- Pneumatic and hydraulic systems channel substances to produce force.hydraulic lock mechanism image by green308 from Fotolia.com
Pneumatic and hydraulic systems share many similarities. Instead of using electrical energy to turn motors and generate electromagnetic fields, they use the pressure qualities of substances around them. Pneumatic systems compress gases and use the compression to accomplish their tasks, while hydraulic systems use a liquid, often oil or water, to create force. Hydraulic systems tend to be more accurate, while pneumatic systems are cheaper and easier to use. - Both hydraulic and pneumatic systems use pumps to move gas and liquid. Pneumatic systems need pumps to draw in outside air: they also use a compressor connected to the pump to pressurize this air and contain it in the system. Hydraulic systems do not need to extensively pressurize liquids to create the same force, but they still require a pumping system to effectively move and replenish liquids.
- Piping moves either liquid or gas from one area to another. For hydraulic systems, piping moves the liquid to an action point where it can exert force on a particular device. These pipes need to be both strong and watertight to resist the force of the liquid and direct it toward proper uses. Pneumatic systems do not exert continual force as often, so instead of pipes some pneumatic systems use strong air-tight hoses.
- Cylinders are typically where the system exerts force. A cylinder is a very strong metal container, often part of the piping system, which holds a piston. The liquid or gas is released into this cylinder, pushing on the piston to accomplish work. Gas tends to push on the piston quickly, while liquids move pistons more slowly but with extreme accuracy.
- Valves hold the air and gas where it is supposed to be. Without valves, the substances would leak through the system and lose their pressure instead of remaining contained. Valves open partially or fully to allow a certain amount of liquid or gas to move through the system and do its work. These valves must be strong, corrosion-resistance, and water or air-tight.
- Electrical controls allow users to interact with the system. Typically the controls are simple and use a solenoid arrangement to open and shut valves as needed. A solenoid is a small coil of wire that generates a minor electromagnetic field that can be used to open or close valves. These simple devices are sometimes connected to a larger arrays of circuits controlled by computers or switchboards. Other electrical parts measure the pressure of the system and displays it on dials or digitally.
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