Cylinders are the most common type of hydraulic actuator. They convert hydraulic energy to mechanical energy in order to perform work. Cylinders produce linear motion (straight line motion or force) used to operate buckets, blades, booms, and other implements.
The most common types of cylinders are the single acting cylinder and double acting cylinder. The double-acting cylinder is used on implements, steering, and other systems in which the cylinder is required to perform work in both directions.