Oleo-pneumatic suspension cylinder
HIDRACAR oleo-pneumatic suspension cylinders are the ideal oleo-pneumatic suspension system for application in truck and tractor towed load trailers, tanker trailers for the transport of liquids and slurries and fumigation tank trailers. They are suitable for weights from 0.5 Tm to 30 Tm.
Description and Performance of our Suspension Cylinders
- Easier and quicker installation in the vehicle compared to leaf spring suspensions, with no connection to the hydraulic circuit of the tractor needed (the accumulator nitrogen charge is determined by a simple calculation made by HIDRACAR, S.A.).
- Reduced suspension full stroke between an empty vehicle and a fully loaded one. This smoother suspension reduces considerably the forces of inertia and, consequently, the whole chassis of the vehicle, as well as all kind of welded unions, are freed of overstresses (which are the origin of premature breakage).
- The suspension remains smooth no matter how loaded the vehicle is, unlike with leaf spring suspensions, which are calculated for the maximum load and, therefore, produce no suspension when empty (which is precisely when the vehicle runs faster and needs it the most).
- Suspension cylinders suitable for vehicles with a fully loaded /empty ratio equal or higher than 2.5.
- Eliminates the continuous rebound effect produced by leaf springs or coil shock absorbers, for a much more comfortable driving.
- Compared to the solution provided by a hydraulic cylinder connected through a flexible hose to an oleo-pneumatic accumulator, HIDRACAR oleo-pneumatic suspension cylinders takes far less time to install and saves the cost of all the extra accessories and work needed (collar to fasten the accumulator to the chassis, flexible hose, joint nuts, filling the circuit with oil and air purging, etc…)
Advanced Technology: The Integrated Accumulator and Progressive Force
The superior performance of our suspension cylinders stems from their fundamental operating principle, which combines gas (pneumatic) and oil (hydraulic) forces in a single, compact unit. This design creates a system that is far more advanced than traditional mechanical springs.
- Built-In Accumulator Effect: At the heart of each HIDRACAR cylinder is a gas chamber pre-charged with nitrogen. This chamber functions as an integrated accumulator, storing energy and releasing it in a controlled manner. When the wheel hits a bump, the energy is absorbed by compressing the nitrogen, which acts as a cushion. This accumulator effect is what provides the famously smooth ride and protects the vehicle structure from shock loads, directly contributing to the reduction of inertia forces and overstresses mentioned in our performance description.
- Non-Linear Reaction Force for Superior Performance: This is the key differentiator that sets our cylinders apart from leaf and coil springs. A traditional spring provides a linear reaction force—the resistance increases at a constant rate as the spring compresses. Our oleo-pneumatic cylinders, however, provide a non-linear reaction force. The resistance follows the curve of gas compression, meaning it is progressive:
- Soft Initial Stroke: For small bumps and minor vibrations, the system remains soft and compliant, ensuring comfort and maintaining tire contact with the road.
- Progressively Firmer Response: As the load increases or the impact becomes more severe, the gas compresses further, and the reaction force rises more steeply. This intelligent progression prevents the suspension from bottoming out under heavy loads and provides exceptional stability, exactly why our suspension remains effective and smooth regardless of the vehicle's load.
Extended Applications and Industries
The benefits of our oleo-pneumatic suspension cylinders make them suitable for a wide range of heavy-duty and specialized applications beyond the mentioned trailers, including:
- Construction and Mining Equipment: Essential for dump trucks, excavators, and other heavy machinery operating on rough, uneven terrain, where extreme shocks are constant.
- Specialized Trucking: Ideal for vehicles carrying high-value or fragile cargo that requires maximum protection from road vibrations and impacts.
- Industrial and Agricultural Machinery: Provides stability and comfort for forklifts, harvesters, and tractors, improving operator efficiency and handling.
- Bus and Mass Transit: Enhances passenger comfort by effectively damping high-frequency vibrations from urban roads and bus lanes.
Why Choose HIDRACAR for Your Suspension Needs?
HIDRACAR leverages deep expertise in hydraulic and pneumatic engineering to design suspension solutions that offer tangible performance and economic advantages. Our integrated oleo-pneumatic suspension cylinders are not just components; they are complete systems designed to reduce your maintenance costs, extend vehicle lifespan, and improve operator comfort and safety. The combination of easier installation, robust performance, and the inherent benefits of a progressive, non-linear force makes HIDRACAR the smart choice for modern transport challenges.
Upgrade to a Superior Suspension Cylinder System
Experience the difference that advanced oleo-pneumatic technology can make. Move beyond the limitations of linear springs and enjoy the smooth, stable, and protective ride that our cylinders provide. Explore our product range or contact our technical team today to find the ideal suspension solution for your specific vehicle and load requirements.