Category: Pneumatic Actuators
Choosing the Right Actuator Type for Your Application
Sometimes the choice between the three main actuator types – electric, pneumatic and hydraulic – is a no brainer. For example, if you need heavy-duty motion, a hydraulic actuator would be the obvious choice, a potentially explosive environment necessitates the use of a pneumatic actuator and a sterile operation would demand an electric actuator. But […]
Actuators: The Muscle Behind Industrial Motion
Similar to the way in which muscles in the human body enable motion of the arms, legs and other body parts, actuators facilitate mechanical movement. As a matter of fact, nearly every piece of industrial equipment relies on actuators to generate the motion needed to properly operate; however, the actuator used differs from application to […]
Electric vs. Pneumatic Actuators: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between pneumatic and electric actuators is not always an easy one. However, the two technologies are so different that one can rarely be a replacement for the other. Many variations exist to meet the demands of the compressed air market. There are a few key points that can help you to decide between electric and […]
The Differences Between Rotary and Linear Pneumatic Actuators
Linear Pneumatic Actuators can move something in a straight line using a piston with compressed air applied to achieve linear motion. The output motion of Linear Pneumatic Actuators is in line with the piston rod and/or cylinder. Rotary Pneumatic Actuators can move something in a circular motion. Perpendicular to the shaft. Many contain pneumatic piston-operated rack & pinion […]
Regular Maintenance Ensures Functional and Efficient Pneumatic Systems
While pneumatic systems are often selected because they have a reputation for providing high reliability in tough industrial applications, that doesn’t mean that they don’t require a little TLC now and then. As a matter of fact, creating and adhering to a schedule of regular inspection and maintenance activities will ensure that your pneumatic systems […]
Why Replace a Valve System with a Manifold?
As the number of valves in a pneumatic system grows, flow paths can begin to look like a plate of spaghetti. Aesthetics aside, these sprawling flow paths often increase the overall size of the valve system, lengthen response times and lead to leaks. For these reasons, it can be beneficial to replace space-hogging valve systems […]
Pneumatic Safety Systems: Redundant Safety Exhaust Valve vs. Zoned Safety for OEM Applications
Written by Tom Voth, Product Marketing Manager, Emerson, and Jeff Welker, product manager, FS Eng (TUV Rheinland, #18333/ 19, Machinery), Emerson OEMs who design equipment with pneumatic safety systems are repeatedly challenged with the dual task of protecting operator safety while also delivering maximum uptime. To accomplish safety goals, OEMs have traditionally integrated redundant safety […]
Pneumatic Safety Components and Where to Apply Them
With the introduction of automated systems, building machines has become even more complex. This forced designers to devote more time to implementing newer safety standards. A good example of this is the revision of ISO 13849 in 2006, which meant that all machine builders now had to consider safety-rated components as part of their design […]
A Brief Guide on Troubleshooting Pneumatic Actuators
Pneumatic actuators are used to convert the energy from pressurized air into rotary and linear motion. With exceptional motion control, it guarantees the precision needed in automation. They are used in many industries, such as automotive, food processing, and manufacturing because of their many benefits. If your pneumatic actuator and its components are not working […]
Ideal Applications For Pneumatic Actuators
Pneumatic actuators are used in many industries utilizing automation systems such as manufacturing, packaging, food and beverage, and automation. These actuators that draw their power from compressed air come in a wide array of sizes and configurations operating at high speeds while offering flexibility. In addition, pneumatic actuators offer both rotational and linear movement allowing […]