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Hydraulic Cylinders — Carbon Hybrid

MARK carbon hybrid cylinders are the best of both worlds. Classic, high-strength metal (such as aluminum or steel) combined with lightweight, high-performance carbon fiber (CFRP).

Advantages at a Glance:

  • Higher efficiency of the cylinder due to:
  • Shorter cycle times
  • Lower mass acceleration and deceleration
  • Fewer CO₂ emissions during operation for better sustainability efforts
  • Higher payload (more load capacity) due to weight savings
  • Preservation of tribological properties meaning less wear on components
  • Less mass, less energy required, lower fuel consumption
  • Corrosion resistant, as carbon is not susceptible to rust or chemicals

What does carbon hybrid mean?

Precision-manufactured components such as pistons, rod guides, and cylinder bases are made of aluminum or steel for maximum resilience and durability. The inner tube, or the liner, is made of extremely thin steel (for example, on a micro-cylinder, the liner is only 0.4 mm thick), ensuring optimum tightness and precise sealing clearance.

The carbon hybrid comes from the fact that all cylinder parts are fully wrapped in carbon fiber. This carbon wrap is the only thing that connects the end pieces, such as the rod guide and cylinder base, and thus means optimal functioning of the cylinder. The carbon fiber is the structural connector, as opposed to welding, gluing or threading.

Why carbon?

  • High strength: Extremely resistant to tension and compression, ideal for load-bearing structures
  • High rigidity: High modulus of elasticity, advantageous for dynamic loads
  • Low density: Significantly lighter than steel or aluminum, saves weight and energy
  • Corrosion resistance: Rust-free and resistant to many chemicals
  • Good damping behavior: Effectively reduces vibrations and oscillations
  • Fatigue resistance: Stable despite repeated loads, less material fatigue
  • X-ray transparency: Permeable to X-rays, ideal for medical technology & aviation
  • Customizable properties: Fiber orientation & resin matrix can be precisely matched to the application
  • Adjustable thermal expansion: Minimized thermal expansion for precise components

Where Carbon Hybrid Cylinders make a difference

Because our carbon fiber cylinders are up to 70% lighter than traditional steel cylinders, using these components reduces energy consumption leading to measurable cost savings over time.

Below are some areas where our light-weight construction can really make a difference:

Application

Where carbon fiber makes a difference

How it makes a difference

Lifting platforms

Load moment

Reducing weight allows the platform to lift more or lift more safely, because the structure needs to support less self-weight

Transportation

Deadweight

Reducing deadweight increases potential payload capacity, reduces fuel usage, and improves efficiency

Agricultural technology

Load moment, corrosion

Lighter components improve load moments on AG machinery, and because carbon fiber does not corrode, these cylinders are strong in this environment where moisture, dirt, and chemicals are prevalent

Maritime

Weight, corrosion

Lightweight components improve stability and efficiency, while corrosion resistance is critical due to saltwater environments

Exoskeletons, tools

Micro-cylinders

Our small, lightweight micro-cylinders are optimal in wearable exoskeletons or handheld tools, where low weight is essential for ergonomics and mobility

E-mobility

Weight reduction

In electric vehicles, every kilogram saved increases range and efficiency, making lightweight components highly valuable

Rescue cylinders

Weight

Lightweight, powerful cylinders make rescue tools easier to handle for emergency responders, improving speed and safety during operations

MARK LIGHT is a supplier and hydraulic cylinder manufacturer for various applications including maritime, agricultural, mobility, and transport.

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