Pneumatic

Pneumatic refers to systems and devices that use compressed gas, typically air, to transmit and control energy. The term derives from the Greek pneuma, meaning breath or wind. Pneumatics is distinguished from hydraulics, which uses incompressible liquids; gases are compressible and can respond quickly, but their force depends on pressure, temperature, and volume.

A typical pneumatic system includes an air supply (compressor or other source), a storage reservoir, filtration and drying equipment, a pressure regulator, and a network of tubing with control valves and actuators. The most common actuator is a pneumatic cylinder that provides linear motion, though rotary pneumatic motors also exist. Directional control valves determine the path of air, while flow control devices regulate speed and damping.

Advantages of pneumatics include simple construction, low heat generation, clean operation in hazardous environments, high speed, and the ability to deliver rapid, short-stroke motions. Limitations include energy losses through compression and leaks, the compressible nature of air causing non-linear response, sensitivity to temperature and moisture, and noise. System performance depends on proper filtration, drying, and lubrication to protect components.

Applications span manufacturing automation, tooling such as pneumatic drills and grippers, packaging machinery, robotics, and air brakes on commercial vehicles. Pneumatic tubes and devices have also been used historically to move capsules through pipelines by air pressure. Ongoing developments in compressors, valves, and control strategies continue to expand the reliability and efficiency of pneumatic systems in industry and everyday tools.