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Hydraulic Cylinder Solutions for Extreme Temperatures

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   January 19, 2024 08:00

Hydraulic Cylinder Solutions for Extreme Temperatures

Equipment operating in extreme temperatures poses numerous challenges, and the hydraulic cylinders within these machines are no exception.

Standard hydraulic cylinders may struggle to maintain optimal performance in harsh conditions, leading to increased wear and tear, reduced efficiency, and potential breakdowns.

Different industries have varying requirements for hydraulic systems, and off-the-shelf cylinders may not always meet these specific needs.

Many OEMs use RAM Industries’ custom hydraulic cylinders to overcome these challenges. Our cylinders can be explicitly designed for your equipment to withstand extreme temperatures.

RAM Industries has 50 years of expertise working with many different industries, improving existing cylinder designs to improve performance in these demanding conditions and new equipment designs.

RAM works closely with customers to address their unique needs and ensure their cylinders are precisely engineered to meet the demands of extreme temperatures. Customization ensures that the hydraulic cylinders are optimized for the specific challenges posed by the operating environment by carefully evaluating the design, size, and pressure requirements.

RAM hydraulic cylinders can use materials and coatings to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. Whether it’s scorching heat or freezing cold, these cylinders are designed to resist the adverse effects of temperature extremes such as thermal expansion and contraction. This enhanced durability ensures a longer lifespan for the cylinders, reducing the frequency of replacements and downtime and ultimately leading to a better quality experience for your customers.

Engineering your cylinders to accommodate specific temperature ranges considers all impacts of the environment, including the hydraulic fluid viscosity. Seals play a crucial role in preventing fluid leaks and ensuring the proper functioning of hydraulic cylinders. In extreme temperatures, standard seals may become brittle or lose their elasticity, compromising the integrity of the hydraulic system. RAM’s engineering team will recommend seals that are specifically tailored to withstand extreme temperatures. This targeted approach minimizes the risk of leaks and enhances the reliability of the equipment, especially in challenging operating conditions.

RAM Industries understands your equipment and reputation demand for hydraulic cylinders that meet your unique needs. You can trust RAM to deliver the quality product and service you expect.

Contact RAM today to help the cylinders on your cylinders thrive in the face of challenging operating environments.

877-799-1005

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Smooth Hydraulic Cylinder Transitions

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   January 18, 2024 08:00

Smooth Cylinder Transitions

RAM has over 50 years of experience working with Original Equipment Manufacturers, helping them with seamless transitions when making cylinder changes.

 

RAM Industries recognizes the value of providing customized cylinder solutions that meet the distinct needs of each industry. Our extensive hydraulic cylinder designs and in-house engineering capabilities allow us to tailor hydraulic cylinder designs to meet your specific requirements. Whether it's a modification to existing cylinder designs, materials, or other performance characteristics, we work closely with customers to deliver cylinders that align perfectly with their applications.

 

Transitioning to RAM hydraulic cylinders provides a move toward optimal performance and durability. At RAM Industries, we prioritize quality throughout all manufacturing stages. Each of our cylinders undergoes hydraulic testing to meet and exceed industry standards, ensuring reliability in the most demanding applications.

 

RAM understands implementing RAM cylinders requires a collaborative effort with your team - purchasing, engineering, production, and customer service. We have the expertise to assist you with choosing a cylinder transition approach that ensures continuity for your internal processes and end users.

 

Our experts work closely with your company to understand your unique requirements, offering personalized support and guidance. From the initial consultation to the final implementation, our dedicated team facilitates a smooth transition, minimizing downtime and optimizing efficiency.

 

One of the main concerns during a supplier transition is the potential disruption to operations. RAM acknowledges this challenge and provides streamlined options to ensure seamless integration. Some of the strategies

 

Choose the strategy that works best for your business:

 

1. "Fit & Function" Interchangeability - New RAM cylinders will have the exact outside dimensions and mounts to fit and function seamlessly without any changes to your equipment.

 

2. "Soft" Interchangeability - ALL the benefits of "Fit & Function" interchangeability, PLUS a universal seal kit that includes all required seals for the new and legacy cylinders.

