10,000 psi (700 bar) and come in a wide range of stroke lengths, mounting options, and tonnages—from small industrial cylinders to heavy-duty high-tonnage models.

Where and How Are They Used?

Enerpac Double Acting Cylinders are favored when hydraulic control is needed throughout the full stroke cycle. Applications include:

• Hydraulic presses and tooling systems

• Automated lifting and lowering machines

• Construction hoists and bridge lifts with controlled descent

• Rail car and transport equipment service

• Pipe and flange separation or alignment

• Push-pull assemblies and testing systems

In these applications, the operator has complete control over both directions of movement, making double acting cylinders ideal for precise positioning, heavy lifting with controlled lowering, and mechanical testing.

System Components and Accessories

To operate correctly, double acting cylinders require two hydraulic ports—one for extension, one for retraction—and work best with dual-control accessories:

• Electric or air-powered pumps with 4-way valves

• Directional control valves for fluid routing

• Dual high-pressure hoses and quick couplers

• Mounting hardware (flanges, base plates, clevis ends)

• Tilt saddles and load alignment tools

• Pressure gauges and stroke limiters for monitoring**

Many Enerpac systems include synchronized control boxes, especially for lifting large structures with multiple double acting cylinders working in tandem.

Industries in the USA That Use Double Acting Cylinders

Enerpac Double Acting Hydraulic Cylinders are used extensively across the following U.S. industries:

• Construction & Infrastructure – For controlled lifting of bridge decks, beams, and foundation structures

• Manufacturing & Automation – Integrated into jigs, fixtures, and assembly presses

• Mining & Energy – For tensioning, pushing, and heavy component movement

• Railroad & Transport – Used in jacking systems where quick retract is needed

• Aerospace & Defense – For controlled motion in maintenance and testing stations

• Marine & Offshore – Ideal for push-pull setups in tight spaces and ship maintenance

Their speed, control, and reliability make them essential in any application that can’t afford delays or imprecise force application.

Why Choose Enerpac Double Acting Cylinders?

Enerpac’s double acting models are designed for precision under pressure, offering clear advantages:

• Hydraulic force applied in both directions

• Faster operation—no waiting for spring return

• Ideal for automation and remote-controlled systems

• Suitable for all orientations—no gravity required for retraction

• Engineered for high-cycle, high-force environments

From field repair to factory automation, Enerpac double acting cylinders are built for serious performance and control.

Interesting Facts

• Enerpac’s double acting cylinders are often used in synchronized lifting systems, where multiple cylinders must move in unison within millimeters.

• These cylinders are preferred for horizontal or upside-down lifting, where gravity return wouldn’t work.

• When paired with solenoid valve-controlled pumps, double acting cylinders can be fully remote-operated.

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