Collection: Airtec Series ZDPM ISO 6432 Cushioned Pneumatic Cylinders

Technical information & FAQs

Airtec ZDPM Cushioned Pneumatic Cylinders

Airtec Series ZDPM pneumatic cylinders are compact ISO 6432 actuators with adjustable pneumatic end cushioning. They are designed for machines where the piston should decelerate progressively as it approaches the end of its stroke rather than stopping against a simple fixed mechanical bumper.

This makes ZDPM particularly useful on repetitive machinery, handling equipment, fixtures and positioning systems where load, speed or cycle frequency make end-of-stroke shock an important consideration.

For a standard compact round-cylinder design, compare Airtec ZDM pneumatic cylinders. Where a through piston rod is required, see Airtec ZDMK pneumatic cylinders. You can also browse the complete Airtec pneumatic cylinder range.

Why Choose Adjustable Pneumatic Cushioning?

When a pneumatic cylinder reaches the end of its travel, the piston and attached load still carry kinetic energy. Adjustable cushioning allows the exhaust flow near the end position to be restricted so the moving assembly slows before reaching the mechanical stop.

For machinery operating continuously, this can help reduce shock, noise and vibration while lowering the mechanical stress transferred into the pneumatic cylinder mountings and surrounding equipment.

Airtec ZDPM Technical Specification

Manufacturer AIRTEC
Series ZDPM
Product Category Cushioned round pneumatic cylinders
Dimensional Standard ISO 6432
Verified Bore Sizes 16, 20 and 25 mm on standard ZDPM products
Operation Double acting
Cushioning Adjustable pneumatic end cushioning
Position Detection Magnetic piston on standard versions
Head and Foot Anodised aluminium
Cylinder Tube 1.4301 stainless steel
Piston Rod 1.4305 stainless steel on verified standard versions
Seal Material NBR / PUR
Maximum Operating Pressure 10 bar
Standard Temperature Range -20°C to +80°C
Special Versions FKM and stainless-steel ES variants available on selected configurations

Compact Round Construction with Controlled End Stops

ZDPM keeps the slim round-body construction associated with Airtec's small pneumatic cylinder ranges while adding adjustable end-of-stroke deceleration.

This makes it a useful choice where there is little room for a larger profile pneumatic cylinder but the machine still needs better control over the way the piston stops at each end of its travel.

ZDPM Bore Options

The current Airtec product range includes many stroke options within these bores, so the complete manufacturer part number should be used wherever possible when replacing an existing pneumatic cylinder.

Magnetic Position Feedback

Standard ZDPM pneumatic cylinders use a magnetic piston, allowing compatible Airtec switches to detect piston position without mechanical contact.

The combination of adjustable cushioning and magnetic sensing makes ZDPM particularly useful on automated machinery where the control system needs both controlled motion and reliable confirmation of cylinder position.

ZDPM Stainless-Steel ES Versions

Airtec also lists ZDPM ES products with more extensive stainless-steel construction. For example, current Airtec product data includes ZDPM 32/200 ES as a clean-profile stainless-steel pneumatic cylinder. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

These ES variants should remain distinct from standard ZDPM products because the material specification is part of the reason they are selected for the machine.

ZDPM or ZDM?

The main difference is end-of-stroke control.

Airtec ZDM pneumatic cylinders are the simpler standard round-cylinder option. ZDPM pneumatic cylinders add adjustable pneumatic cushioning where smoother deceleration is required.

If a machine was originally designed around ZDPM, replacing it with a non-adjustable alternative may change how the load behaves at the end of the stroke.

ZDPM or ZDMO?

The two series solve completely different problems. ZDPM is selected for adjustable end cushioning, while Airtec ZDMO pneumatic cylinders use a hexagonal anti-rotation piston rod to keep attached tooling aligned.

Where both controlled deceleration and anti-rotation are required, the application should be reviewed against the available Airtec configurations rather than assuming either family provides both features.

Airtec ZDPM Selection Questions

When is adjustable cushioning worth paying for?

It becomes especially useful where the attached mass is moving quickly, the pneumatic cylinder cycles frequently or hard end stops would transmit excessive shock into the machine.

Can I simply replace a ZDPM with a standard ZDM of the same size?

Not without checking the application. The two pneumatic cylinders may share similar dimensions, but ZDPM provides adjustable pneumatic cushioning that standard ZDM does not provide in the same way.

Does ZDPM support magnetic sensors?

Yes on verified standard versions. Compatible Airtec cylinder switches can be used for non-contact position detection.

How do I compare ZDPM with other cushioned mini pneumatic cylinders?

Browse the wider ISO 6432 pneumatic cylinder range or return to the Airtec pneumatic cylinder hub to compare other Airtec designs.

What should I preserve when replacing an ES version?

Keep the complete Airtec MPN and material specification. The ES designation identifies a different construction and should not be removed merely because another ZDPM shares the same bore and stroke.

21 pneumatic cylinder products in this range.