Small but powerful: Precise pneumatic cylinders of series 25A-CJ2 offer even more flexibility in battery manufacturing

The round pneumatic cylinders of series 25A-CJ2 enable space-saving installation and thus reduce time and maintenance costs, even in the battery manufacturing process: (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

In the field of battery cell manufacturing, system components must deliver precise performance in a compact space. The round and flexible pneumatic cylinders of series 25A-CJ2 do not compromise on performance but save space: they feature high precision and, thanks to their small size, enable space-saving installation. With the recently expanded variants, they offer even more flexibility – and as a zinc-/copper-free and explosion-proof model from SMC's 25A range, they are ideal for automated battery production processes.

As part of the 25A portfolio optimized for battery manufacturing by automation specialist SMC, the series 25A-CJ2 possesses special positive characteristics: the pneumatic cylinders use zinc-/copper-free materials, which prevents chemical reactions within the battery cell and ensures quality. Additionally, the series is certified explosion-proof according to ATEX guidelines, which is important during electrolyte filling. It also uses a special lubricant that functions smoothly even in dry environments – such as electrode production or cell assembly.

Easy handling and more flexibility

The series 25A-CJ2 is available with a stroke of up to 400 mm and piston diameters of 10 and 16 mm – and has recently been expanded with the option to connect the cylinder cover vertically to the axis for greater flexibility. Compared to other models, these cylinders primarily reduce assembly time and maintenance costs even in battery manufacturing: fine adjustment of the signal indicator is easily done by loosening the screw. Additionally, only three fastening elements are needed for mounting the signal indicator, and thanks to its transparency, the signal status is easier to read.

A round solution for specialized environments

The round pneumatic cylinders of series 25A-CJ2 can be used not only in battery manufacturing but also in areas such as material handling, general automation, as well as in the packaging, food, and semiconductor industries. Especially due to the numerous variants, the series is particularly suitable for specialized environments like these, where small, space-saving, and highly precise cylinders are required.

To increase precision, the series 25A-CJ2 features a rotation-proof piston rod and a piston guide band that reduces deviation at the piston rod end. Thanks to its wide range of variants, these compact pneumatic cylinders offer comprehensive flexibility: options include elastic or pneumatic damping, standard or through-rod pistons, and single- or double-acting cylinders. In addition to the zinc-/copper-free variants, the series includes models for space-saving direct mounting, with built-in throttling and backshock valves, as well as high-temperature, slow stroke, and multi-position cylinders.

Largest selection for automated processes

The series 25A-CJ2 is part of SMC's 25A portfolio – the largest worldwide for battery manufacturing automation, with 200 basic models. It includes cylinders as well as drives, valves, hoses, connection elements, vacuum products, sensors, switches, and solutions for compressed air preparation, covering all relevant steps: from electrode/cell production through assembly and integration to inspection, packaging, and other processes.

The models with SMC's proprietary suffix 25A limit the use of copper, zinc, and nickel, feature explosion protection according to ATEX guidelines, and are highly corrosion-resistant, suitable for dry environments with dew points down to -80°C. In the expanded portfolio, SMC also offers handy ionizers for reducing electrostatic electricity and powerful cooling and temperature control devices, such as for lasers.