How does force generation differ in pull vs push cylinders?

 The push (compression) strokes create greater force over the pull (tension/retraction) strokes within this same hydraulic cylinder since the extend stroke utilizes the entire piston area and the retracting stroke utilizes the smaller annular space remaining after deducting the rod's diameter; that is, the same pressure exerted on a smaller area results in less force. This is asymmetry that is present in the cylinders of every single rod and is directly affecting the way engineers design sequence circuits, cylinders, and troubleshoot systems that are not performing. 

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