The single-acting spring return cylinder is extended by what force?

The single-acting spring return cylinder is a type of pneumatic actuator that uses air pressure to extend the cylinder and a spring mechanism for retraction. When pressure is applied to the cylinder, it acts on the piston, generating the force needed to extend the cylinder. This pressure can be sourced from a pneumatic system, making it the key factor in the cylinder's extension.

This type of cylinder is designed to perform work during the extension phase while relying on the internal spring to return the piston once the air pressure is released. Therefore, it is the pressure from the compressed air that is responsible for the movement of the piston to extend the cylinder. The correct understanding of this mechanism is essential for recognizing how pneumatic systems operate, especially when analyzing their components and functionality.