Pneumatic Actuator

A Pneumatic actuator is used to convert energy into linear or rotary motion depending on the type of actuator being used. There are various types of pneumatic actuators and these include rotary actuators, grippers, vacuum generators and tie rod cylinders. A pneumatic actuator basically consists of a cylinder, piston, and valves or ports. The piston is covered by a diaphragm which keeps the air in the upper part of the cylinder, and this allows the air pressure to force the diaphragm downward, which moves the piston below, which in turn moves the valves stem linked to the internal parts of the actuator. Depending on the action required these actuators may have only one place for a signal input. They require little pressure to operate and they are capable of doubling or tripling the input force. The output pressure can be increased by increasing the size of the piston and sometimes can be a good option especially in applications where air supply is particularly low, allowing the same forces with less input.