Pneumatic Automation Components

Airmovers use a pneumatic input (see black arrow) to suck in surrounding atmospheric air (red arrows) and create a high volume output airflow (blue arrows).  This means they are quieter and much more efficient than using compressed air alone.  This "air amplification" effect can result in up to 15 times the volume of output air per unit of input air.

The design has no moving parts and can be instantly turned on & off as required (ideal in an automated sequence).  The hollow bore enables throughput of powders, gases or small light parts.  This makes them ideal for exhausting fumes, smoke, dust etc or conveying products or offcuts.

Airmovers need no maintenance.  They don't require any electricity.  They are safe and simple.  Outputs can be ducted if necessary.

Model types available include:

• fixed gap
• adjustable gap
• stainless steel
• acetal
• strip
• nozzle ("airmiser")

Airmover applications include cooling or drying products, removing dust or liquid, expelling contaminated air or blowing fresh air into a confined space.  Sizes range from a 10 mm diameter throat up to a 125 mm diameter.

For simple drying/cleaning/airblasting/cooling operations by hand, every workstation or machine should have a blowgun and flexible hose.

Air fittings come in many types & sizes.  Both mainline pipework and local tubing can be a variety of different materials.  They can also come in many sizes (rated on both inside and outside diameters).  We can help you to find a range that suits your needs.

Where pneumatic motion has to be precise and smooth, oil-filled dampers and shock absorbers give maximum control.  Ideal for both stroke metering and end-of-stroke shock absorbtion applications in a wide range of sizes and forces.  

Flow controls are available in a large range of sizes to enable precise adjustment of speeds.  From port mounted banjo-style fittings to large body ported in-line units.

Check valves are available from simple small in-line Non-Return-Valves to large capacity pilot operated check valves.  For safety critical applications, there are even Redundant Load Holding Valves with solenoid or pilot operation and safety-rated status switch.

Float joints help combat misalignment, load variation and flexibility issues.  This is especially useful on linear applications where these types of problems can result in excessive wear and early failure of pneumatic actuators.

Ball valves and sleeve valves can be used in some applications for 2/2 & 3/2 functions.  They are simple, cost-effective and come in various sizes.

These should not be used for energy isolation where safety is important as they do not comply with proper standards.  For more info on pneumatic energy isolation, click here or refer to AS 4024.1.

For proper pneumatic energy isolation, a "LOX" valve allows compliance with safety requirements such as:

• is easy to identify
• is simple to operate
• provides rapid exhaust
• can be locked "off"
• has provision for visual confirmation

This is ideal for maintenance, cleaning & setting-up procedures.  However, if circumstances require more elaborate air isolation, redundant "block and bleed" valves can be used.  See our Safety Equipment section or refer to AS 4024.1 for more information.

Mufflers are available in many types, sizes and materials.  They are useful in:

• stopping dirt, dust & grime entering your equipment through exposed exhaust ports
• making exhaust-to-atmosphere quieter
• altering speed of operation

It is important to size mufflers correctly for the volume of air they need to pass per unit of time.  You should also consider that excess oil, water and dirt particles will clog your muffler over time.  Different types of mufflers suit different applications.  Some can be washed, some are quieter, some incorporate (intentional) speed control etc.

Always remember that a muffler on a safety valve will affect it's performance considerably.  This can be critical to safety.

To protect against accidents & injuries caused by air hose whip, the hose fuze will detect a blown fitting and reduce airflow to a trickle.  This also prevents wastage of air exhausting to atmosphere.

Vacuum generators use a pneumatic supply to create vacuum for use with vacuum cups to pick-up items of all shapes & sizes.  Compact size and simple, fast operation make them ideal to be mounted close to the pick-up point for maximum efficiency.  Various model types are available including:

• straight push-in fitting style
• banjo push-in fitting style
• block type
• block type with electrical switch

Vacuum cups come in many sizes, shapes, and materials.  Choosing the right cup for the job is paramount to maintain effective performance.  (Issues to consider include texture, porosity, surface area and weight.)  Cups can have features such as:

• round or oval shape
• vinyl, urethane or silicon material
• bellows or cleats

For compact and convenient pressure information, the SQ series gauge fittings are ideal.  Available as a straight fitting, elbow, in-line T-fitting or bulkhead.

Filters, Regulators & Lubricators help make sure your compressed air is good quality.  This makes accurate, reliable control of your pneumatic equipment easy.  Remember it's always best to treat air as close as possible to where it's being used.

Ask us about pre-assembled Air Service Units - supplied boxed & ready with gauge & mounting bracket.

Fittings and other accessories may also be required.  See above for other requirements.