Generating copious amounts of force is an essential working principle for heavy-duty machinery. In some industrial and construction-related applications, hydraulics and pneumatics are commonly used. Both refer to the method of transferring power using a medium. In the case of pneumatics, pressurised air is used, but in hydraulics a fluid is used. This article will be an introduction to these two principles and their typical applications.
What is hydraulics?
In general, a machine that uses fluid to generate force is ideal for applications that require considerable energy. Typically, the components of a hydraulic machine are made of heavy-duty steel. You will find these devices commonly used in industrial applications and similar settings. When needed, you can use a portable hydraulic power pack when there is no power source on the project site.
What is a pneumatic system?
In contrast to hydraulic machines, a pneumatic system is more common when the application is lightweight and requires a speedy source of force. Unlike hydraulic machines, a pneumatic system makes use of plastic and other non-ferrous components.
Choosing the right technique for the intended application
Although the function and working principle for these two techniques are similar, it is still essential to consider several factors before choosing which option is better. There are a few points to look into when deciding whether to choose a hydraulic or pneumatic device.
- Consider the working environment and all the factors which may affect the machine’s performance, such as temperature, contaminants, and pressure.
- The overall cost of the device may also determine which is a better fit according to your budget.
- Between the two options, hydraulics uses less energy.
- For portable applications, you will need a power pack for a fluid-driven machine. On the other hand, air-driven devices can be automatically plugged into a primary source of power. When the project site is remote, it may be better to use a hydraulic machine where you have the option to use a power unit.
Although hydraulics are considered more complicated, these devices are best for high-pressure installations. That is why you will see most industrial and construction machines using hydraulics rather than pneumatics.
Hydraulic applications
Here are some of the most common examples of where fluid-driven cylinders are used:
- Machines used in processing plants such as those used in production lines are fast and precise, which is why hydraulics is ideal in these settings.
- The power steering function used in cars, as well as brakes, are some identifiable uses of fluid-driven force in the automobile industry.
- This industry uses hydraulics in many functions such as the retraction and release of landing gears, brakes, as well as opening and closing doors.
- Many advanced pieces of equipment use hydraulics as a power source.
- Many ships make use of hydraulics to control and keep the vessel stable.
- Mobile equipment. Loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and tractors are only a few of the common examples.
These are only a few of the many applications of hydraulics in various settings. As machines become more sophisticated, new and innovative installations are available to make these devices more robust and reliable, especially in more demanding applications.