 

3. "Full" Interchangeability - A complete match of every part and component of the existing cylinders are incorporated into the new RAM cylinders.

 

After-sales support is another way RAM is committed to supporting our customers with cylinder transitions. Our experienced engineers and support staff are readily available for technical support. This commitment to ongoing support fosters a strong partnership and promotes a smooth transition experience.

 

Contact the RAM team of experts today for a smooth transition to RAM Hydraulic Cylinders!

 

ESTIMATING@RAMINDUSTRIES.COM

 

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Six Hydraulic Cylinder Features That Put Safety First

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   October 31, 2023 08:05

Six Cylinder Features That Put Safety First

When there is no room for error, you can trust RAM hydraulic cylinders to ensure safety on your hydraulic equipment.

RAM's hydraulic cylinders are crucial in countless industries, powering a wide range of OEM machinery and equipment. Ensuring the safety of these applications is of utmost importance. Our custom approach means we can integrate various safety features into your hydraulic cylinders.

Our experienced engineering team at RAM Industries can work with the experts on your team to determine the most appropriate features to incorporate into your hydraulic cylinder design. Many common safety features include:

1. Emergency Stop Mechanisms

Emergency stop mechanisms are essential safety features for hydraulic cylinders used in industries where rapid stops are critical. These mechanisms can quickly halt cylinder movement in emergency situations, preventing accidents and equipment damage.

2. Overload Protection

Custom hydraulic cylinders can be equipped with overload protection systems, which automatically disengage or limit the cylinder's operation when it encounters excessive force. This prevents equipment damage and protects operators from potential accidents for applications that deal with heavy loads.

3. Position Feedback Sensors

Position feedback sensors provide an extra layer of safety where precise positioning is crucial. These sensors continuously monitor the cylinder's position and alert the system if any deviations occur, enabling rapid corrections and reducing the risk of accidents.

4. Locking Mechanisms

Both mechanical and hydraulic locking mechanisms can prevent unexpected movements. This can be vital when equipment stability is paramount, such as on tractors or oil rigs.

5. Fail-Safe Valves

Fail-safe valves are essential in applications where cylinder failure could result in catastrophic consequences. These fail-safe valves ensure hydraulic systems maintain functionality, even in a failure by isolating the failed component to prevent further damage.

6. Temperature and Pressure Sensors

Temperature and pressure sensors monitor hydraulic fluid's condition and pressure levels, helping to reduce overheating or system failures.

Incorporating other features, such as corrosion-resistant coatings or shock absorbers to dampen abrupt movements, can also extend the life of your cylinder and contribute to safe operations.

In a world where safety is paramount, custom hydraulic cylinders are an essential component in the pursuit of accident-free operations across various industries.

Contact RAM today to discuss incorporating the appropriate safety features specific to your requirements.

estimating@ramindustries.com

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Stability Engineered For Your Equipment

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   October 31, 2023 08:00

Stabilizer Cylinders Engineered For Your Equipment

Making your equipment secure and level in any environment is critical when the center of gravity of the combined load and vehicle is outside the support base of the vehicle.

RAM mechanical locking stabilizer cylinders replace manual systems used to position equipment at a desired location and height. The quick deployment ensures they are easy to adjust after placement, while maintaining the critical balance and stability required. These unique cylinders provide infinite adjustments to the finished height over the full range of the stroke. Instead of a pin, a threaded engagement locks the stabilizer in place. Utilizing RAM mechanical or hydraulic locking stabilizer cylinders ensures that your equipment will perform safely and reliably.

RAM Stabilizer cylinders play a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency and precision by helping distribute a load's weight, increase the lifting capacity, ensure safety, and provide fast, reliable operation.

RAM's designs focus on two primary mechanical locking methods, split or locking nut designs. These positive locking features provide assurance there will be no creeping from the desired settings.

  • A split locking nut design features an external split ring mechanism easily removed and replaced to lock the Stabilizer in position once deployed.
  • A solid locking nut design is fixed to the equipment and is rotated to lock the Stabilizer in position.
  • Hydraulic locking can be incorporated with hydraulic valves such as PO (Pilot Operated) check, counterbalancing and thermal relief valves.

Standard designs feature cross-pin and ball ends.

