The Basics of Pneumatic Systems

flow control valve

Not all of us may know it, but pneumatics is present almost everywhere in the world. It helps make everyday mechanical systems work. We rely on them so much on a daily basis, but most of us do not even notice their importance.

By definition, pneumatics is the branch of technology or physics that deals with the mechanical properties of gases. Pneumatic systems are used to control many different types of machinery. There are several ways to control various machinery, but with pneumatics, they will work more efficiently and effectively.

Pneumatic systems work by using canisters filled with specialised gases or compressed air and then releasing force on various machine parts and pistons, which gives that movement needed by mechanical devices to execute their tasks.

They are used in many things including the following:

  •         Nail guns
  •         Air compressors
  •         Jackhammers
  •         Air brakes on trucks and buses
  •         Vacuum pumps
  •         Pressure regulators
  •         Pneumatic motors
  •         Pneumatic air guns
  •         Pneumatic mail systems

The pneumatic system is composed of four parts: the compressor, actuator, check valve, and directional valve.

The compressor is the pump responsible for compressing air, raising it to a higher pressure, and delivering it to the system. Apart from being used to release or push air out, it is also utilised for pulling air inward as a vacuum.

The actuator functions as a converter of stored compressed air into linear or rotary mechanical motion. Common actuators come with a cylinder, a piston, and a configuration of ports and valves.

The check valve is a one-way regulator that operates by allowing the pressurised air through the pneumatic system while preventing backflow.

The directional valve regulates the direction of airflow to the right source.

Pneumatic systems are important because they are used in numerous machineries to fix roads, make large vehicles function properly, and many others.

If you are in need of any devices such as a poppet valve, spool valve, or flow control valve, rest assured that your local pneumatic distributor has all the equipment you need to make your machines work effectively. Contact them today!


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About MasterMac2000: Your Trusted Pneumatic & Process Automation Partner.

LEADING THE INDUSTRY: Established in 1989, MasterMac2000 has grown to become one of Australia's largest privately owned pneumatic and process automation companies. We stock top-quality brands like Univer, Mack, Tolomatic, Mac, Piab, American, and Rotoflux in Brisbane.

SERVING QLD & NORTHERN NSW: We proudly service Queensland and Northern New South Wales for all your pneumatic and process equipment needs. Our mission is to provide the best pre and post-sales support while actively expanding our client base.

SOURCING HARD-TO-FIND PARTS: Not only do we stock quality components, but we also excel at sourcing those elusive, hard-to-find parts. With our extensive database and global network of contacts, getting the parts you require is as easy as a call to our highly skilled, professional sales team.

DEDICATED TO YOUR SUCCESS:

  • Decades of expertise in pneumatics & process automation
  • Carefully curated selection of world-class brands
  • Exceptional sourcing capabilities for speciality parts
  • Knowledgeable sales staff dedicated to finding solutions
  • Unwavering commitment to customer service excellence


About The Author

Stuart Havill

Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.

With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.

In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.

Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.

Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.

View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.

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