Fluid power is a way of transporting large, fast, and compact items efficiently. This power uses a gas or liquid under pressure to move a piston or shaft to do work. It involves transmitting, converting, and transferring power to its intended location.
Pneumatic and hydraulic systems, also known as fluid power systems, operate by using the interaction between competing forces. These systems use liquids (hydraulic systems) and gases (pneumatic systems) to transmit power.
Let’s explore this topic in detail.
What is a pneumatic system?
A pneumatic system is a mechanical system that uses compressed air or gas to power and regulate the movement of mechanical components. It is used in various fields, such as manufacturing, automation, transportation, and construction.
The basic components of this system include:
- Storage tank
- Compressor
- Other pneumatic components such as valves, cylinders, and actuators.
These devices regulate the flow and pressure of compressed air, transforming it into mechanical motion.
Moreover, pneumatics is preferred when electricity or hydraulics are not feasible. These air systems are more cost-effective and easier to maintain than others. Plus, they provide precise, consistent, and reliable operation.
How does the pneumatic system work?
A pneumatic system is a device that uses compressed air or gas to transmit and regulate energy. When the compressed air is released from the storage tank, the fluid flows through a series of pipes to reach the pneumatic components. To ensure system efficiency, Pumps Sales can provide the required equipment to generate and manage compressed air pressure. After this, the air pressure is managed by regulating the airflow through valves or by adjusting the pressure regulator.
Moreover, this system consists of components that convert compressed air energy into mechanical motion. For example, a pneumatic cylinder is a device that operates by driving a piston within a cylinder with compressed air.
What are the Main Parts of a Pneumatic System?
Compressor
A compressor is a device that aims to increase the pressure of air. This device converts the mechanical energy of motors and engines into the potential energy of compressed air. Here’s where it all starts. Usually, compressors feed air into a tank, allowing it to cool and lose some of its moisture. Tanks serve as both a pneumatic energy storage device and a means of removing piston compressor pulses.
Usually, dryers are connected after the tank to take off the moisture that was produced during compression.
Control Valves
Directional Control Valves convert small control signals to larger ones for actuators.
On the other hand, solenoid Valves are efficient, modern, and versatile, used in industries like semiconductors, automotive, packaging, medical, and machine tools.
Pneumatic Tubes
Pneumatic tubes are hollow pipes made from rubber, nylon, or stainless steel. They are used in pneumatic systems to transport compressed air. They play a critical role in maintaining a seamless airflow between components, just like wires do in electrical circuits.
Selecting the right material is essential; polyurethane and polyethylene are two examples of materials that are resistant to various environmental elements.
Pneumatic actuators
Pneumatic actuators are essential components in a pneumatic system, responsible for converting compressed air energy into mechanical motion. They can travel in a linear, rotational, or reciprocating fashion to suit various applications. Rotating actuators provide rotating movement, grippers are ideal for object manipulation, and round body and tie rod cylinders offer strong linear motion. Similarly, rodless cylinders offer a small package.
