A stop tube is employed to reduce cylinder rod bearing wear caused by what?

A stop tube is used in pneumatic systems to minimize the wear on cylinder rod bearings primarily caused by side loads. When a cylinder operates, especially when under load or when it is subject to lateral forces, side loads can occur that exert unnecessary stress on the bearings and rod. This stress can lead to premature wear or failure of these components.

The introduction of a stop tube provides a physical barrier that helps maintain the alignment of the rod within its bearings. By ensuring that the rod moves in a linear path without deviating, the stop tube effectively reduces the likelihood of side loads. This mechanical stabilization is crucial because it directly correlates to the lifespan and reliability of the cylinder in operation.

In contrast, other factors such as overheating, overspeeds, and low air pressure can affect cylinder performance but are not predominantly addressed by the implementation of a stop tube. These issues may require other forms of engineering solutions, such as cooling mechanisms for overheating, speed controls for overspeeds, or pressure regulation for low air pressure.