Exercise Sheet

Chapter 11
Introduction to Pneumatic Systems
1 - Explain the principal of operation of pneumatic power systems.

Their principle of operation is similar to that of the hydraulic power systems. An air
compressor converts the mechanical energy of the prime mover into, mainly, pressure
energy of the compressed air. This transformation facilitates the transmission, storage,
and control of energy. After compression, the compressed air should be prepared for
use. The air preparation includes filtration, cooling, water separation, drying, and
adding lubricating oil mist. The compressed air is stored in compressed air reservoirs
and transmitted through transmission lines: pipes and hoses. The pneumatic power is
controlled by means of a set of valves such as the pressure, flow, and directional
control valves. Then, the pressure energy is converted to the required mechanical
energy by means of the pneumatic cylinders and motors.

2 - Discuss in detail the effect of air compressibility on the function of pneumatic

systems.
Due to the high compressibility of air
- The compressed air reservoirs are able to store a considerable amount of
energy. Therefore, they can be used as a source of energy in pneumatic systems.
- Pneumatic Systems Are Not Subject to Hydraulic Shocks due to the high
compressibility of air
3 - Deal with the effect of air density on the operation of pneumatic systems.
11.2.2 Effect of Air Density
1.Protection against hydraulic shocks, due to small inertia forces and high
compressibility of air.
2.Reduction of the total weight of the system.
3.The air speed in transmission lines is greater than that of liquids for the
same pressure difference. Therefore, small line diameters can be used which
leads to additional reduction of the system weight.

4 - Deal with the effect of air viscosity on the operation of pneumatic systems.
11.2.3 Effect of Air Viscosity
1.The friction losses in pneumatic transmission lines are very small which
allows reducing the line diameter.
2.On the other hand, it is difficult to achieve full tightness of pneumatic
systems.

5 - State and discuss briefly the advantages and disadvantages of pneumatic

systems.
6 - Draw the circuit of a simple pneumatic system and explain the function
of its elements.
7 - Explain the operation of ordinary pressure reducers and venting-type
pressure reducers, giving the necessary drawings.
8 - Explain the construction and operation of the different control valves
using the illustrations given by Figs. 11.7 to 11.16. (Draw the standard symbol for
each valve)

1 – Pneumatic Relive Valve

2 - Pressure Reducers

- Ordinary Pressure Reducers

- Venting-Type Pressure Reducers

3 - Poppet-Type Directional Control Valves

4 - Spool Type pneumatic directional control valves

5 - Pilot stage of a pneumatic directional control valve.

6 - Shuttle Valves; Logic OR Fig. 11-13

7 - Pressure Shuttle Valves; Logic AND Fig. 11- 14

8 - Flow Control Valves Fig. 11-15

9 - Quick Exhaust Valves Fig. 11-16

9 - Discuss the operation of the basic pneumatic circuits given by Figs. 11.17
through 11. 26.

11.5.1 Manual Control of a Single-Acting Cylinder

Initially, the directional control valve is under the action of the spring (10) (see Fig.
11.17a). The piston chamber is vented and the cylinder is fully retracted. By pushing
and holding the button (12), the piston chamber is pressurized and the cylinder
extends (see Fig. 11.17b). The cylinder retracts by releasing the button.
11.5.2 Unidirectional Speed Control of a Single-Acting Cylinder

Initially, the cylinder is fully retracted (see Fig. 11.18a). By pushing and holding the
button (12) (see Fig. 11.18b), the cylinder extends. Its speed is controlled by the
throttle valve (TC). When the button is released, the cylinder retracts without any
speed control as the air flows through the check valve out to the atmosphere.
11.5.3 Bidirectional Speed Control of a Single-Acting Cylinder

This system includes a 3/2 directional control valve, manually operated with
mechanical position locking. Two throttle check valves are installed to control the
extension and retraction speeds. Initially, the cylinder is retracted (see Fig. 11.19a).
By operating the lever (12), the cylinder extends (see Fig. 11.19b). Its speed, v2, is
controlled by the throttle valve (TC1). When the lever is reset, the cylinder retracts
and its speed, v1, is controlled by the throttle valve (TC2).