  • Cross-pin ends provide quick and easy functionality with some ability to pivot.
  • Ball ends are a unique design that provides 360-degree stability with angular interaction with the ground to match any slope.
  • Custom jacking pads or feet ensure the cylinders will stabilize your equipment precisely as needed.

RAM can easily incorporate many mounting options from hole patterns and sizes to positions such as side, top, pass-through, and flange mounts. Custom mounting offers placement flexibility specific to your equipment design.

RAM Stabilizer cylinders are versatile levelling cylinders used in various applications in transportation, oil & gas, and aggregate industries, including mobile cranes, communication towers, service trucks, aerial trucks, drilling rigs, crushers, screen decks, and conveyors.

RAM’s success has been built on the extensive engineering expertise and manufacturing capabilities we offer OEM customers. Our team implements high standards to produce dependable, high-quality cylinders. RAM puts quality at the core of what we do to ensure your cylinders provide long-lasting performance.

Contact the RAM team to configure a stabilizing cylinder solution today!

estimating@ramindustries.com

https://www.ramindustries.com/stabilizer-cylinders.aspx

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Hydraulic Cylinder Finishing Solutions

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   September 29, 2023 08:05

Hydraulic Cylinder Finishing Solutions

The quality of our paint-finishing solutions supports the strength of RAM hydraulic cylinders.

RAM Industries is committed to providing the best quality paint application for our hydraulic cylinders with our state-of-the-art paint line. Our modern paint line offers a range of capabilities that enhance the quality and efficiency of our paint-finishing process.

We load our cylinders onto a single-loop paint line system that flows through the entire system to enhance the quality and efficiency of the paint-finishing process.

Our advanced paint lines incorporate automated pretreatment processes such as cleaning the cylinders with an environmentally friendly iron phosphate wash. These processes ensure a clean and properly prepared surface, promoting optimal paint adhesion.

Paint is applied using a distinct spray pattern, ensuring consistent coverage and uniform thickness. Curing the paint once applied is critical in achieving the desired finish. Precise temperature control and airflow management ensure the paint cures uniformly, enhancing its durability and protective properties.

RAM performs quality control and inspection, including adhesion tape tests on each run of cylinders and each colour that goes through the paint line. This testing guarantees that the finished hydraulic cylinders meet the highest quality standards before they leave the paint line.

At RAM, we know that proper paint finishing can significantly extend the operational life of a hydraulic cylinder, reducing maintenance costs and downtime for your customers. In addition, the paint serves as a protective barrier against environmental factors, such as corrosion, abrasion, and chemical exposure.

RAM primarily uses a two-part polyurethane coating process. Polyurethane coatings provide an ideal balance of durability and flexibility. They are suitable for hydraulic cylinders subjected to dynamic movements, as they can withstand bending and flexing without cracking or peeling. Polyurethane coatings also offer good UV resistance, retaining colour and protecting against outdoor conditions.

High-solid and primer epoxy coatings are available for additional adhesion and chemical resistance. Epoxy finishes are particularly suitable for hydraulic cylinders used in industrial and marine applications.

In addition to paint finishes, options such as zinc chromate and clear dichromate electro-galvanized plating are available. These finishes also provide increased performance in challenging environments by providing additional protection.

The look of the hydraulic cylinders on your equipment helps support your brand. RAM provides custom colour matching from an RAL number or a paint sample. The colour options are endless, including primed, solid or metallic colours.

Contact RAM to learn more today!

estimating@ramindustries.com

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Single-Acting Cylinder Solutions

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   September 29, 2023 08:00

Single-Acting Cylinders

Unlock the power of gravity with RAM single-acting hydraulic cylinders!

Single-acting hydraulic cylinders use pressurized fluid to extend the cylinder in one direction using a single port for fluid entry. Retraction is achieved through external gravitational force or a spring return.

RAM can easily incorporate single-acting functionality into our hydraulic cylinder designs. Our customized approach provides options in the best displacement style to meet your requirements.

The simplistic design of these single-acting cylinders can have fewer components, making them easier to maintain and more cost-effective. The straightforward design can often be lighter, which provides an advantage in applications where weight is a concern.

