Estimate ideal cylinder force from fluid pressure and effective piston area.
Hydraulic Cylinder Calculator
Results
Push of a Hydraulic Cylinder
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Pull of a Hydraulic Cylinder
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Table of Contents
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What is Hydraulic Cylinder?
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How to Use This Calculator
- Enter or select Bore of a Cylinder (b), Pound per Square Inch (PSI), Diameter of a Rod (d), Angle (degrees).
- Check the unit beside each measurement. For a percentage or rate, use the scale and time period stated in the form.
- Choose Calculate, then compare the output with the formula and example below. If you change a value or option, calculate again to update the result.
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Formula Used
Extension force = pressure × πbore²/4; retraction uses piston area minus rod area.
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Variables Explained
| Input | What it means |
|---|---|
| Bore of a Cylinder (b) | Use the measured or stated value for this item, with the unit or category shown beside the field. |
| Pound per Square Inch (PSI) | Use the measured or stated value for this item, with the unit or category shown beside the field. |
| Diameter of a Rod (d) | Distance across a circle through its center; twice the radius. |
| Angle (degrees) | The angle for the selected function, in degrees or radians as stated beside the input. |
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Worked Example
A 2 in bore at 1,000 psi produces about 3,142 lbf ideal extension force.
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Why Use This Calculator?
Use the result to put measurements on a common basis before comparing them or estimating quantities. The original measurement precision still limits the precision of the answer.
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Common Mistakes
- Rod-side force is lower, and actual force is affected by friction, losses and installation angle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I round a measurement?
Carry the measured values and conversion factors through the calculation first. Round the final result to a precision justified by the original measurements.
Why can a supplier’s quantity differ?
Measurement conventions, nominal sizes, density assumptions and purchase rounding can change a practical quantity. Compare the units and assumptions before comparing the numbers.
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