Pneumatics

Pneumatic cylinders, also known as air cylinders, are mechanical devices that use compressed air to produce linear motion and force. They are widely used in various industrial applications, such as automation, material handling, and assembly processes, due to their simplicity, low cost, and clean operation compared to hydraulic cylinders.

There are two main types of pneumatic cylinders:

1. Single-acting cylinders: These cylinders have a single air chamber and a spring return mechanism. When compressed air is supplied, the piston extends, creating linear motion. Once the air pressure is released, the internal spring pushes the piston back to its original position. Single-acting cylinders are typically used for applications that require simple motion and lower forces.

2. Double-acting cylinders: These cylinders have two air chambers, one on each side of the piston. Compressed air is alternately supplied to each chamber, causing the piston to extend or retract. Double-acting cylinders provide more control over speed and force and are suitable for applications that require more complex motion and higher forces.

Pneumatic cylinders consist of several components, including a cylinder barrel, piston, piston rod, end caps, and seals. The cylinder barrel houses the piston and forms the main body of the cylinder, while the piston divides the cylinder into two chambers. The piston rod extends out of the cylinder and is used to transmit the linear motion to the external mechanism.