Properly storing a hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder will prevent premature failure of the seals and other wear components. If stored correctly you can get longer life and lower your total cost of ownership.

When a cylinder is out of service and in the store room there are general rules that followed lead to the best performing cylinder. Royal has been asked by a lot of equipment owners what is the best procedure for storing cylinders for an extended period. So here are is what is recommended:

Metal Port Plug

WHAT YOU SHOULD BE DOING

• Always store fully retracted
• Store indoors in a clean, dry space that has minimal temperature changes
• Protect the exposed piston rod, steel, and thread with rust inhibitor oil or grease
• Keep rod threads protected by either storing with pre-installed attachments or covering with protective sleeves
• Apply lubrication grease to any eye/clevis bushing or bearings – especially if they are steel
• Plug ports with metal plugs
• If possible fill hydraulic cylinders with oil on the rod side only before plugging.

Examples

Royal Cylinders being ready to ship.

• Insides lubricated (Pneumatic cylinders)
• Metal port plugs
• Protection for rod end thread

What To Avoid

• Do not store your cylinder outside for any length of time. Exposed surfaces including the chrome rods can rust quickly and will cause rapid failure of seals and bushings
• Do not spray rods or cylinders with CRC, WD40 or other water displacement chemicals. These chemicals cause the urethane seals to swell thus leading to premature seal failure or cylinder jamming. Use a proper soluble wax rust preventer if required. A light mineral oil can be used to coat the inside for cylinders that will be stored longer than 6 months.

Conclusion

Taking the time and care to ensure your cylinders are stored correctly will increase your cylinder life and add value to the bottom line. If ever needing Royal to review a cylinder for long term storage Royal is always happy to help.