10-04-2017, 08:36 PM
The English word pneumatic and its associate noun pneumatics are derived from the Greek
pneuma meaning breath or air. Originally coined to give a name to the science of the motions
and properties of air. Compressed air is a vital utility- just like water, gas and electricity used in
countless ways to benefit everyday life. Pneumatics is application of compressed air (pressurized
air) to power machine or control or regulate machines. Simply put, Pneumatics may be defined
as branch of engineering science which deals with the study of the behavior and application of
compressed air. Pneumatics can also be defined as the branch of fluid power technology that
deals with generation, transmission and control of power using pressurized air. Gas in a
pneumatic system behaves like a spring since it is compressible.
Any gas can be used in pneumatic system but air is the most usual, for obvious reasons.
Exceptions are most likely to occur on aircraft and space vehicles where an inert gas such as
nitrogen is preferred or the gas is one which is generated on board. Pure nitrogen may be used if
there is a danger of combustion in a work environment. In Pneumatic control, compressed air is
used as the working medium, normally at a pressure from 6 bar to 8 bar. Using Pneumatic
Control, maximum force up to 50 kN can be developed. Actuation of the controls can be
manual, Pneumatic or Electrical actuation. Signal medium such as compressed air at pressure of
1-2 bar can be used [Pilot operated Pneumatics] or Electrical signals [D.C or A.C source- 24V
230V] can be used [Electro pneumatics]
