What is the difference between extend and retract force?

Extend (push) force uses the full bore area: A = π/4 × D². Retract (pull) force uses the annular area with the rod subtracted: A = π/4 × (D² − d²). Because the rod reduces the effective area, retract force is always lower than extend force for the same pressure.

What units does this calculator support?

Imperial: bore and rod in inches, pressure in PSI, force in lbf and tons. Metric: bore and rod in mm, pressure in bar or MPa, force in kN and kgf.

Does rod diameter affect extend force?

No. The rod is on the cap end, so extend stroke uses the full bore area regardless of rod size.

How accurate is this calculator?

Results assume 100% mechanical efficiency and ignore friction, seal drag, and back-pressure. Real-world force is typically 90–95% of the calculated value.

What is a typical operating pressure for hydraulic cylinders?

Industrial hydraulic systems usually operate between 1,500 and 3,000 PSI (103–207 bar). High-performance systems can reach 5,000 PSI (345 bar) or more.

Hydraulic Cylinder Force Calculator

Name: Hydraulic Cylinder Force Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter bore diameter, rod diameter, and pressure to get the extend and retract force of any hydraulic cylinder.

Cylinder Parameters

Unit System

Bore Diameter (in)

Rod Diameter (in)

Operating Pressure (PSI)

Enter cylinder dimensions and pressure, then click Calculate Force.

Summary

Enter bore diameter, rod diameter, and pressure to get the extend and retract force of any hydraulic cylinder.

How it works

Enter the bore (cylinder inner) diameter.
Enter the rod diameter (used only for retract force).
Enter the operating pressure.
Choose your preferred unit system (Imperial or Metric).
Read the extend and retract forces from the results panel.

Use cases

Size hydraulic cylinders for press, clamp, or lift applications.
Verify that a cylinder can produce enough force before ordering.
Compare extend vs. retract force when rod area matters.
Check force output when changing operating pressure.
Estimate tonnage for hydraulic presses and jigs.
Validate cylinder specs during machine design review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-11 · Reviewed by Nham Vu