Pneumatic Cylinders Used in the Food & Beverage Industry

The food and beverage industry demands equipment that is hygienic, corrosion-resistant, and reliable under continuous operation. Pneumatic cylinders are widely used across this sector due to their clean operation and ability to perform high-speed movements with minimal wear. From processing to packaging, here are the most suitable types of pneumatic cylinders for food & beverage applications.

Compact Pneumatic Cylinders

Compact cylinders are designed for applications where space is limited but performance is still essential. Despite their short body length, they deliver impressive force and fast response times. In the food and beverage industry, these are often found in machines responsible for sealing trays, closing cartons, or pushing product into packaging. Their enclosed design helps minimise the collection of food particles or debris, while stainless-steel or anodised options enhance corrosion resistance.

Why:
Their small footprint allows for integration into tight machine frames or mobile units. Compact cylinders help manufacturers optimise their line layout, especially in high-density packaging environments.

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ISO 15552 Profile Cylinders

ISO 15552 profile cylinders are a standard in industrial automation. They feature a modular design, with channels for mounting sensors and accessories, and are available in a range of bore sizes and strokes. In food and beverage operations, they’re used for heavier-duty tasks like driving pneumatic arms, pushing conveyor diverts, or actuating lifting platforms. When made from stainless steel or coated for washdown environments, they become a reliable powerhouse suited to more demanding areas of the plant.

Why:
Their adaptability and long service life make them ideal for 24/7 operations. Whether it's powering a palletiser or controlling heavy product handling systems, profile cylinders offer both strength and precision.

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Rodless Pneumatic Cylinders

Rodless cylinders provide linear motion without an extending piston rod. The piston inside the cylinder moves a carriage that travels along the body, offering full-stroke capability in a compact form. In food and beverage facilities, these are ideal for sliding trays, crates, or containers between stages of a process without taking up excess space. Their enclosed design is also easier to protect from contamination and cleaning overspray.

Why:
Rodless cylinders eliminate the risk of an exposed rod catching debris or interfering with other machine parts. Their long-stroke capability is perfect for moving product across conveyors or between packaging stations while keeping the layout clean and efficient.

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Cylinders in the Food and Beverage Industry

Hygienic Design 

Our range of pneumatic cylinders is purpose-built for the food and beverage industry. With smooth finishes and stainless steel construction, they meet strict hygiene standards, making them ideal for applications that require regular washdowns and contamination control.

Consistent, High-Speed Performance

From bottling lines to food packaging systems, our pneumatic cylinders deliver precise and repeatable motion control. Their robust design ensures smooth operation even in high-speed and high-volume environments, reducing the risk of downtime and boosting overall productivity.

Built to Last, Easy to Maintain

Designed with durability in mind, these cylinders offer long service life with minimal maintenance requirements. Whether you're automating a new system or replacing outdated components, they provide a cost-effective and dependable solution in the most demanding production settings.

Key Features

  • Stainless steel construction for hygiene and corrosion resistance

  • Designed for high-speed, high-cycle operations

  • Compatible with food-grade lubricants and materials

FAQ'S

1. Why are stainless steel pneumatic cylinders preferred in food and beverage applications?

Answer:
Stainless steel cylinders are highly resistant to corrosion and can withstand regular washdowns, cleaning agents, and high-humidity environments. They also feature smooth, non-porous surfaces that prevent bacterial build-up, making them compliant with hygiene regulations. This makes them ideal for use in both direct food contact zones and splash areas within food and beverage production facilities.

2. Can pneumatic cylinders be used in high-speed packaging lines?

Answer:
Yes, pneumatic cylinders are ideal for high-speed operations such as carton forming, sealing, labelling, and sorting. Their fast actuation times and reliable cycling performance make them a perfect fit for continuous packaging applications. Compact and ISO-profile cylinders are especially common in these environments due to their responsiveness and consistent motion control.

3. What features should I look for in cylinders used in washdown areas?

Answer:
For washdown environments, look for cylinders with stainless steel construction, IP-rated seals, and smooth, crevice-free surfaces. These features ensure resistance to water, cleaning agents, and bacteria build-up. Cylinders should also be compatible with CIP/SIP processes and have FDA-compliant materials where food contact may occur.

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Food & Beverage Processing Pneumatic Cylinders