Harnessing Compressed Air: A Study on Pneumatic Devices and Their Applications

What are pneumatic devices?

Pneumatic devices refer to various tools and instruments that generate and utilize compressed air.

Pneumatic devices are not uncommon in our daily lives. They feature relatively simple structures and high reliability, and under continuous compressed air supply they can perform high-frequency cyclic actions, making them highly suitable for automation applications.

Other common pneumatic devices include rock drills, pavement breakers, riveting machines, forging presses, spray guns, sandblasters, and atomizers. Automation equipment plays a crucial role in reducing manual labor, improving efficiency, and making our lives more convenient, healthy, safe, and environmentally friendly.

Common Types of Pneumatic Devices

Pneumatic devices include pneumatic components. Each type of pneumatic device uses compressed air as the power source and, through different mechanisms, achieves functions such as rotation, impact, or cutting.

Pneumatic Hammer

The pneumatic hammer is a typical pneumatic device. It is hand-held by an operator, who presses the trigger to supply air. Compressed air is delivered through air hoses to the handle of the hammer. The operator controls the airflow into the cylinder via the trigger valve, which drives the piston in a reciprocating motion. When the valve is closed, the exhaust air is released.

Features:

• It has no automatic logic; the timing of the strikes is entirely determined by the operator.

• It is not an automated device.

Pneumatic Vibrator

Operation: Once air is supplied, the vibrator automatically generates vibration, without requiring continuous manual operation.

Features:

• It can be part of an automated pneumatic system, but requires sensors, solenoid valves, and a control system to work together for automated operation.

Pneumatic Can Crusher

Operation: The operator places the can → presses a button or foot switch → the cylinder compresses the can → releases to reset.

Features:

• The compression action is performed automatically through the pneumatic circuit, but manual triggering and feeding are required.

• It is considered a semi-automated pneumatic device.

How can pneumatic components achieve automation?

Workflow:

• A photoelectric sensor detects that a can has been placed in the compression position → sends a signal to the PLC.

• The PLC controls the solenoid valve → the cylinder descends to compress the can.

• Once compression is complete → a limit switch detects that the cylinder has reached its position → the PLC sends a signal to reverse the valve → the cylinder retracts.

• The can is automatically ejected → the next can moves into position, and the cycle repeats automatically.

Features:

• No manual button pressing required → the compression operation is completed automatically.

• Can operate continuously → improving efficiency and reducing manual labor.

Other pneumatic components provided by fokca

A pneumatic system is composed of various fundamental components, each with a specific role: cylinders convert the energy of compressed air into linear or rotary motion, performing pushing, pulling, clamping, and other actions; tubing and fittings transport the air and ensure airtight connections; valves control the direction, pressure, and flow of air, and in combination with solenoid valves, enable automated operation; air preparation units (filters, regulators, lubricators) ensure the air is clean, pressure-stable, and properly lubricated; cylinder mounting accessories are used to secure cylinders and adjust their position, ensuring reliable system operation. Working together, the entire system allows pneumatic devices to perform various mechanical actions efficiently and reliably.