What are the Main Components of a Pneumatic System?
Pneumatic systems are commonplace across many industrial applications and industries. This is thanks in no small part to the clean, cost-effective, readily available power that compressed air brings to many automated factory processes. But what exactly is a pneumatic system? Keep reading this informative guide to learn more about the main components of a pneumatic system, their various benefits, and how you can source yours from API UK.
WHAT IS PNEUMATICS?
Let’s go back to basics for a moment. What do we actually mean when we talk about pneumatics? Well, pneumatics is a field of fluid power that centres around the use of compressed air (or similar gases, such as nitrogen) to transmit force and energy.
Pneumatic systems offer a whole host of advantages, not least the fact that compressed air is safe, readily available, cost-effective, clean, quiet and delivers an excellent power-to-weight ratio.
Little wonder, then, that pneumatic systems are so widely used across many industries. But what do we mean exactly when we talk about a ‘pneumatic system’? Let’s explore that concept in a little bit more detail.
WHAT IS A PNEUMATIC SYSTEM?
Pneumatic systems are interconnected components that harness pressurised air to transmit and control energy. This usually culminates in some sort of automated movement (derived from linear or rotary motion), which could be anything from moving objects to clamping, gripping or positioning. Pneumatic systems are commonplace in assembly and fabrication applications, as well as in heavy machinery such as drills.
MAIN COMPONENTS OF A PNEUMATIC SYSTEM
All pneumatic systems will have unique features, but what the vast majority of them will have in common are certain vital components. Here are the main components of a pneumatic system:
Compressor
The obvious starting point for any pneumatic system is the air compressor. Whether a piston, rotary, centrifugal or axial flow compressor, the end product is the same: a constant supply of pressurised air. The compressed air is typically cooled and stored in a larger tank known as an air receiver or air reservoir.
FRL Unit
Before the compressed air is channelled through the pneumatic system, it must first be conditioned. This air treatment process often involves cleaning, filtering and lubricating the air before it enters the system to protect downstream components.
A filter regulator or combined filter regulator lubricator (FRL) filters the air supply for water and contaminants. The regulator element controls the system pressure and the lubricator (if required) lubricates the air for the benefit of downstream tools.
Directional control valve
The control element of any pneumatic system is typically one or more directional control valves. These directional control valves help operators to stop and control the directional flow of compressed air. A critical component, directional control valves play an important role in actuating air tools, larger valves and pneumatic cylinders.
Cylinder
The external output of many pneumatic systems is a pneumatic cylinder. Pneumatic cylinders invariably provide the desired end movement of a system by way of that aforementioned linear or rotary motion. Pneumatic cylinders come in single-acting or double-acting varieties offering a huge variety of bore and stroke sizes.
Most pneumatic cylinders are manufactured from aluminium, but stainless steel cylinders offer higher corrosion resistance. This makes stainless steel pneumatic cylinders attractive for hygienic applications and those involving aggressive media.
BUILD YOUR PNEUMATIC SYSTEM WITH API UK
Short of the compressor, API UK can supply everything you need to build the ultimate pneumatic system. As well as pneumatic air reservoirs, we stock an array of air treatment products, including modular FRLs, micro regulators, soft start valves and pressure gauges.
Plus, much of our air preparation equipment is available in stainless steel, perfect for harsh environments requiring corrosion and chemical-resistant air filtration.
We also offer various industrial and process control valves constructed from lightweight aluminium or high-grade 316L stainless steel. From solenoid valves to ISO control valves and pneumatic spool valves, API UK is sure to have the perfect control valve for your particular pneumatic application.
We also provide a comprehensive selection of coils, connectors and mounting plates specifically for ISO 15552 cylinders.
Last but certainly not least, we also manufacture an impressive line of pneumatic cylinders. We can provide a huge array of single-acting and double-acting pneumatic cylinders that conform to ISO 15552 or ISO 6432 standards.
Whether you require ISO cylinders, compact air cylinders, rodless cylinders, roundline cylinders, or stainless steel cylinders, we’ve got just what you need. We even offer a same day build service on bespoke pneumatic cylinders built to ISO 15552 standards for the ultimate convenience.
To discuss your pneumatic system requirements or arrange a free on-site visit, speak with our technical team today. As expert manufacturers of high-quality pneumatics, we can help you understand the options available and guide you towards the best system solution for your application.
So call us today on 01782 206 995, email [email protected], or complete our contact form.