Pneumatics 101: Basics of Pneumatic Systems

Do you know the basics of pneumatic systems? If not, and if you are a human operator, then knowing the inners and outer workings can help you troubleshoot or figure out a more powerful setup for your workspace. Pneumatics 101 can teach you how the machines function, and what you can do to prevent a loss of valuable air pressure. That means identifying the parts.

What Is Pneumatic Energy?

Pneumatic energy is the power generated from placing a large volume of air within a relatively small area. As the molecules are pressed together, the resulting pressure travels through the system and cause the main motor or actuator to rotate, which in turn powers the machine. This continues until the operator switches the machine off. Any type of air can be used, including that which we breathe.

Manufacturers like pneumatics because the energy used is free, for one. Air exists all around us, and it can be used as a clean, renewable source of fuel. As long as it is breathable within a working environment, then it can be used frequently. Pneumatics costs as much as electricity, which means they provide roughly the same value to the people that use them.

Compressed air also is less combustible than hydraulic or electric machines; the former uses oils that are prone to catching fire, and the latter introduces a number of electrical sparks. While mechanical systems don’t have the same issue with fire, they tend to be less efficient overall.

Pneumatics provides an easy-to-clean atmosphere for products that have higher regulations, like for food and pharmaceuticals. In the case of food processing, pneumatic machinery can handle being washed constantly without shorting out.

As another added benefit, the parts are less likely to wear out in the long run and cost less than for other machinery. They are reliable and have consistent performance, requiring less replacement. This reduces operating and maintenance expenses, especially when you are working on a budget.

Pneumatic Components

A pneumatic machine has several basic components. These can either create a complicated or simple setup, depending on how much power you want to generate. Nevertheless, when you identify them in a machine, you can see

Compressor

The compressor is the component that takes the air molecules from the working environment. It has a small area through which the air enters and the volume is reduced as a result. Increasing the volume decreases pressure, and vice-versa. Then the molecules are transported through the rest of the machine.

Reservoir

A reservoir is used to store excess air when the machine is not in use. This reduces the amount of air that gets wasted, which increases efficiency during operations. It also reduces the frequency at which the compressor needs to be working.

Circuit

The circuits serve as the pathway through the machine. It is quite similar to how blood flows throughout the human body. An operator can decide if they want the air pressure to flow one way towards the actuator

Dryers, Coolers, And Separators

Air temperature needs to be regulated to maintain a constant pressure. That means that you need dryers and coolers to ensure that the temperature remains the same. Separators are similar to filters, where they dry the water to get rid of contaminants.

Filter

Air filters take out microscopic contaminants that can clog or damage your machine. Water vapor, oil droplets, soil particles, and bacteria are examples of contaminants that you don’t want. Bacteria is more of a risk for the human operator. Usually, these devices have a filtering element, like carbon, which can absorb these tiny particles.

Valve

A circuit is filled with valves, to open and close the pathways within the machine. A pressure switch tends to control them. They usually have a minimum of two ports in them though some can have as many as three or four. Valves work with circuits to determine the flow of air.

Actuator

The actuator is also called a pneumatic cylinder. It serves as the engine for the entire machine that powers up when it receives a certain threshold of air. They operate on linear or rotary motion, depending on the strokes that the operator desires.

Review Pneumatic Basics With Orange Coast Pneumatics

Orange Coast Pneumatics is one of the foremost experts in the compressed air energy field. We believe that every operator should know the inner and outer workings of their machines. Our specialists know which parts are more than viable for your machine, to replace worn-out components and substitute for canceled series. We’ll also answer any of your questions on improving your pneumatic setup.

Reach out to us today to get started. Orange Coast Pneumatics is ready to help you improve your airflow, and organize your system. We will ensure that, whether with a simple or complicated setup or a simple pneumatic machine, you will increase energy efficiency and get more mileage out of compressed air.