Looking for training? Have questions?
Phone: Phone: 32 4111 000
CNC Department: Phone: 515 485 139
We have prepared a package of specialized training courses that provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of pneumatics and electropneumatics, and allow you to acquire the skills to identify and eliminate problems related to the use of pneumatic systems.
Thanks to the acquired skills in reading diagram symbols, each participant will learn and understand the principles of design, assembly, construction and operation of pneumatic and electropneumatic control systems and actuators.
The Pneumatics Laboratory is equipped with seven independent assembly tables containing components from companies such as:
Pneumatic systems are widely used in various industries, playing an important role in performing various mechanical processes.
Let's start with a simple explanation of what pneumatic systems are. At a basic level, pneumatic systems use compressed air to transmit and control energy. They perform a similar function to hydraulic systems, except that instead of hydraulic fluid, pneumatic systems handle compressed air and gases.
When it comes to what is meant by compressed air, it is atmospheric air that is reduced in volume through compression. This then causes an increase in pressure.
Most pneumatic systems require a constant supply of compressed air to operate, which comes from air compressors. The compressor draws air from the atmosphere and stores it in a high-pressure tank called a receiver. Once compressed, the air is delivered to the system through a series of pipes and valves, acting on a piston.
Compressed air serves as the working medium. Typically, this pressure will be between 6kg/m² and 8kg/m². As a result, pneumatic systems can generate a maximum force of up to 50 kN.
For example, when an engineer begins operating a pneumatic system, air is drawn into a compressor and passed through lines to various tools. The compressed air drawn into the system activates pistons and shafts, forcing them into motion.

Manufacturing plants use compressed air to control factory automation due to its lower initial and ongoing costs compared to electricity. The popularity of pneumatic systems in these industries stems precisely from their more cost-effectiveness in performing mechanical movements. Compared to electric actuators, the simplicity and reliability of pneumatic systems are hard to beat.
The power transmission method offered by pneumatics is often the best way to move parts and tooling in industrial machinery. Pneumatic systems can perform a wide range of tasks in automated equipment, from clamping and gripping to positioning and stacking. Furthermore, they are also capable of adaptive applications such as pressing or tensioning, and each can incorporate closed-loop control for added precision.
Pneumatic systems are used in all types of assembly and manufacturing. They can be installed to move objects on assembly lines and in service facilities to move objects. Pneumatics can also be used in heavy machinery, such as drilling machines, due to the repeatable action they provide.
First and foremost, pneumatic systems are highly effective. Compressed air is not limited by distance, meaning it can be easily transported through pipes. Furthermore, with an unlimited supply of air from the atmosphere, pneumatics can easily generate energy from a source.
After use, compressed air can be released directly back into the atmosphere without the need for processing, making it economically viable. This, combined with the fact that pneumatic systems operate without pollutants, makes them an exceptionally environmentally friendly option.
Pneumatic systems also have the advantage of being highly durable and reliable. Their components, in particular, are exceptionally robust compared to electromotive components. The simplified design of pneumatic systems allows for linear or angular rotary motion with variable operating speeds. In terms of speed, the rectilinear and oscillatory motion of pneumatic systems is also easily adjustable and subject to fewer restrictions than other systems.
But perhaps the main advantage of using pneumatic systems is their cost-effectiveness. Thanks to the previously mentioned lower maintenance costs, their longevity ensures that maintenance and repair costs are significantly lower than those of most other systems on the market.

Pneumatic systems can be used as an alternative to electric actuators and motors to power linear and rotary motions. They are typically used for lighter loads because pneumatic systems generate less force than hydraulic systems, and because air is easily compressed, pneumatics can absorb excessive impact.
With advances in manufacturing and sealing technologies, such as corrosion resistance, the environment in which pneumatic systems can be used has expanded, with pneumatic performance comparable to that of some electric automation systems. Pneumatics is such a versatile way to power power tools and machinery that it remains an important technology in many sectors.
To choose a pneumatic system for industrial applications, consider your operating sequence needs. Pneumatics operate in linear and rotary motion and are a simple way to initiate output motion or apply force.
When selecting a pneumatic system, consider pressure and flow requirements to achieve the best possible performance. If the wrong components are used, the pneumatic system may not function properly.
Flow and pressure vary and must be controlled individually. Pressure regulation in compressed air systems does not accurately control flow, which can lead to increased energy costs.
While pressure is a force applied to a given area, flow is the volume of compressed air displaced in a given time. Higher pressure over a small area can be the same as lower pressure over a larger area. Flow control involves restricting the opening through which air can flow – when it closes, less air can flow at a given pressure in a given time.
The cost of maintaining pneumatic systems is generally low, but care should be taken to monitor for leaks and corrosion. Using a filtration system and monitoring the air supply will also ensure the pneumatic system is functioning as intended.
Because pneumatics utilize the energy stored in compressed air to perform tasks or operations, an air supply is required. The quality of the compressed air used must be sufficiently high to ensure efficient operation. Therefore, air conditioning in pneumatics is crucial, and moisture, unwanted dust particles, and oils must be extracted; otherwise, they can solidify or corrode certain components, such as valves and seals. Filtration is used in pneumatics to remove moisture droplets and solid particles, as well as aftercoolers and drying devices. The air supply must be continuously filtered and monitored to ensure the system operates efficiently and that individual components function properly.
Pneumatics are common in commercial vehicles, from cab and chassis applications to engines; the energy sector, including the oil, gas, and power generation industries, and food and beverage, where pneumatics are present in everything from bottle blow molding to process automation and packaging. Pneumatics also feature heavily in applications such as medical equipment and the global rail industry, where they are used in applications such as door controls and suspension.
Pneumatics are also used in manufacturing to power factory automation systems and are typically found in sectors such as material handling and packaging. Because they convert energy from compressed air into linear or rotary motion to perform specific tasks, pneumatics can be used to perform "pick and place" tasks, such as holding and positioning parts by clamping or gripping, or moving a tool that lifts, presses, divides, sorts, or stacks.
Pneumatics are also used in some types of factory machinery, such as paint sprayers. It is also commonly seen (and heard) in power tools, such as road drills, where compressed air is passed through a tube to pump a metal chisel into the pavement.