Abstract: A cutting apparatus for cutting steel rod into predetermined lengths. The apparatus has a feed track and a discharge track at opposite sides of a shearing unit, the discharge track having a number of stops which may be located at selected spacings. The shear unit is adjustable between the tracks whereby an adjustable intermediate track is located between the shear unit and the entry to the discharge track according to the position of the shears.

Abstract: Hydro-pneumatic shock absorber of the kind comprising a fluid-containing cylinder which is divided into two chambers of variable volume by a piston mounted on a piston rod, there being also provided a compensation chamber for displaced fluid, a compressed gas pressure being maintained within said compensation chamber, wherein the aforesaid piston is secured to the middle of the piston rod which projects through a gland at each end of the cylinder, at least one of said two chambers of variable volume communicating with said compensation chamber by means of a communication port.

Abstract: A piston and cylinder unit, such as a shock absorber which can be filled with pressurised gas. The piston rod is hollow and extends through a seal to communicate with the interior of the cylinder via a bore. The outer end of the hollow rod is adapted for connection to a source of pressurised fluid to permit pressurisation from the exterior across the seal. The piston rod may be integral or have a separate hollow portion for temporary connection thereto when the cylinder is to be pressurised.