THE basic function of pneumatic tubing and hose is to convey pressurized air to actuators, valves, tools and other devices. But there are countless types and sizes of tubing and hose on the market, so engineers should consider a number of important factors to select the right one for aΒ given task. Start with construction. Tubing […]
Components
Acro introduces affordable line of pneumatic pinch valves
Bimba, an industry-leading innovator of pneumatic, hydraulic and electric motion solutions, and Acro Associates, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bimba, today announced the release of the Model 600 series pneumatic pinch valves. These newly-designed units offer customers more choices, enhanced performance and greater affordability across a broad range of market segments and applications, especially those […]
Where are pneumatic grippers used?
ΊΪΑΟ³ΤΉΟ grippers are used in many pneumatic systems, as a means of grasping or holding parts; grippers may move, insert, stack or orient the parts to achieve a desired step in a manufacturing process. Grippers, which use compressed air to actuate the jaws, come in multiple styles, including parallel and angular, and may use a […]
Compressed air fail: Compressor lubricant release
By Ron Marshall for the Compressed Air Challenge A food products company used lubricated screw compressors to feed the process machines in their plant. The compressors contained food grade lubricant because some of the compressed air came in contact with the product. The lubricant is an important item within the compressor, acting as a lubricant, […]
A Lego-like pneumatic solution for customized machines
ByΒ Ken Korane, Contributing Editor Food and beverage processors and packagers strive to move goods as quickly, efficiently and safely as possible without damaging the end product. Sometimes the work is done by hand, but automated systems are often preferred to speed throughput and ensure quality. Devices like pick-and-place gantries, delta robots, and SCARA pickers work […]
Solenoid actuated valves
VY SeriesΒ of solenoid actuated valves from Airwork ΊΪΑΟ³ΤΉΟ Equipment combine reliability and versatility of assembly. The valves can be constructed as in-line, on panel, on multiple bases, on manifolds, or on cylinders. They are available in various sizes: 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2; the available functions are 3/2, 5/2, and 5/3. Airwork ΊΪΑΟ³ΤΉΟ Equipment airwork-pneumatic.com
Clippard launches NIV series PTFE media isolation valves
The Clippard NIV Series Media Isolation Valve is a solenoid-operatedΒ device that uses a flexible diaphragm to isolate the actuation mechanism from the fluid path.Β Media isolation valves are commonly used for a wide variety of applications, including thoseΒ that require precise, repeatable dispensing of media for analytical instrumentation. All wetted areas of the valve are PTFE, making […]
How do I compare air compressor efficiency?
When you are purchasing a compressor, it can be difficult to decide which one to buy. You should be aware that about 80% of the lifetime cost for an average air compressor is due to electricity, the remainder is purchase price and maintenance. Often, a compressor will consume its total purchase price in electricity in […]
Bimba introduces all stainless-steel compact cylinder to Flat-I product line
BimbaΒ hasΒ announced the addition of a stainless steel, compact cylinder to its Flat-I product line. The Stainless Steel Flat-I cylinders were designed especially for applications in which frequent, corrosive wash downs are required to prevent the propagation of bacteria. βIn industries such as food and beverage or health and beauty, and in numerous medical applications, bacteria […]
Why does my air cylinder leak?
While a leaking pneumatic cylinder does not represent the environmental and safety catastrophe that a leaking hydraulic cylinder does, itβs still a serious situation that you should pay attention to. In addition to the fact that air leakage means wasted energy, itβs also a sign that either the system was designed improperly (say, with high […]
