Pneumatic cylinders are often referred to as “air cylinders.” These objects are mechanical gadgets that transform compressed gas into a reciprocating linear motion. They work similarly to how hydraulic cylinders do, but both items are intended for different purposes.
These items are often used to provide said linear motion, sometimes rotative, to automated systems. Pneumatic cylinders are prominently used in industrial applications.
Pneumatic cylinders have many other names, including air cylinders, actuators and pneumatic drives. Either way, their way of functioning is the same, and their applications do not change.
How do pneumatic cylinders work?
If you want to understand how pneumatic cylinders work, you must first understand their parts.
A pneumatic cylinder is composed of six parts:
- Cap-end port
- Tie rod
- Rod-end port
- Piston
- Barrell
- Piston rod
Essentially, the process starts when the operator presses a button. When done, air will start moving the piston rod outward. However, there are different models available, such as single-acting cylinders or double-acting pneumatic cylinders.
Single-acting pneumatic cylinders
In single-acting pneumatic cylinders, the air enters and pulls the piston in a single direction – hence the name. The piston returns to its initial position thanks to a spring, and then the process repeats itself. While these actuators have less stroke length, they’re perfect for slow operation. Furthermore, they allow the company to save some money in costs as they use less air to function.
Double-acting pneumatic cylinders
While single-acting pneumatic cylinders move the piston in a single direction, double-acting siłowniki pneumatyczne possess two ports that enable the piston to move to the opposite direction after going through the first port. Technically speaking, the piston goes “instroke” and “outstroke.”
Common applications for pneumatic cylinders
If you’re new to these objects, you may find it quite difficult to think of a situation where pneumatic cylinders can be needed. However, it is important to note that you won’t likely need any of this equipment in your everyday life unless you own a factory. Pneumatic cylinders are more common in industrial automation systems.
Hence, some of the most common applications can include manufacturing or maybe packaging. The possibilities vary depending on what the factory needs to be done. Sometimes, pneumatic cylinders are also used for clamping.
What do you need to get a pneumatic cylinder to work?
You will need a few things to get started with a pneumatic cylinder, starting from a mounting system. Since it is important to position the item correctly, you may also need a detection system to aid you during the process. However, please note that there isn’t a single way of mounting a pneumatic cylinder. It depends on what you need at the moment, the operation and the type of cylinder you’re using.
We can conclude by saying that pneumatic cylinders are automatizing certain processes for more efficiency.
