Tandem, High-Force & Multi-Position Cylinders

Festo Tandem, High-Force & Multi-Position Cylinders

These advanced pneumatic cylinders from Festo deliver higher force output, multi-step motion control, and versatile positioning by combining two or more cylinder chambers into a single compact actuator. They are ideal for applications where conventional single piston-rod cylinders are insufficient in terms of power or motion complexity.

The product family includes:

• Tandem cylinders – double piston arrangement for increased force
• High-force cylinders – maximum thrust output in compact dimensions
• Multi-position cylinders – two or more defined stroke positions in a single actuator

These cylinders enable improved productivity, reduced machine footprint, and enhanced control over complex pneumatic movements.

⭐ Important: These special-function cylinders provide up to 2× or 3× more force, multiple fixed positions, and space savings, making them essential for advanced automation tasks.

Design & Functionality

• Tandem cylinders combine two pistons in line, doubling the effective thrust compared to a single cylinder.
• High-force versions use multiple pistons or enlarged bore diameters for maximum power in restricted installation spaces.
• Multi-position cylinders combine multiple chambers with independent actuation, enabling two-position or even three-position stroke capabilities.
• The robust cylinder design supports reinforced bearings, optimized seals, and precise cushioning to guarantee long service life.
• Integrated sensor slots allow exact monitoring of each piston position for reliable automation control.

⭐ Important: These cylinders consolidate multiple actuators into one unit — dramatically reducing mechanical complexity and installation space.

Total Crossed Beams

(Concept applied to multi-chamber synchronization)

• Multi-piston synchronization ensures smooth, aligned motion across all chambers.
• Guarantees stable force output and precise transitions between stroke positions.
• Supports high-speed cycling without loss of repeatability.

Beam Pitch Options

(Translated into force variants, stroke lengths, and multi-position configurations)

• Available in a wide range of bore sizes (commonly 32 mm to 125 mm or more).
• Stroke lengths vary from short switching distances to long multi-step travel.
• Configurations include:
  • Tandem (2 × force)
  • Multi-tandem (3 × force)
  • 2-position cylinders
  • 3-position multi-stroke versions
• Flexible cushioning options (self-adjusting or adjustable) support smooth performance even under high loads.

⭐ Important: The multiple configuration choices ensure these cylinders can be tailored for precise multi-stop positioning or extreme force requirements.

Intrinsic Synchronism

• Internal chamber design ensures that pistons operate in perfect coordination.
• Prevents misalignment and ensures consistent linear motion.
• Provides superior repeatability in multi-step movements and high-force operations.

Operational Advantages

• High output force for pressing, clamping, punching and forming applications
• Multi-position capability reduces the need for complex mechanical stops
• Compact design replaces multiple cylinders with one integrated solution
• Accurate and repeatable motion due to internal synchronization
• Applications: Heavy-duty pressing, clamping, multi-step motion control, assembly automation, packaging machines, and process equipment requiring multiple defined positions.