Hydraulic cylinders in agriculture as a useful aid for farmers

Agriculture is one of the largest users of hydraulic systems. The PTO shaft with a connectable hydraulic pump is part of the basic equipment of every tractor.

In addition to the large number of hydraulically operated devices, there are also many applications in which the hydraulic cylinder is used on its own in agriculture.

Function of a Hydraulic Cylinder

A hydraulic cylinder consists of the following components:

• Outer tube
• Internal piston
• Seals

The piston located inside the outer tube is movable. When hydraulic oil flows through the inlet valve into the cylinder, it pushes the piston outward. The cylinder “extends”. The retraction of the piston depends on the cylinder type.

A distinction is made between single-acting and double-acting hydraulic cylinders. In single-acting cylinders, the piston requires an external force to retract. Typical examples include hydraulic lifts or the boom arm of an excavator. In agriculture, double-acting hydraulic cylinders are primarily used. This means they retract with the same force they can provide when extending.

Use of Hydraulic Cylinders in Agriculture

Today, hydraulic cylinders are installed as standard at the front and rear of the tractor. At the front, there are two mounts where a lifting gear can be attached. This allows, for example, hay bales to be loaded or the tractor to be converted into a wheel loader.

The hydraulics at the rear serve to lift the installed attachments. This is very important for plows, harrows, and rollers, for example. The farmer can thus lower the equipment and use it for soil cultivation only when needed. Depending on the tractor’s equipment, the entire tractor can also be converted into a forklift using the rear lift.

Tractor attachments are often equipped with comprehensive hydraulics including cylinders. Typical applications:

• Folding mechanism of field sprayers
• Backhoes
• Lifting gear for earth augers
• Kinematics for mowers and cutter bars
  

The Hydraulic Cylinder as a Tool

Loose, individual hydraulic cylinders are also widely used in agriculture. They are a practical tool when a large force needs to be applied at a specific point. Telescopic cylinders are particularly popular here. Instead of a rigid piston, these have an extending telescope. This makes the cylinder very flat when retracted, allowing it to be pushed optimally under loads. Common uses for telescopic cylinders:

• Recovery of fallen trees
• Clearing of rocks
• Lifting of damaged agricultural vehicles
• Prying open jammed barn doors

Tips for Handling Hydraulic Cylinders in Agriculture

In agriculture, hydraulic cylinders are usually only used temporarily. As soon as the cylinder and coupling are disconnected, both sides should be sealed with the intended protective caps. The hose, coupling, and cylinder should always be from the same manufacturer. This avoids damage to the internal coupling mechanism.

When using hydraulics, the utmost cleanliness should always be maintained. All connections of the individual components must be cleaned before connecting.