Pneumatic actuators are devices that convert the energy of compressed air or gas into mechanical movements that regulate one or more final control elements. pneumatic actuators provide motion within a system in the form of linear or rotary motion. They can be powered by hydraulic systems (hydrodynamic), handwheels, electronic devices or pneumatic systems (air pressure).

1. What is the main function of a pneumatic actuator?

Unlike other ways of powering actuators, pneumatic actuators are primarily used to power valves within a system. They convert pressurized air into energy to keep the system running smoothly. This can be used for the movement of gases, loads or water. pneumatic actuators are usually located inside a cylinder or motor in order to open or close something. Because of their strength and durability, pneumatic actuators are commonly used in industrial valves.

There are three types of pneumatic actuators that will be used in different situations:

(1) Single acting pneumatic actuator

Air will enter and exit through a single port on the cap end and the piston end will have a spring. This is best suited for lifting weights or moving things in one direction.

(2) Double-acting pneumatic actuators

This type of actuator allows pressurized air to enter and exit through two ports; the cap and the piston. One is activated to open the valve and the other will be activated to close the valve. Therefore, it is the best choice when something needs to be moved back.

(3) Pneumatic rotary device

The average speed of the motor is about 10,000 rpm. Since compressed air operates the motor, pneumatic actuators are limited to low to medium torque. These are mainly used in locations where they are being built; for consistent motion, such as mixing or oscillation.

2. Why do we use pneumatic actuators?

Due to the energy supply of pneumatic actuators, there are many benefits here:

(1) More economical

Electric actuators use a lot of energy and they either dissipate due to excess heat or require a gearbox. pneumatic actuators, on the other hand, act directly on the closing device. The piston and actuator shaft are sufficient to convert the linear compressed air force into a rotary motion. Compared to electric actuators, pneumatic solutions are more economical because they only require power to generate compressed air and open-loop control. The actual motion is generated by compressed air.

(2) Durable and low maintenance cost

Over the years, pneumatic actuators have proven to be vibration resistant and durable because they are made from a small number of components and are therefore less likely to fail. In addition, they are resistant to continuous loads and remain maintenance-free throughout their service life, requiring no oil changes or additional lubrication.

(3) Fail-safe

pneumatic actuators are safe because fluid leaks or sparks pose no environmental hazard. C compressed air is also available in the event of a power failure. In addition to compressors for power generation and handling purposes, air storage tanks are always available for emergencies. In addition, overload and explosion protection mean that they can also be used for fail-safe, extreme environments and critical applications without compromising performance and safety.

Thus, using pneumatic systems instead of electric or hydraulic systems has proven to be a more economical, easier and safer option for all applications. They are also reliable over a long period of time.

3. Which industries are likely to use pneumatic actuators?

(1) Water treatment plants

For example, 30% of valves in water treatment plants are controlled by pneumatic systems. They are also used for instruments, sensors, valves and filter membranes. Because of the huge space in water treatment plants, monitoring systems may reduce bandwidth, so using compressed air modules that can be monitored locally is a benefit to the entire system.

(2) Chemical and process industries

The chemical and process industries use only pneumatic actuators to control the flow of chemicals. Because these industries often perform hazardous tasks, such as handling dangerous or even toxic chemicals, pneumatic actuators are often used to ensure safety and reliability. As mentioned above, their benefits include the ability to withstand high temperatures and durability. That's why these are a common choice for natural gas, steam and thermal power plants.

(3) Manufacturing

While this is a broad process, there is almost always room for pneumatic actuators in the manufacturing industry. They are used in manufacturing because of their durability and low maintenance requirements. Due to the size of manufacturing plants, owners need moving parts that can last a long time without the refueling or maintenance required by hydraulic and electrical systems.

(4) Food processing industry

With hydraulic fluid or electricity, the chance of leaking and contaminating food is much higher than the chance of compressed gas leaking and causing manufacturing to slow down. For food, durable actuators are necessary, which can lead to food contamination or cause sparks. This is why most of the food processing industry will use pneumatic systems.

(5) Electronics industry

Handling, assembling and testing small parts is at the heart of the electronics industry. The production and assembly of electronic components such as semiconductors is fast-paced and requires precision. By installing pneumatic systems, it enables high speed and precise positioning despite the high quality of movement. As product cycles in the electronics industry become shorter, pneumatics also offer a more economical long-term solution than hydraulic products.

This is what we know about pneumatic actuators. If you need more detailed information, welcome to contact us!