Hydraulic Cylinder Force Calculator
Calculate extend and retract forces for hydraulic cylinders based on bore diameter, rod diameter, and system pressure.
Inputs
in
in
psi
Results
Extend Force (Push)
37,699 lb
Retract Force (Pull)
28,274 lb
Bore Area12.57 in²
Rod Area3.14 in²
Annular Area9.42 in²
Speed Ratio (Ret/Ext)1.33
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the Bore Diameter in inches — the inside diameter of the cylinder barrel. Standard industrial sizes range from 1.5" to 14".
- Enter the Rod Diameter in inches. The rod must be smaller than the bore; typically 50–70% of the bore diameter.
- Enter the System Pressure in psi — standard industrial hydraulics operate at 3,000 psi; mobile equipment up to 5,000 psi.
- Read the Extend Force (Push) in lb — this is the full bore area times pressure, providing maximum push force.
- Read the Retract Force (Pull) in lb — lower than extend force because pressure acts only on the annular area.
- Use the Speed Ratio to understand that retract stroke will be faster than extend at the same pump flow rate.
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