How to choose an ISO 15552 pneumatic cylinder?
ISO 15552 is the standard for double-acting profile and tie-rod cylinders and guarantees interchangeability between makers. Four parameters drive the choice: bore sets the force, stroke the travel, mounting the connection and cushioning the end-of-stroke protection. This guide shows how to combine them correctly.
Explore Pneumatics & HydraulicsWhat is ISO 15552 and what does it deliver?
ISO 15552 defines the mounting and port dimensions of double-acting pneumatic cylinders in profile or tie-rod design. As a result, cylinders from different makers with the same bore and mounting are interchangeable without rework. The standard consolidates the former ISO 6431 and VDMA 24562 specifications and is today the industry standard for this design.
A double-acting cylinder is pressurised on both sides of the piston and therefore produces force in both directions. Standardised items include the bore, rod thread, mounting pattern and port positions - but not every internal component.
Which bore and stroke do I need?
Bore sets the force, stroke sets the travel. Theoretical force follows from F = p x A, that is operating pressure times piston area. At 6 bar a 32 mm bore delivers about 480 N and a 100 mm bore about 4710 N. Choose the bore with reserve above the required load.
Stroke is freely selectable and defined by the application. For long strokes and side loads, check the buckling of the piston rod; a larger bore or a guide unit helps here. Friction and back pressure reduce usable force, so a safety margin is advisable.
| Bore | Piston area | Push force at 6 bar | Rod thread | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 mm | approx. 8.0 cm2 | approx. 480 N | M10x1.25 | Light handling, short feeds |
| 40 mm | approx. 12.6 cm2 | approx. 750 N | M12x1.25 | All-rounder for assembly and transport |
| 50 mm | approx. 19.6 cm2 | approx. 1180 N | M16x1.5 | Medium clamping and lifting tasks |
| 63 mm | approx. 31.2 cm2 | approx. 1870 N | M16x1.5 | Higher forces, robust applications |
| 80 mm | approx. 50.3 cm2 | approx. 3020 N | M20x1.5 | Heavy loads, presses |
| 100 mm | approx. 78.5 cm2 | approx. 4710 N | M20x1.5 | High forces, long feeds |
Which mounting is the right one?
The mounting per ISO 15552 depends on how the load moves. Fixed applications use foot or flange mounts; swivelling movements use clevis or trunnion mounts. All variants follow the standardised hole pattern, so accessories fit across makers.
| Mounting | ISO code | Feature | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foot mount | MS1 / MS2 | Angle brackets for side mounting | Fixed mounting on a base plate |
| Front/rear flange | MF1 / MF2 | Rectangular flange on the end cap | Rigid face-end connection |
| Clevis mount | MP2 / MP4 | Clevis or eye at the cylinder base | Swivelling motion in one plane |
| Trunnion | MT4 | Pivots at the housing centre | Tilting motion about a transverse axis |
What to check for cushioning and rod?
End-of-stroke cushioning protects the cylinder from a hard impact at high speed. Pneumatically adjustable cushioning (PPV) is common. In addition, select the rod thread, sensor slots for end-position sensing and seals matched to the medium and temperature.
Actuation is usually handled by a solenoid valve; our guide to solenoid valve functions explains the right switching function.
Frequently asked questions
Are ISO 15552 cylinders from different makers interchangeable?
Yes. The standard fixes the mounting and connection dimensions, so bore, stroke, mounting and rod thread match across makers.
How do I calculate cylinder force?
Use F = p x A: operating pressure times piston area. Extending uses the full piston area; retracting uses the smaller annular area reduced by the rod.
What was ISO 6431?
ISO 6431 and VDMA 24562 were the predecessor standards. ISO 15552 consolidates them and is today the standard for profile and tie-rod cylinders.
Need the right ISO 15552 cylinder?
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