This example shows the difference in performance of a regenerative hydraulic circuit and a non-regenerative circuit when used in a material press configuration. Both hydraulic systems will be used to press a material with deformable properties and the difference in performance can be compared.

A single rod cylinder moves slower when extending compared to retracting because of the different piston areas. A regenerative circuit can be used to cause a cylinder to extend more rapidly than it could with pump oil flow alone. The rod end of the cylinder is connected to the main pressure line, so the oil which normally would be discharged to a tank will join with the pump oil, increasing the speed of the piston.