Multi-Stage Telescopic Hydraulic Cylinders: Stages, Stroke and Load Ratings

Why stages matter

A telescopic cylinder telescopes inside itself, so the retracted length stays short while the extended stroke grows with the number of stages. Two stages give roughly twice the retracted length of travel, three stages about three times, and so on, within the same installed envelope.

Load falls as the cylinder extends

The load capacity of a telescopic cylinder decreases with extension because the number of stages carrying the load reduces. Never size a tipper body on the retracted rating; check the capacity at the stroke you need, with the side-load and the tipping angle taken into account.

Side load and alignment

Telescopic cylinders must be mounted so the body does not take side load. Use spherical bearings or matched clevis mounts, keep the cylinder in line with the load path, and provide a mechanical stop for the fully extended position.

Rod surface and seals

Each stage rod is chrome plated and sealed against dirt ingress. For refuse, quarry and coastal service, specify wiper seals and the rod protection type that suits the material being handled.

Specifying a telescopic cylinder

Send the required stroke, the maximum extension, the load at full extension, the mounting arrangement, the number of body sections available on the machine, the fluid and the duty cycle. We will confirm the stage count and the load rating at the stroke you need.