Basics of Hydraulic and Pneumatic System

Basics of Hydraulic System

• Definition: A hydraulic system is a power transmission system that uses pressurized liquid (usually oil) to transmit force and motion.

• Principle: It works on Pascal’s Law, which states that pressure applied at one point of an enclosed fluid is transmitted equally in all directions.

• Main Components:

  • Hydraulic pump (converts mechanical power into fluid power)

  • Valves (control pressure, flow, and direction)

  • Actuators (cylinders or motors that convert fluid power into mechanical motion)

  • Hydraulic fluid (medium for power transmission and lubrication)

• Applications: Heavy machinery (excavators, presses), automotive brakes, aircraft systems.

• Advantages: High force output, precise control, smooth operation.

Basics of Pneumatic System

• Definition: A pneumatic system is a power transmission system that uses compressed air or gas to transmit and control energy.

• Principle: It works on the compression and expansion of air; force is generated by pressurized air acting on a piston or actuator.

• Main Components:

  • Compressor (supplies compressed air)

  • Valves (control air pressure, flow, and direction)

  • Actuators (pneumatic cylinders, air motors)

  • Air treatment units (filters, regulators, lubricators)

• Applications: Automation in industries, packaging machines, air brakes, dental tools.

• Advantages: Clean, lightweight, safe in hazardous environments, simple design.