As an indispensable key component, pneumatic actuators are everywhere in the field of industrial automation. So, how do pneumatic actuators work? What are the key parts of its basic structure?
The working principle and basic structure of pneumatic actuator are as follows:
I. Working principle
Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to convert pressure energy into mechanical energy to drive the mechanism to move.
When compressed air enters the air chamber of a pneumatic actuator, the air pressure pushes the piston or diaphragm to move, thereby driving the push rod or shaft connected to them.
The movement of the push rod or shaft can be transmitted to the controlled equipment through mechanical connection to achieve control of valves, dampers, etc.
By controlling the pressure, flow and direction of the compressed air entering the air chamber, the movement speed, stroke and force of the pneumatic actuator can be accurately controlled, thereby achieving precise control of the controlled equipment.
In pneumatic actuators, various control valves such as solenoid valves, pneumatic valves, etc., which are usually equipped to control the entry and exhaust of compressed air.
These control valves can be controlled by electrical signals, pneumatic signals or manual operation, thus achieving remote control or manual control of pneumatic actuators.
II. Basic composition
The pneumatic actuators are mainly composed of the following parts:
Cylinder: The cylinder is the core component of the pneumatic actuator, including the piston, cylinder barrel and seals. A piston is installed inside the cylinder, and it moves through the action of compressed air, thus converting it into mechanical force. The cylinder housing is often made of aluminum alloy or other materials to ensure sufficient strength and light weight.
Piston: The piston is located inside the cylinder and is pushed into motion by the pressure of compressed air. The piston is usually equipped with piston rings to seal the cylinder to ensure minimal leakage.
Control elements: Control elements include pressure gauges, filters, lubricators, etc., which are used to control the pressure and flow of gas. These components ensure that the pneumatic actuator can operate accurately and stable according to the predetermined control signals.
Actuator: The actuator is the power output part of the pneumatic actuator, which usually composed of a push rod, a rotating shaft, etc. When the piston moves in the cylinder, it will drive the actuator to perform corresponding movements thus achieving control over the controlled equipment.
Auxiliary devices: The pneumatic actuators may also be equipped with some auxiliary devices, such as valve positioners, handwheel mechanism, air source triplexes, etc. These devices are used to improve actuator performance to provide manual operating functions or ensure the stability and cleanliness of the air supply.
In summary, the pneumatic actuators convent the pressure energy of compressed air into mechanical energy to drive the actuator to move and achieve precise control of the controlled equipment.
Its basic composition includes cylinder, piston, control element, actuators and auxiliary device, among others. These parts work together to ensure that the pneumatic actuator can operate stably and reliably.
