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RLS500S - 50 Ton, Low Profile Single-Acting Hydraulic Cylinder

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RLS500S – 50 Ton, Low Profile Single-Acting Hydraulic Cylinder

The Power Team RLS500S is a 50 ton, single-acting, spring-return low-profile hydraulic cylinder designed for high-force applications in confined spaces. It provides a compact closed height of 3.94 inches with a stroke length of 0.63 inches, making it suitable for operations where clearance is limited. The cylinder has an effective piston area of 10.03 in² and an oil capacity of approximately 6.3 in³. Operating at a rated pressure of 10,000 psi, it delivers precise and consistent output force with minimal deflection. The unit features a hardened steel body treated with Power Team’s Power-Tech coating for enhanced corrosion and wear resistance. A standard 3/8 inch NPTF port and coupler connection provide secure and leak-free hydraulic interfacing, while the domed piston design helps accommodate minor misalignments during load application.

Engineered for industrial maintenance and heavy equipment service, the RLS500S excels in applications such as machinery lifting, pressing, and alignment where space restrictions prevent the use of standard-height cylinders. The spring-return mechanism ensures rapid retraction after pressure release, improving operational efficiency in repetitive load cycles. Its low-profile construction allows precise load placement under heavy components while maintaining stability and safety. The robust build and internal bearing surfaces reduce friction and side-load wear, extending service life under continuous duty. Combined with its high tonnage-to-size ratio, the RLS500S provides reliable performance for field service technicians and industrial maintenance operations requiring compact, high-force actuation.

VIEW MORE : SINGLE-ACTING OR LOW-PROFILE

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Product code:

RLS500S

Product code:

50 TON

Product code:

SINGLE ACTING

Product code:

LOW PROFILE

Product code:

0.62 in

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Use Cases

The RLS500S is engineered for heavy-duty maintenance and industrial applications where space constraints prohibit the use of standard-height cylinders. Typical uses include machinery leveling, die separation, structural lifting, and press fitting where high load capacity is required within limited vertical clearance. Its compact design allows operation in maintenance pits, production lines, and assembly stations for alignment or lifting tasks. The RLS500S also serves well in portable hydraulic systems for field repairs, equipment installation, and confined industrial maintenance work.

🔍 Safety and Maintenance Considerations

The RLS500S must be operated exclusively with hydraulic systems rated for 10,000 psi to maintain safety and performance integrity. Operators should verify proper coupling engagement and ensure hoses and fittings are pressure-rated and free of defects before pressurization. The cylinder should always be positioned on a solid, level surface with full piston contact under load to prevent side loading or instability. Off-axis forces or uneven bearing surfaces can cause premature seal wear or structural deformation. Retraction relies on the internal spring; therefore, external loads or obstructions should not restrict the piston’s return travel.

Routine inspection and maintenance are essential for sustaining operational reliability. The cylinder should be regularly checked for hydraulic fluid leaks, corrosion, or mechanical damage. Contamination in hydraulic oil must be avoided to prevent seal degradation and internal scoring.

Lubricate contact points lightly and store the unit fully retracted in a clean, dry environment when not in use. Servicing or disassembly of the RLS500S should only be performed by qualified technicians, as the internal spring is under preload and improper handling may result in component failure or injury.

Capacity: 50 ton
Stroke: 0.62 in
Retracted: height: 2.62 in.
Extended height: 3.25 in.
Effective Area: 9.621 in².
Max pressure: 10,000 psi
Bore size: 3.5 in.
Piston rod diameter: 1.75 in.
Oil capacity: 6.000 in³
Material / construction: Steel cylinder body, treated (“Power Tech” treated) for corrosion & abrasion resistance.
Actuation style: Single-Acting with Spring Return — the cylinder extends hydraulically and returns by internal spring.
Designed: as a “low‐profile” configuration (very short retracted height) for confined or low‐clearance applications.
Standard oil port: 3/8 in NPTF female half‐coupler

Advantages

The low-profile configuration of the RLS500S delivers high output force within a minimal envelope, making it ideal for precision load application in restricted environments. The single-acting, spring-return design ensures simple hydraulic control with automatic piston retraction, reducing setup and operation time. Power Team’s Power-Tech treatment enhances durability by protecting critical surfaces from corrosion and abrasion. The domed piston head minimizes the effects of off-center loading, improving reliability under misaligned conditions. Combined with its robust construction, high power-to-size ratio, and standardized 10,000 psi compatibility, the RLS500S provides long service life and dependable performance in both plant and field applications.

🛠 Considerations / Limitations

Limited stroke: With only ~0.625 in of extension, this cylinder is meant for very small travel or “shim” type lifts rather than large displacement operations.
Single‐acting only (spring return): The return action uses spring rather than hydraulic pressure.
Require suitable hydraulic pump and hoses: Because it’s rated up to 10,000 psi, ensure your pump and hoses are rated and safe for that pressure to achieve full capacity force.
Alignment & off‐centre loading: Although it has a standard swivel cap (for the 50‐150 ton models) to reduce off‐centre loading, you still need to ensure load is well aligned with the piston to avoid side loads and possible damage.

🔍 Typical Applications

Situations where you have to lift or push within a very shallow clearance gap (e.g., under heavy machinery, under base plates, in repair/maintenance operations).
Shim lifting or minor adjustment of heavy components Use in confined or awkward spaces where a taller cylinder couldn’t fit or where limited travel is needed.

🛠 Installation & Safety Tips

Ensure that the base of the cylinder is on a firm, level surface; low profile means less margin for misalignment.
Use the correct rated hoses, couplers, and hydraulic pump; matching the 10,000 psi spec is vital.
Avoid off‐centre loads on the piston. The specification notes effects of off‐centre loading are minimised via swivel cap for 50-150 ton models.
Inspect regularly for signs of wear, leaks, or corrosion. The corrosion/abrasion treatment helps but heavy usage in harsh environments still demands inspection.
Always adhere to manufacturer’s instructions and safety standards. Because at 50 ton force, misuse or failure can be dangerous.

Comparable RLS Series Cylinders (5-100 Tons)

Product	Brand	Tonnage	Stroke	Return Type	Retracted Height	Cylinder Movement	Extended Height	Weight	Cylinder Eff. Area
RLS500S	Power Team	50	0.63	Spring-Return	2.63 in	Single-Acting	3.25	14	9.62
RLS750S	Power Team	75	0.63	Spring-Return	3.13 in	Single-Acting	3.75	23.3	15.9
RLS50	Power Team	5	0.56	Spring-Return	1.63 in	Single-Acting	2.19	2.2	0.99
RLS100	Power Team	10	0.44	Spring-Return	1.75 in	Single-Acting	2.19	3.3	2.24
RLS300	Power Team	30	0.5	Spring-Return	2.31 in	Single-Acting	2.81	8.6	6.49
RLS200	Power Team	20	0.44	Spring-Return	2 in	Single-Acting	2.44	5.6	4.43
RLS1500S	Power Team	150	0.56	Spring-Return	4 in	Single-Acting	4.56	52	30.68
RLS1000S	Power Team	100	0.63	Spring-Return	3.38 in	Single-Acting	4	30	19.64