Glossary · Pneumatics and hydraulics
Pneumatics
Also known as: Pneumatic technology, Compressed air technology
German: Pneumatik
In engineering, pneumatics is the technology of transmitting and controlling power by means of compressed air or another gas. ISO 4414 specifies general rules and safety requirements for pneumatic systems and their components in machinery.
- Fluid power
- Standards
In one sentence
Pneumatics transmits and controls power with compressed air; ISO 4414 sets safety rules for pneumatic systems on machines.
Example
Assembly machines use pneumatics for grippers, clamps and short linear strokes because it is fast, simple and clean.
How it applies
- Engineering: Pneumatic systems combine air preparation, valves, actuators and tubing. ISO 4414 covers aspects such as behavior on loss and return of energy and energy release; conforming to it doesn't by itself make a machine safe.
- Commissioning: Soft-start, pressure settings, speeds and cushioning are adjusted.
- Maintenance: Residual air in actuators and receivers is a typical hazard; energy must be released before work.
- Documentation: Provide pneumatic circuit diagrams with ISO 1219-1 symbols, supply requirements and maintenance intervals. Describe shut-off and venting in the Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure, and what moves when air returns.
Pneumatics vs. hydraulics
Pneumatics works with compressible air at lower pressures and forces. Hydraulics uses liquid at high pressure for stiff, powerful motion.