Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems: Applications

Pneumatics

Pneumatics is a set of techniques based on the use of compressed air as a fluid for transmitting energy for the operation of machines and mechanisms. It is used because it does not emit sparks, is readily available, is a clean fluid, is easily stored, and moves quickly inside conductions.

Hydraulics

Hydraulics is a set of techniques based on the use of mineral oil as a fluid for transmitting energy for the operation of machines and mechanisms. Mechanical applications of hydraulics transmit small and large efforts and achieve the most varied movements.

Advantages of hydraulic systems include:

• Easy control of speed
• Powerful transmission
• Position control
• Reversibility of the drives
• System protection
• Noise reduction
• Possibility of starting and stopping under load

Means of Production of Compressed Air

Compressor

Rotary compressor machines are driven by electric motors or internal combustion engines. Their function is to suck air at atmospheric pressure and compress it to a higher pressure.

Refrigerator

A refrigerator is a type of heat exchanger formed mainly by a series of tubes through which a coolant circulates.

Tank

A tank for storing compressed air is necessary to meet peak demand and maintain stable power circuit pressure, as well as to eliminate pulses generated by compression.

Compressed Air Conditioning

Drying

Air enters by going through the bottom of a porous material that absorbs moisture.

Filtering

Retention filtering removes impurities in the upper interface of solids, which settle and are aerated, for the proper functioning of the installation.

Pressure Regulator

A pressure regulator regulates the output pressure, adjusting it to the chosen value.

Lubrication

Lubrication greases the moving components of pneumatic systems, which reduces friction and prevents oxidation.

Pneumatic Actuators

Pneumatic actuators transform pneumatic energy from compressed air into mechanical work through a drive mechanism and machine.

Cylinder

Cylinders are actuators that perform work using linear and straight movements that transform the energy of compressed air into mechanical work.

Simple Effect Cylinder

A simple effect cylinder has only one entry point. The pressure and effort developed are in a single direction. The displacement of the plunger due to the pressure of compressed air takes place in one direction.

Double Effect Cylinder

In a double effect cylinder, compressed air exerts its action in both chambers of the cylinder. Work is carried out in two directions.

Rotary Actuators

Actuators are used when you need to turn a corner. Pneumatic actuation elements are available in a wide variety of models and sizes, offering problem-free and affordable solutions.

Pneumatic Motor

A pneumatic motor transforms pneumatic energy into rotating mechanical energy in a process similar to the reverse of compression.

Valves

Distributor valves are in charge of governing the start, stop, and flow in a hydraulic or pneumatic circuit. Distributor valves operate in a circuit according to the rules of command signals received from the connections between the ducts that are connected to obtain the corresponding output signals that activate the actuators.

Unidirectional Valves

Unidirectional valves are a particular type of control valve that allows the circulation of fluid flow in one direction, avoiding the step in reverse. These valves are normally closed by means of a cone or ball associated with a spring.

Hydraulic Circuit

Components

• Hydraulic pressure generator: This is the power element that transforms mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.
• Regulation and control devices: These are responsible for regulating and controlling the system parameters.
• Work elements: These are the actuators that use the energy of the hydraulic fluid to perform mechanical work.
• Conditioning pipes and accessories

Hydraulic Power Unit

The hydraulic power unit is in charge of the production and control of hydraulic energy. It consists of the following elements:

• Container or tank
• Engine-driven pump
• Oil pressure output conduit
• Safety valve
• Oil return conduit
• Return filter
• Filter cylinders
• Single-acting fluid inlet and outlet

Simple Effect Cylinder

In a simple effect cylinder, the fluid comes from a single chamber, so the linear power is carried out in one direction.

Double Effect Cylinder

In a double effect cylinder, work is performed in both forward and backward directions.

Hydraulic Motors

Hydraulic motors are the elements that transform hydraulic energy into mechanical rotary energy.