Pneumatics Flashcards
What is the primary function of compressors in a pneumatic system?
Compress the air to the desired pressure
Compressors are essential for increasing the pressure of the air in pneumatic systems.
What is the role of intercoolers in a pneumatic system?
Cool the air between compression stages
Intercoolers help maintain efficiency by reducing the temperature of the air during compression.
What do aftercoolers do in a pneumatic system?
Cool the air after compression
Aftercoolers are used to lower the temperature of compressed air before it moves to the next stage or component.
What is the function of moisture separators in a pneumatic system?
Remove liquid from the air
Moisture separators are crucial for preventing water from entering the system, which can cause damage.
What is the purpose of air receivers in a pneumatic system?
Store pressurized air
Air receivers help compensate for fluctuations in demand and can dampen pulsations in reciprocating compressors.
Where can air receivers be located in some pneumatic system designs?
After the air dryers
This configuration helps ensure the air is dry before storage.
What do cyclonic separators prevent in a pneumatic system?
Prevent liquids from entering the air dryer
Cyclonic separators enhance the efficiency of the drying process by removing liquid contaminants.
What is the function of filters in a pneumatic system?
Remove contaminants in the air
Filters are essential for maintaining air quality and preventing damage to downstream components.
What do air dryers do in a pneumatic system?
Remove water vapour to dry the air
Air dryers are vital for ensuring that the air supplied to the system is moisture-free.
What should the air intake of a pneumatic system be located in?
Cool, dry, and clean air
The quality of intake air affects the efficiency of the compressor.
Why is cooler air more efficient for compressors?
Cooler air is denser
Denser air allows compressors to operate more effectively.
What design considerations should be made for intake and discharge piping?
Fewest bends possible and large enough to minimize pressure drop
Proper piping design is crucial for maintaining system efficiency.
What are air receivers classified as?
Pressure vessels
This classification means they must adhere to safety codes and regulations.
What must all pressure vessels have according to the Alberta Safety Codes Act?
A gauge, drain, safety relief valve, and connections for the piping system
These components are essential for safe operation and maintenance.
What additional feature must larger air receivers have?
A removable access hole cover for inspection and cleaning purposes
This feature ensures that larger receivers can be properly maintained.
What is a grid system?
Simplest piping system,
Has central main with feeder lines splitting off to work locations
Main starts as large diameter but gradually decreases the further away from the compressor
What is a decentralized system
AKA unit system,
Composed of 2 or more compressors each with own grid
Each compressor is close to point of use reducing pressure drop, ensuring more uniform supply and pressure
What is a loop system?
The preferred/recommended system for most applications
Has 2 or more compressors feeding the same loop, ensuring equal air distribution through the plant
What is a shuttle valve?
Used to automatically select the higher os 2 pressure inputs; used for pneumatic control input logic OR function
What is a 2 pressure valve?
Aka dual pressure valve; is used to create pneumatic signal if 2 input pressure sources are present; used to create pneumatic control input AND function
What cylinder has a limited use in pneumatics?
Ram type, but have the advantage of stroke being almost as long as the cylinder
What must be taken into consideration with double acting cylinders in pneumatics?
That cylinder stroke is unlimited in principle, but buckling and bending of extended rod must be taken into consideration
Describe a double rod or non differential cylinder
Commonly used where force applied in both directions needs to be equal, always double acting, rod size is customizable to task
What are the different types of piston seals?
Oring, shaped ring, square ring, supported groove and slide ring,
Cup packing, double cup packing
What is the most common pneumatic motor?
The vane motor