Difference between Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems

There is a huge tussle in the fluid power realm between hydraulic and pneumatic systems. When power is transmitted between systems using a fluid, one faces the choice of the use of a hydraulic or pneumatic system. Both are similar in the method of use and calculation of forces needed.

Clean energy from pneumatic systems

The first thing that both systems need is a pump even though we store compressed air in tanks for use beforehand. The velocity and force of actuators remain controlled through the use of valves. The difference lies in the use of the medium that is different for both. The Pneumatic actuator is a clean system with the immediate release of compressed air to the outside atmosphere. There is no risk of contamination and so it is used in food packaging and preparing processes. If we use hydraulics for this, there is a chance of oil leaks from burst hoses and faulty seals and valves. Pneumatics offers a wider choice of sizes and allows rapid movement within the cylinders.

The quick movement of air

This is because air is agile and offer a better compression flow rate and has the least resistance. The comprehensibility of air is a great advantage and so air can do things that oil cannot. The pneumatic valve is made of a series of openings suitably arranged to create the desired effect. This allows lightning fast interactions because the ability of the air to expand and occupy space when released is enormous. So, it can negotiate bends in pipes faster than oil. Automated processes in relatively light manufacturing applications work much faster for pneumatic systems. Use of pneumatic systems is seen in jackhammers, air compressors, and brakes in buses.

The huge potential of hydraulic systems

The Hydraulic actuator has greater potential and it can lift and move heavy loads. In general, hydraulic fluid is not compressible since it has a high bulk modulus that is, the resistance to change in volume. The oil within the hydraulic hose is viscous and needs the energy to perform. Operating a hydraulic system at 10,000 psi will produce a smooth action as compared to the pneumatic system where the air becomes spongy and becomes jerky after 300 psi. Even when we use multi-stage compression, it is not possible to compress air beyond a certain limit. The hydraulic valve needs to have strong construction because it handles bigger pressure. There is an even distribution of the hydraulic pressure because of the incompressible nature of oils. It makes the movements of the parts of the hydraulic system move smoothly. Hydraulic systems are used in automobile engineering, water movement in dams, hydraulic jacks, parts of aircraft and boat.

More details about hydraulic and pneumatic systems can be found at SKG PNEUMATICS INC, - one of the leading suppliers of industrial products. For more details feel free to contact us.