Fujikura KS Series cylinders A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Fujikura KS Series is a classic line of ultra-compact cylinders renowned in the high-precision automation field for its ingenious design, high rigidity, high reliability, and abundant options. It is particularly suited for applications where installation space is limited.

I. Core Features & Advantages

1. Ultra-Compact Design:

• Compared to traditional ISO standard cylinders, the KS Series features a significantly smaller external size (especially the cross-sectional area) for the same bore size, achieving maximum space savings. This is its most prominent advantage.

2. High Rigidity & Strength:

• The cylinder tube is made from hard-anodized aluminum alloy with high-strength die-cast end covers, giving the cylinder exceptionally high overall rigidity, and resistance to bending and torque, enabling it to withstand substantial lateral loads.

3. High Performance & Low Friction:

• The piston seal utilizes low-friction material lip seals, ensuring smooth startup, steady movement, and low air consumption.

• The piston rod seal employs high-performance polyurethane seals, offering excellent sealing and durability.

4. Rich Mounting Options:

• Offers a variety of internationally standard mounting styles, such as basic型 (type), foot mounting, front/rear flange, clevis, center trunnion, etc. (typically distinguished by the -B*suffix code), allowing users to choose flexibly based on application needs.

5. Magnetic Switch Function:

• The cylinder body usually has pre-embedded T-slots for installing magnetic switches (sensors) to detect piston position and provide signal feedback at the end of the stroke. Magnetic switch configuration is flexible, options include none pre-installed (S0), one pre-installed (S1), or two pre-installed (S2).

6. Application Fields:

• Widely used in equipment with extremely high demands for space and precision, such as:

◦ Semiconductor manufacturing equipment

◦ Electronic component assembly equipment

◦ Medical analysis instruments

◦ Industrial robot end-effectors

◦ Precision measurement and inspection equipment

◦ Packaging machinery

II. Model Numbering Rule Explanation (Using KSCS-63-78-S0-B0 as an example)

The KS Series model numbers follow a clear rule, where each part represents a specific meaning:

• KS: Series code, representing Fujikura Compact Cylinder.

• C: Sub-series code, representing Standard Double-Acting Compact Cylinder. This is the most common type.

• S: Bore Size Code. The "S" here needs to be viewed together with the following number. 63indicates a bore size of 63mm.

• 63: Bore Size (Bore Diameter). Determines the output force. Common bore sizes include: 12, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100 mm.

• 78: Stroke. The maximum distance the piston rod travels, in mm. Can be customized within a certain range according to需求 (requirements).

• S0: Magnetic Switch (Sensor) Configuration.

◦ S0: Magnetic switch not pre-installed.

◦ S1: 1 magnetic switch pre-installed.

◦ S2: 2 magnetic switches pre-installed.

• B0: Mounting Bracket Type.

◦ B0: No mounting bracket included (cylinder body only).

◦ B1: Basic type base / Foot mounting.

◦ B2: Front flange.

◦ B3: Rear flange.

◦ B4: Clevis mounting.

◦ B7: Center trunnion mounting.

◦ (Note: Please refer to the latest official Fujikura selection manual for precise code meanings.)

III. Main Sub-Series & Model Examples

The KS Series mainly includes the following sub-series, distinguished by the second letter in the model number:

1. KSC® - Standard Compact Cylinder (Double-Acting)

This is the most basic and commonly used series.

• Features: Standard double-acting structure, single-ended piston rod.

• Common Model Examples:

◦ KSCS-12-20-S0-B0 (Bore 12mm, Stroke 20mm)

◦ KSCS-20-50-S2-B2 (Bore 20mm, Stroke 50mm, 2 switches, Front flange)

◦ KSCS-32-100-S1-B4 (Bore 32mm, Stroke 100mm, 1 switch, Clevis mounting)

◦ KSCS-40-75-S0-B0

◦ KSCS-50-30-S2-B3

◦ KSCS-63-200-S0-B7 (Bore 63mm, Stroke 200mm, Center trunnion)

◦ KSCS-80-150-S0-B0

◦ KSCS-100-50-S0-B0

2. KST® - Guided Cylinder (Slide Cylinder)

• Features: Incorporates precision guide rods in addition to the standard cylinder, enabling it to withstand significant moments and lateral loads, prevent piston rod rotation, and achieve high-precision positioning.

• Model Examples:

◦ KSTC-20-50-S0-B0 (Bore 20mm guided cylinder)

◦ KSTC-32-30-S2-B0

3. KSR® - Rodless Cylinder

• Features: The piston is directly connected to an external slider. The structure is short in length, saving space. The piston drives the external slider via magnetic or mechanical coupling.

• Model Examples:

◦ KSRC-16-500-S0 (Bore 16mm, Stroke 500mm rodless cylinder)

4. KSQ® - Twin Rod Cylinder

• Features: Features two parallel piston rods, offering higher rigidity, greater torque resistance, and more stable movement.

• Model Examples:

◦ KSQC-20-100-S0-B0

5. Other Variants

Also includes Compact Thin Cylinders (KSP), Rotary Clamping Cylinders (KSL), etc., to meet various special functional needs.

IV. Selection Considerations

1. Confirm Bore Size and Stroke: Determine based on load and required movement distance.

2. Select Mounting Style: Choose the most suitable bracket (B code) based on the available space and force conditions on the equipment.

3. Decide Sensor Requirements: Is position feedback needed? How many detection points are required? (S code)

4. Check Port Size: Confirm the port thread specification (e.g., M5, Rc1/8).

5. Consider Alternatives: In the automation field, SMC's CJ2 Series and MiSUMi's CCS Series are direct competitors and common substitutes for the KS Series, sharing very similar design philosophies and dimensions.

Recommendation: For critical applications, always consult the latest official Fujikura product catalog or use their online selection software to obtain the most accurate dimensions, performance parameters, and model codes.