What Are Long Stroke Hydraulic Cylinders?

Long stroke cylinders are hydraulic actuators designed with an extended piston travel range, capable of moving loads over long distances in a single, continuous motion. These cylinders are typically single or double-acting and built for 10,000 psi (700 bar) operation.

Enerpac offers long stroke models in a wide range of capacities and lengths, including:

• Single-acting spring return for basic lift-and-hold

• Double-acting cylinders for controlled lifting and retraction

• Lock nut models for safe load holding over time

• High-tonnage long stroke versions for massive structures

The longer stroke length reduces the need for repositioning or cribbing during lift operations, speeding up workflows and increasing jobsite efficiency.

Where and How Are They Used?

Enerpac Long Stroke Cylinders are used in situations where large vertical or horizontal movement is required without interruption:

• Bridge lifting and structural realignment

• Modular building and component placement

• Tank jacking and silo installation

• Heavy machinery leveling and positioning

• Lifting operations with limited clearance resets

• Wind turbine base installation

These cylinders are commonly integrated into synchronous lifting systems, where multiple cylinders lift simultaneously while maintaining perfect balance. Their long stroke capability makes them ideal for lifting heavy loads across great distances—smoothly and safely.

Accessories and Components for Use

To operate effectively, long stroke cylinders are paired with compatible Enerpac accessories:

• Electric or air-powered hydraulic pumps

• Manifolds and valves for multi-cylinder coordination

• Hoses and quick-connect couplers

• Pressure gauges to monitor lift loads

• Locking collars or mechanical lock nuts for safety during extended lifts

• Stroke limiters and travel indicators for precision control

These accessories allow teams to customize a hydraulic system tailored to the application’s lifting height, load capacity, and control needs.

Industries That Use Long Stroke Cylinders in the USA

Long stroke hydraulic cylinders are critical in many sectors, particularly those focused on infrastructure, energy, and heavy equipment installation:

• Civil Infrastructure & Bridge Construction – For lifting beams, decks, and piers

• Power Generation – Installing wind turbines and maintaining hydroelectric gates

• Oil & Gas – Used in refinery maintenance and storage tank installation

• Shipbuilding & Ports – For dry dock lifts, hull support, and crane erection

• Mining & Heavy Industry – Leveling and adjusting oversized machinery

• Rail & Transportation – For rail alignment and elevated platform support

In all these cases, stroke length equals efficiency, minimizing interruptions and increasing safety.

Why Choose Enerpac Long Stroke Cylinders?

Enerpac is a leader in hydraulic lifting technology, and their long stroke models are built for demanding industrial use:

• Precision-machined for smooth travel and accurate stroke

• High-tonnage capacity for serious lifting power

• Durable seal designs for long-term use

• Corrosion-resistant coatings for harsh environments

• Mechanical stop rings and lock nut models available

With models ranging from moderate lift height to extreme stroke distances, Enerpac long stroke cylinders ensure your project is always within reach—literally and figuratively.

Interesting Facts

• Some Enerpac long stroke cylinders offer stroke lengths over 24 inches, allowing major lifts with zero repositioning.

• They’re often used with synchronized lift control systems that provide digital feedback for ultra-precise leveling.

• In large modular construction projects, these cylinders help elevate multi-ton assemblies with just one lift cycle.

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