Hydraulic systems rely heavily on hydraulic cylinder tube to create linear motion and force. Hydraulic cylinder tube usually is honed tube which is round steel tube with inner diameter honed or skived & roller burnished. Therefore, choosing the right material for these tubes is vital for optimal system performance. This article focuses on the two most popular materials for hydraulic cylinder tubes: carbon steel and alloy steel.
Carbon steel is a versatile material that is commonly used for hydraulic cylinder tubes due to its good mechanical properties. ST52.3, E355, SAE 1020 and SAE 1026 are the most commonly used grades for these tubes. Carbon steel is affordable and easy to machine, making it a popular choice.
Alloy steel, on the other hand, contains additional elements such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum, which improve its mechanical properties. 4140 and 4130 are the most commonly used grades for hydraulic cylinder tubes. Alloy steel offers high strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance, making it suitable for harsh environments and high wear and tear applications.
As the hydraulic cylinder tube is used as hydraulic cylinder barrel without any further I.D processing, when selecting the material for hydraulic cylinder tubes, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of the hydraulic system to ensure that the material chosen can withstand the operating conditions. Ultimately, choosing the right material for hydraulic cylinder tubes is crucial in ensuring optimal system performance.