SMC Corporation of America announces the release of the Guided Hygienic Actuator, Series HYG, which provides the high loading capabilities of a guided cylinder and can also be used in hygienic washdown applications such as with food-processing or water bottling machinery. In addition to washdown capabilities, the Series HYG has excellent resistance to water, machining coolant and other liquids. Standard features include multiple porting locations (top or side), a rail-mounted hygienic auto-switch for improved washdown capabilities and guide rods that are completely recessed within the cylinder guide body.