
Electric cylinders
They contain no hydraulic oils, only lubricants. Our electric cylinders are available with adjustment forces from 1 kN to 500 kN and stroke lengths of up to 5 metres. There are various designs and series that differ in terms of the connection between motor and threaded spindle as well as the area of application. Our product range also covers all areas of application. From simple adjustment functions with occasional movement to highly dynamic work functions in continuous operation. Electric cylinders are maintenance-free throughout their service life.
The clean alternative – electric cylinders instead of hydraulics and pneumatics
Electric cylinders from HYDAC (HEZ series) mark the next step in industrial linear technology. As autonomous electromechanical drives, they convert electrical energy into powerful linear movements directly – without a hydraulic power unit, compressed air supply, tubing or leakage risk. These electric lift cylinders (also called spindle drive, linear actuator or electric lifting cylinder) are the ideal solution for general mechanical engineering, automation technology, process automation, special machine construction, test bench construction, hydraulic steel structures and the food industry – wherever precise positioning, repeatability and cleanliness are required.
Modular technology – from trapezoidal thread to planetary roller thread drive
The HEZ series is characterised by its advanced modular design. Depending on the application, different thread sets are used: trapezoidal screw drives for robust adjustment tasks, ball screw drives for high precision and dynamics or planetary roller screw drives for particularly high loads. Depending on the series, the drive spindle is driven by a robust asynchronous motor or a powerful servo motor.
This combination enables precise positioning – built into the system, without any additional proportional valves. Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders can also be positioned, but require proportional valves, linear position sensors and complex control technology.
HYDAC delivers the precise HEZ-electric cylinder you need for your project – in three expansion stages: As a pure linear unit (spindle-nut unit with housing) that you can flange your own motor or gear motor to. As a cylinder with gear motor, ready-assembled and ready for connection to your existing drive controller. Or as a complete drive package including drive controller – co-ordinated, parameterised and ready to use. This allows you to decide for yourself what level of integration you need, giving you full flexibility for integration into your control concept.
Technology comparison – electric cylinders vs hydraulics vs pneumatics
Electric cylinders
- Controllability (very good): Allows precise control of position, force and speed.
- Energy efficiency (high): The energy consumption only occurs during actual motion.
- Dynamic (high): The systems work very fast, precise and are easily controllable.
- Maintenance effort (very low): There is hardly any maintenance required; only occasional lubrication of the mechanics is necessary.
- Cleanliness (very high): Since no oil is used, very clean operation is possible.
Hydraulics
- Force density (very high): Achieves the best power density of all three technologies thanks to very high pressures.
- Controllability (good): Provides very good force control; positioning is also possible.
Pneumatics
- Dynamic (high): The technology is ideal for applications with fast cycles between two end positions.
- Cleanliness (high): As no oil is used in the medium, operation remains clean (although slight condensation may occur).
The hydraulic cylinder remains the first choice when maximum force is required with a minimum cylinder size. For applications where the highest power density is required in the smallest installation space, HYDAC adds electro-hydraulic compact axles (hydro-actuator) to the electric cylinder portfolio.
Sustainability and investment protection
For buyers, designers and planners, HYDAC electric cylinders are a future-proof investment in sustainability and cost efficiency. By completely eliminating hydraulic oil and significantly lowering energy consumption compared to hydraulic and pneumatic systems, you can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your machines and systems. The HEZ units are modular and can be easily integrated into common control environments. Thanks to their robust design, high IP protection classes and proven long service lives, HYDAC’s electric linear drives are perfectly equipped for tough industrial applications. This ensures long-term process stability and low total cost of ownership (TCO) across the entire life cycle.