There are many applications that benefit from using single-acting functionality due to their simplicity, reliability, and ability to provide controlled linear motion in a single direction. Some examples include:

  • Lifting mechanism of dump trucks to raise and lower the truck bed for loading and unloading materials.
  • Compressing and reducing the volume of waste materials in dumpsters or garbage trucks.
  • Raising and lowering plows, attachments or equipment’s front loader.
  • Compressing recyclable materials into manageable bales in compactors and balers.
  • Raising and lowering vehicles in repair shops and garages.
  • Bending, stamping, and forming materials through industrial hydraulic presses.

Applications that require force in both directions or the cylinder to hold a load in position may not benefit from a single-acting cylinder design. Since the return stroke relies on external forces, the control over the return movement is more limited. The need for external forces to return the cylinder to its starting position can reduce overall efficiency, especially in repetitive operations. With these limitations, double-acting hydraulic cylinders may be preferred.

With over 50 years of cylinder experience, RAM’s technical expertise can help you determine the best hydraulic cylinder design that will meet your unique performance requirements. Our engineering team works closely with the experts at your organization to understand your application and working environment to make the appropriate recommendations.

RAM’s flexible manufacturing setup simultaneously accommodates multiple cylinder designs, low and high-volume orders, basic to sophisticated machining, and a wide range of cylinder sizes.

RAM Industries can meet your hydraulic cylinder needs for single-acting and double-acting designs.

Contact RAM today!

estimating@ramindustries.com

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Custom Oversized Cylinder Solutions

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   July 28, 2023 08:05

RAM Custom Oversized Cylinders

RAM Custom Oversized cylinders boast remarkable strength and power, enabling them to easily handle heavy loads and challenging tasks. These specialized giants rise to the occasion when standard cylinders fall short, boosting productivity and efficiency.

These tailored hydraulic cylinders exceed standard cylinder dimensions and capabilities. With larger diameter bore sizes or long-stroke hydraulic cylinders, they are designed to support heavier loads, withstand extreme pressures, and perform optimally in unique and demanding applications. Typically, these cylinders are over 8 inches in bore or over 10 feet in stroke length and can be designed for operating pressures up to 5000 PSI.

Precision engineering is at the heart of every RAM Custom Oversized cylinder. RAM’s engineering expertise ensures a high focus on reliability and enhanced safety, resulting in seamless integration durability and reducing the risk of system failures and potential hazards in critical operations. Our team carefully assesses your equipment’s operating conditions to ensure the cylinder design will perform precisely as required.

RAM’s custom approach ensures each cylinder meets your requirements and delivers unparalleled performance. Each component is carefully selected to provide a perfect fit for your application. Our team ensures each element functions reliably, from design configuration to final assembly. Every RAM cylinder is pressure tested at the factory above the required working and shock pressure.

In some cases, opting for oversized cylinders can lead to space optimization as they can replace multiple smaller cylinders, simplifying the design and reducing overall system complexity. With superior force output, these oversized cylinders also often require lower energy input to achieve the desired results, contributing to cost savings and environmental sustainability. Our team works with you to determine the best options for your equipment.

RAM’s Custom Oversized cylinders are used in many different industries and applications.

Construction and Infrastructure: In heavy construction equipment like cranes, excavators, and bulldozers, oversized cylinders handle the immense force required to lift and move massive loads efficiently.

Mining and Oil & Gas: In mining operations and oil rigs, where equipment operates in harsh and rugged environments, these cylinders withstand extreme conditions while ensuring consistent performance.

Manufacturing: Large-scale manufacturing processes often require substantial force for metal shaping, stamping, and forming. Custom oversized cylinders provide the necessary strength and precision for such applications.

Marine and Offshore: In marine vessels and offshore platforms, where space is limited and load capacities are immense, custom oversized cylinders prove indispensable for various tasks, such as steering mechanisms and lifting operations.

Agriculture and Forestry: Agricultural machinery, like harvesters and tractors, as well as forestry equipment, benefit from oversized hydraulic cylinders for their ability to handle heavy loads and navigate challenging terrains.

