Parker's 3MA and 4MA Non-Lube NFPA Air Cylinders Deliver Superior Performance and Value for the Packaging Market and More

The new 3MA and 4MA series of non-lube NFPA air cylinders from Parker's Pneumatic Division have evolved from the current 2MA series air cylinder, the backbone of the aluminum cylinder industry for the past 13 years.

This new, improved cylinder platform features three distinct versions:

• 3MA - a general, all-purpose version designed to meet most market demands
• 4MA - a flexible construction version designed to complement the 3MA
• 3MAJ/4MAJ - rod-lock versions for load-holding and safety demands

The 3MA, which covers 60 to 70 percent of customer applications, is available in 1-1/8" to 5" bores with standard rod sizes. It offers 250 psi air service at standard temperatures and a 1,100 psi hydraulic service option (3ML) for the 1-1/8" bore.

The 4MA, a customizable, removable gland cylinder, is available in 1-1/2" to 8" bores with standard and oversized rods. It delivers 250 psi air service and 400 psi hydraulic service (4ML) at standard, high and low temperatures.

The 3MAJ/4MAJ rod-lock cylinders are available in 1-1/2" to 8" bores with standard and oversize rods.

These cylinders are ideal for markets such as packaging, material handling, conveying, food and beverage, pulp and paper, semiconductor, automotive assembly, metal forming and medical products manufacturing, to name a few.

All versions of the platform offer superior performance from efficient design, reduced weight, low friction and advanced sealing technology.

The 3MA has an average weight reduction of 15% (and 5% for the 4MA) when compared to typical aluminum cylinder construction. This is achieved through appropriate use of lighter, high-strength composites as a qualified substitute for traditional, heavier metals.

All moving components are designed for low friction. The use of self-lubricating rounded-lip seals and composite components yield low friction at zero leakage. Less friction results in less wear, so cycle life is maximized.

Bores from 1-1/8" to 5" are called "sensor-ready" because they include a magnetic piston ring and integrated sensor grooves in the cylinder body as standard. Sensors drop in to these grooves for simple, inexpensive assembly and protection.

The standard construction for 1-1/2" to 5" bores accommodates almost every NFPA mount as an accessory. Mountings that are factory-fitted to the cylinder are also available. The 3MA and 4MA are completely recyclable. Proven exterior toughness features include anodized aluminum endcaps and cylinder body; zinc-plated endcap fasteners; outboard "molythane" rod wiper and case-hardened, hard chrome-plated piston rods. Stainless steel piston rods and fasteners are available.

With annual sales exceeding $10 billion, Parker Hannifin is the world's leading diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of commercial, mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. The company employs more than 57,000 people in 43 countries around the world. Parker has increased its annual dividends paid to shareholders for 51 consecutive years, among the top five longest-running dividend-increase records in the S&P 500 index. For more information, visit the company's web site at http://www.parker.com, or its investor information site at http://www.phstock.com.