Hydraulic Cylinder Fluid Capacity Calculator

Hydraulic Cylinder Fluid Capacity Formula:

\[ Capacity (gal) = \frac{\pi \times \left(\frac{Bore}{2}\right)^2 \times Stroke}{231} \]

Fluid Capacity:

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1. What is Hydraulic Cylinder Fluid Capacity?

Hydraulic cylinder fluid capacity refers to the volume of hydraulic fluid required to fully extend a hydraulic cylinder. It's an important parameter for system design, fluid reservoir sizing, and hydraulic system maintenance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the hydraulic cylinder fluid capacity formula:

\[ Capacity (gal) = \frac{\pi \times \left(\frac{Bore}{2}\right)^2 \times Stroke}{231} \]

Where:

\( Bore \) — Diameter of the cylinder bore (inches)
\( Stroke \) — Length of the piston stroke (inches)
\( \pi \) — Mathematical constant (~3.14159)
231 — Conversion factor (cubic inches to gallons)

Explanation: The formula calculates the volume of a cylinder (πr²h) and converts it from cubic inches to gallons.

3. Importance of Fluid Capacity Calculation

Details: Knowing the fluid capacity helps in proper hydraulic system design, selecting appropriate reservoir size, determining fluid requirements, and troubleshooting hydraulic systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the bore diameter and stroke length in inches. Both values must be positive numbers. The result will be the fluid capacity in gallons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 231?
A: There are 231 cubic inches in one US gallon, which is the standard conversion factor for hydraulic calculations in the US.

Q2: Does this account for the rod volume in double-acting cylinders?
A: No, this calculates single-acting cylinder capacity. For double-acting cylinders, you need separate calculations for cap end and rod end volumes.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical capacity. Actual system requirements may vary due to factors like hose expansion, valve displacement, and system leaks.

Q4: Can I use this for metric measurements?
A: This calculator uses imperial units. For metric, you would use different units (cm or mm) and conversion factors (liters instead of gallons).

Q5: How does temperature affect hydraulic fluid capacity?
A: While capacity remains constant, fluid volume changes with temperature due to thermal expansion/contraction, which affects system pressure.