Aviation and Aerospace: In aviation and aerospace, where precision and reliability are paramount, custom oversized cylinders find applications in aircraft landing gear, cargo loading systems, and space exploration equipment.

Trust RAM Industries to be your cylinder partner as we continue to lead the way in reliable hydraulic solutions!

Contact our team today to see how our oversized custom cylinders can work with your equipment designs.

ESTIMATING@RAMINDUSTRIES.COM

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Hydraulic Cylinder Selection Strategies

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   July 28, 2023 08:00

Selecting the right hydraulic cylinder for your application is critical to ensure optimal performance, productivity and dependability. Having confidence in your cylinder design gives your equipment a competitive advantage.

Our focus at RAM Industries is to partner with you to provide hydraulic cylinder solutions that meet your exact requirements. RAM has 50 years of experience and expanded manufacturing facilities working with many different industries. This knowledge allows us to find practical solutions that can bring value to your equipment’s performance and longevity.


RAM’s engineering support and expertise have allowed us to help countless original equipment manufacturers find efficiencies in their cylinder designs and recommend cylinder solutions for new projects. Our custom approach looks at many different factors that can provide long-term efficiency. This includes:

  • Operating conditions and environment
  • Load and application requirements
  • Hydraulic system pressure ratings
  • Single or double-acting designs
  • Seal selection and configuration
  • Port position flexibility
  • Safety and reliability
  • Mounting options

In addition to design recommendations, RAM knows the importance of identifying and meeting your business objectives.  

Performance Improvements

RAM's engineering team works to understand your application and targeted requirements. We use our extensive design expertise and theoretical calculations to recommend cylinder designs that will optimize performance.

Hydraulic System Space Limitations

RAM can incorporate various space-saving design solutions. Examples include piggy-back or tandem cylinder designs, single or double-acting telescopic cylinders, various mounts and mounting locations, and port options for enhanced hose routing. The result is cylinders engineered to precisely fit your equipment.

Cost Reduction

RAM aims to provide competitive pricing based on specific custom cylinder needs. Our team offers various flexible cost-saving options, including design considerations, breakpoint quantity pricing or blanket purchase orders.

Domestic Cylinder Manufacturing

As a North American manufacturer, RAM is committed to providing high-quality cylinders. RAM’s factory incorporates technological advancements in machining, welding, process equipment, systems and engineering as part of our continued commitment to customer satisfaction.

Manufacturing Capacity

RAM's flexible manufacturing model simultaneously accommodates multiple cylinder designs, low and high-volume orders, basic to sophisticated machining, and a wide range of cylinder sizes. This means there are no limitations to incorporating your order preferences into our production flow.

Regardless of the size of your company, you can trust RAM to collaborate with your team on existing or new cylinder design solutions.

Contact the team at RAM today for your complete hydraulic cylinder solutions!

ESTIMATING@RAMINDUSTRIES.COM

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Top Environmental Benefits of Hydraulic Cylinders

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   June 29, 2023 08:05

Top Environmental Benefits of Hydraulic Cylinders

Protecting our environment is a growing concern. As equipment manufacturers look for ways to minimize their ecological footprint, it’s helpful to understand the environmental benefits of RAM hydraulic cylinders.

1.  Energy Efficiency

Hydraulic cylinders convert fluid power into energy. By harnessing the power of fluid mechanics, hydraulic systems can efficiently transmit force and control movement with minimal energy loss, resulting in lower operating costs and reduced carbon emissions.

2.  Reduced Material Waste

RAM hydraulic cylinders are durable and reliable. Hydraulic cylinders are designed to function even in difficult operating conditions and heavy loads. Quality design and manufacturing, coupled with adequate maintenance reduces the need for repeated replacements. Cylinders are also a sustainable option for industrial applications because of their long lifespan, which results in less material waste and resource usage.

3.  Versatility and Precision

Exceptional control and precision provides smooth and accurate movement in various applications. Eliminating unnecessary movements and ensuring precise control, hydraulic cylinders help optimize processes, reducing waste and energy consumption. This increased effectiveness benefits both the environment and overall productivity and performance.

