When one considers the large number and the regularity of quotation requests and inquiries that Sheffer receives, it can be seen that there are many users of hydraulic cylinders that have applications requiring stainless steel construction. Typically, these requests and inquiries address N.F.P.A. hydraulic cylinders with stainless steel construction and (in referencing the N.F.P.A.) it appears that some users are under the assumption that stainless steel hydraulic cylinders will have the same pressure ratings and dimensional interchangeability as Sheffer’s conventional product lines, in particular “HH” and “MH” Series.

It doesn’t matter where you come from, or what you call them, the arrangement of components, which hopefully bring a cylinder to a graceful stop at the end of its stroke is a useful bit of kit – provided it works right first time and every time!

Sheffer calls them cushions – but it’s surprising what names other people have developed for exactly the same thing. The range of names may well be cultural or more likely regional; whatever the reason, if somebody mentions a gag, or a choke, or any other word of a similar nature, it’s probably worth asking if they are talking about a cushion.

The process of choosing the right hydraulic cylinder for your specific application may seem routine or even repetitive at times, but it's important to maintain a fresh outlook in beginning this process and to always remember to consider several basic components.