Hydraulics vs Pneumatics
Both pneumatics and hydraulics are technologies useful in manufacturing heavy equipment and machinery. Each has qualities that are suitable for different projects.
Here is what you need to know about hydraulics and pneumatics:
Hydraulics
This is a liquid counterpart of pneumatics. Hydraulics use water or oil to transmit power. This type of technology is being used in different machines such as cranes and other construction materials like garbage trucks and even car brakes. For example, to have a better control of the crane arm, the engine pushes hydraulic fluid through thin pipes.
Advantages. A liquid cannot be compressed, which makes a big advantage for hydraulics. We all know that doing a belly flop into a pool hurts so much. That is because water doesn’t squeeze downwards when you slam against it. This is why the property of liquids is ideal for creating strong machinery.
Hydraulic systems can handle more pressure compared to a pneumatic system as liquids can’t be compressed. Water hydraulics are cost-effective because water is inexpensive and easy to transport. There is also no delay in the operation of a hydraulic machine.
Disadvantages. The risks of using liquids as an energy source are leaks in valves, seals, and hoses. Fluid in hydraulics can also cause corrosion. Hydraulic machinery also can’t be used in food manufacturing as it can be contaminated by hydraulic fluid leaks.
Pneumatics
Unlike hydraulics, pneumatic systems use gas or air to transmit power. These systems are mainly used in general construction and mining. Moreover, they are also used in dental equipment like drills, dental chairs and other tools. Other common pneumatic tools devices are air compressors, jackhammers, air brakes, air rams, and vacuum pumps.
Advantages. With pneumatics, your equipment is free from corrosion as there is no moisture that can corrode internal parts of the system. You won’t also worry about leaking as the system uses gas. Pneumatics come in simple designs that are made from cheaper materials.
Disadvantages. The major disadvantage of pneumatics is that they can’t reach as high of a pressure compared to hydraulics. While air is easily compressed, there will be delays in the movement of the pneumatic devices. They can’t be used for a larger project as they are more effective on low-scale construction or mechanical jobs.
It is essential to know the advantages and disadvantages of using hydraulics and pneumatics. They both serve the same benefits as they easily finish any work.
If you need pneumatic tools like air rams, Mastermac2000 can provide you quality air tools. Contact us now!
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.