4.  Sustainable Fluid Options

While most hydraulic cylinders traditionally use petroleum-based fluids, advancements in fluid technology have developed eco-friendly alternatives. Some examples include bio-based or water-based hydraulic fluids. These sustainable fluid options reduce the ecological footprint associated with hydraulic systems, as they are biodegradable, non-toxic, and pose a minimal environmental risk in the event of a leak or a spill. RAM’s custom approach allows us to modify any hydraulic cylinder design to utilize these sustainable fluid alternatives.

5.  Design & Seal Technology

RAM hydraulic cylinders are built using optimized cylinder design, advanced sealing technology and leak prevention methods to reduce the possibility of leaking.

Using correct recycling and waste management techniques with hydraulic cylinders is another consideration to ensure maximum environmental benefit. Components and materials, like metal, can be recycled once a hydraulic cylinder has completed its life cycle. Recycling lessens the need for fresh resources and the environmental impact of the production and extraction processes.

Along with the advantages for the environment, it is essential to understand the risks if they are not properly maintained. If left unattended, hydraulic fluid leakage can contaminate soil and water sources, harming ecosystems. Regular maintenance is of key importance to ensure environment protection.

Contact RAM Industries to learn how we work to reduce the environmental impact of your hydraulic cylinders.

ESTIMATING@RAMINDUSTRIES.COM

 1-877-799-1005

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Piggy-back Hydraulic Cylinders

posted by RAM Industries Inc.    |   June 29, 2023 08:00

Streamlined Efficiency in Piggy-back Cylinders

Piggy-back hydraulic cylinders are a game changer providing optimized efficiency and flexibility. These innovative cylinders provide maximum stroke even where space is constrained.

The robust design of RAM Piggy-back cylinders ensures long-term durability and reliability. They are built to withstand high-pressure conditions, extreme temperatures, and heavy-duty applications while minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

The versatility of piggy-back hydraulic cylinders makes them suitable for a wide range of OEM industries and applications.

  • Material handling equipment like forklifts, cranes, and loaders give the necessary power and stability to lift and transport heavy loads easily.
  • Construction equipment like excavators, backhoes, and bulldozers utilize the lifting capacity and durability essential for the demanding nature of construction tasks.
  • Agricultural machinery like tractors, harvesters, and sprayers assist in raising and lowering implements, controlling steering mechanisms, and powering other hydraulic functions.
  • Waste management equipment like garbage compactors and recycling machines require efficient and consistent operation in demanding waste-handling environments.

Piggy-back hydraulic cylinders are designed with several unique features that set them apart from traditional single-rod cylinders. These features include:

 

  • Dual-cylinder Design - Piggy-back cylinders consist of two cylinders mounted, one on top of the other. The upper cylinder, the piggy-back, is welded to the lower cylinder, creating a compact and robust unit. This design allows for increased stroke length and stability.
  • Space Efficiency - Piggy-back cylinders offer a space-saving advantage due to their compact design. OEMs can optimize space utilization by utilizing a vertical configuration, allowing for more efficient machinery layouts and improved efficiency.
  • Precise Control and Adjustability - Piggy-back cylinders allow for fine control and adjustability, enabling OEMs to achieve specific movements and positioning. This level of control enhances operational efficiency and improves overall productivity. 

RAM’s experienced engineering team can supply piggy-back cylinders tailored to your application. OEMs can choose many options to ensure seamless integration into your equipment designs. Common customization options include:

  • Bore and stroke lengths to match the desired force and stroke requirements
  • Versatile mounting configurations to ensure compatibility with your unique machine layouts
  • Seal configurations to suit specific environmental conditions and operating pressures
  • Different rod end styles seamlessly integrate other components and ensure efficient load transmission
  • Barrel-fed cylinders can incorporate smart sensors 

Despite their advanced features, piggy-back cylinders offer a cost-effective solution for OEMs. The increased lifting capacity and compact design lead to optimized equipment performance and reduced downtime, resulting in improved cost-efficiency over the long term.

RAM Piggy-back cylinders provide a robust and efficient solution for many applications. Optimize your equipment performance by incorporating piggy-back cylinders into your hydraulic systems.

Contact RAM’s experts today!

ESTIMATING@RAMINDUSTRIES.COM

https://www.ramindustries.com/piggy-back-cylinders.aspx

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