Pneumatics Through the Ages: The Evolution of the Valve and Air Rams
Most of today’s modern machinery utilises some form of pneumatics within its function, be it valves or air rams. However, many people, even engineers, know very little about the history of valves or how the science of pneumatics evolved into its essential elements today. Here’s a short history and evolution of valves, air rams, and pneumatics in general.
Who really invented the valve?
When you talk of pneumatics, its main component is the valve, or sometimes called the air ram. In history, it was the Greeks who first delved into the science of pneumatics in their attempts at irrigation from rivers. However, it was the Roman Empire that was the first to invent what resembles an elaborate canal system. Roman engineers brought water from rivers and mountain sources to the cities, towns, and villages by means of aqueducts.
The first valve recorded in the Roman Empire was made of bronze. It included a plug with a hole and a long levy for turning the plug. There were even variations of this plug such as a primitive butterfly valve tap and diaphragm valve.
The Renaissance Period
The Renaissance Period saw increased use of canals, irrigations systems, and hydraulics. Leonardo DaVinci was said to have invented a sophisticated valve for irrigation.
The Industrial Revolution
With the invention of the steam engine by Thomas Newcomen in 1705, there would be an increase in the use of pneumatics, and the design of the modern valve and air rams would come in effect. The invention of the assembly line contributed to the mass manufacturing of valves for different pneumatic uses.
The industrial revolution and the 1800s would see the increased use of compressed air and the development of different forms of valves for pneumatics, such as:
- The compound air compressor in 1829.
- Water-cooled cylinders in 1872.
- The pneumatic drill in 1871 and pneumatic hammer in 1890.
Pneumatics, along with valves and air rams, has had a rich history dating back to antiquity and leading up to the present time. It would seem that the present sees no signs of slowing down when it comes to innovating pneumatic solutions to be developed and released for different machinery and uses regularly. With such an important role to play in many various industries, pneumatic valves and air rams are sure to continue on through many years and beyond.
Master Mac 2000
Historically, Master Mac 2000 was established in 1989. It has since become one of Australia’s largest privately-owned valve and pneumatic component distributors. Master Mac 2000 will always have a pneumatic solution for you when it comes to valves and air rams. Give us a call today or visit the Mastermac2000 website at https://mastermac2000.com.au/.
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.