Objectives

• Explain what a pneumatic system is.
• Explain why we would use a pneumatic system over a hydraulic system or an electrical circuit.

Pneumatics Basics

Pneumatic systems are all about transmitting energy via compressed air through a system to perform work. The work being done might be motion-based (moving an actuator back and forth, or around and around), or it could be pressure based - applying a label, or maybe squeezing a rivet. Pressure and direction might even be combined, with a factory arm using a suction cup to lift and place materials.