Abstract: A self-bleeding multi-stage or single-stage hydraulic cylinder system is disclosed which automatically bleeds entrapped air from within the cylinder each time the cylinder is cycled. The self-bleeding structure preferably includes a fixed elongated tube mounted to the base plate of the cylinder, and an axially moveable elongated tube telescopically mounted on the fixed tube. A biasing compression spring forces the moveable tube upward to a predetermined extent when the cylinder is extended. Upon contraction of the cylinder, air trapped therein is purged or bled from the cylinder through the top end of the axially moveable elongated tube into a fluid reservoir. In the final stage of contraction of the cylinder, hydraulic fluid is forced through the fixed and moveable elongated tubes thereby forcing the remaining air trapped therein out of the cylinder and into the hydraulic fluid reservoir.

Abstract: A fastener member to hold sheets of paper in a stack and ultimately be recycled at the same time the paper stacks are recycled. The fastener comprises a rolled material which is tightly bound to itself to produce a rigid shank for use as a fastening member.