What Are Pull Hydraulic Cylinders?

Pull cylinders are hydraulic actuators specifically engineered to generate force in the retraction direction, rather than extension. Enerpac’s pull cylinder designs often feature:

• Threaded rod attachment points on the plunger and base

• Single-acting (spring return) or double-acting operation

• Compact, high-strength steel or aluminum bodies

• Corrosion-resistant finishes for outdoor and offshore work

They function by anchoring the base while pulling a rod or part inward, often through a hole or around a fixture. This makes them ideal for tensioning operations or extracting press-fit components.

Where and How Are They Used?

Enerpac Pull Cylinders are used when a linear pulling force is required in place of, or in addition to, pushing. Applications include:

• Anchor bolt tensioning in bridge, wind, and energy construction

• Post-tensioning concrete structures and slabs

• Bearing, pin, or bushing removal in maintenance work

• Load testing in structural engineering

• Cable tensioning and de-tensioning operations

• Pulling couplings or gear components from shafts

The cylinder’s pulling force is applied using threaded rods, pulling plates, or reaction nuts, depending on the job. They’re often part of portable tensioning systems used in the field.

Accessories and System Components

To build a complete pulling system, Enerpac cylinders are paired with:

• Threaded tension rods to connect cylinder to load

• Pulling nuts, adapter plates, and reaction washers

• Electric or manual hydraulic pumps

• High-pressure hoses and couplers

• Base plates or clevis mounts for stability

• Pressure gauges to monitor applied force

Depending on the application, custom accessories such as split nuts or draw bars may be added for safer, more efficient tensioning or pulling.

Industries in the USA That Use Pull Cylinders

Enerpac Pull Hydraulic Cylinders are deployed in industries where precise tensioning and controlled extraction are essential:

• Construction & Civil Engineering – For post-tensioning beams, decks, and bridges

• Power Generation – Tensioning anchor bolts in turbines and nuclear reactors

• Shipbuilding & Marine – Removing press-fit parts, pins, and shafts

• Railroad & Transport – Maintenance on wheels, couplers, and mechanical connections

• Mining & Heavy Equipment – For field service bushing and pin removal

• Structural Testing & Inspection – Load and tension testing for safety certification

Because they deliver pulling power exactly where it’s needed, these cylinders improve safety and efficiency in operations where brute force won’t cut it.

Why Choose Enerpac Pull Hydraulic Cylinders?

Enerpac’s engineering and global support make their pull cylinders a clear choice:

• Compact yet powerful for tight-space applications

• Precision-machined for alignment and load control

• Threaded ports and mounting for easy integration

• Available in a wide range of tonnages and stroke lengths

• Built to endure field abuse, rust, and repeated use

These cylinders are a smart investment for any contractor or facility that needs precision pulling performance with minimum setup.

Interesting Facts

• Enerpac pull cylinders are often used with hydraulic nuts to simultaneously tension bolts and measure applied force.

• In offshore wind farm construction, pull cylinders are deployed to align and tension massive anchor structures.

• Some models are available in aluminum for lightweight, portable use without compromising force output.

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