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 | Pneumatic Control FAQ's |  |
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Frequently Asked Questions.
These are general ‘Rules of Thumb’ that cover most applications. If you require more detailed explanations please request the Datasheet reference number shown at the end of each question using the Request Form at the bottom of the page and we will email them through.
1. Cylinder Sizing – Ref. APQ01
To work out the available thrust from a cylinder use formula πD2P/40, Where: - D = Piston diameter in mm P = Pressure in Bar. Answer is in Newtons.
2. Valve Numbering, 2/2, 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 – Ref. APQ02 First Number is number of ports, numbered 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5, where applicable. Second number is number of valve positions or states. Either 2 or 3 positions are available.
3. Port Numbering – Ref. APQ02
Valve Body Port 1 – Mains Inlet 2/2, 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 Port 2 – Outlet 2/2, 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 Port 3 – Exhaust 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 Port 4 – Outlet 5/2, 5/3 Port 5 – Exhaust 5/2, 5/3
Pilot Ports 2/2, 3/2 5/2, 5/3 Port 10 – Port 1 connected to 0 Port 12 – Port 1 connected to port 2 Port 12 – Port 1 connected to port 2 Port 14 – Port 1 connected to port 4
4. Valve sizing – Ref. APQ03
As a general rule of thumb, if a cylinder is to be slowed down then use a valve one port size smaller than the cylinder port size. E.g. use a G1/4 valve with a G3/8 ported cylinder.
This will help reduce costs by using smaller, more cost effective parts.
5. Tube sizing – Ref. APQ03
If valve sizes are reduced as per Q4 above then match the tubing to the valve not the cylinder. E.g. Use 8mm tubing with a G1/4 ported valve. Again, smaller sizes help reduce costs.
6. Do I need to FILTER my air supply? – Ref. APQ04
Generally, YES. This removes most particles and water droplets that cause damage and premature malfunction of components’. Always check manufacturers’ recommendations for filtration level first.
7. Do I need to REGULATE my air supply? – Ref. APQ04
Generally YES. Optimum pressure is usually between 5 and 6 bar. Correct pressure reduces component fatigue and waste compressed air, thus, reducing costs.
8. Do I need to LUBRICATE my air supply? – Ref. APQ04
Generally NO. Modern pneumatic components are pre-lubricated during manufacture. However, if you start to lubricate you must continue as the airline oil washes out the manufacturers’ lubricant and causes premature wear. Again, always consult the manufacturers’ recommendations before making your decision.
9. Health & Safety – Ref. APQ05
Each application is different and must be assessed correctly in line with current safety standards. Some areas to consider include: -
Fit all machines with their own exhausting lockable ball valves. Reduce noise pollution by fitting silencers to valve exhaust ports. Reduce air pollution by feeding all valve exhaust ports through a coalescing exhaust silencer. Use soft start valves to re-introduce mains supplies in a controlled manner. All emergency stop circuits must have a latching emergency stop button and an independent and dedicated reset button. Use air saving safety nozzles and reduced pressure regulators on blow guns. Install air fuses in trailing hoses to avoid whip injuries if a pipe bursts. Use Two Hand Safety Start valves to keep operators safe.
10. Cost savings – Ref. APQ06
Compressed air is VERY expensive to generate. Using it economically can have huge cost saving benefits to your business.
Some areas to concentrate on include: -
Leak reduction has a huge benefit. Cost examples are shown in the additional information you can request. Regulate machine pressures correctly Filter air supplies to reduce internal damage from air bourn particles. Fit pressure reducing fittings to return strokes of cylinders where no work is carried out. Why operate at 6bar when 2bar will easily return the cylinder? Use air saving nozzles on blow guns. Fit vacuum generators to air knife lines. Sucks air into system from atmosphere instead of using expensive compressed air. Replace filter elements regularly.
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