Since the 1800s, there were pneumatic tubes. They were used to transport mail to London in their early days. In major cities such as New York, Boston, Paris and Berlin, they became increasingly popular and became part of the city infrastructure and used in businesses around the world.
However, pneumatic tubes became a less popular option after two world wars and the advent of new technology. Although the industry appears to decrease, the Festo Pneumatic Cylinder market continues today to be vibrant.
The numerous applications of electric and pneumatic actuators are well known. Should you be confused about what kind of actuator of these two is suitable for your requirements, we will support you.
An electric actuator uses electric energy to produce mechanical energy. A pneumatic actuator, while an air driven actuator is a mechanical force transferring air pressure to the valve.
High strength & speed – For the strength and velocity of the pneumatic actuators, they are also stronger and faster per unit size than electric actuators.
Therefore, pneumatic actuators should be definitely used for you, which need to control and regulate the force and speed in the system.
Component cost – You would be happy to know that components are low if you considered the costs of the pneumatic actuators. There are high costs for components in electrical actuators and thus users are often avoided.
Operating cost – Despite the low pneumatic actuator components, the pneumatic actuators have very high maintenance and operating costs compared to electric actuators. These costs consist of cylinder replacement costs, electricity charges, airline installation and maintenance costs, etc.
Heating – The Festo Compact Cylinder is favored by many because of the perfect design that resists overheating. The electric drives can, by contrast, tend to overheat. If you want a pneumatically controlled actuator that is not overheated easily, go.
Moisture – A further difference is their moisture resistance between these two types of actuators. Although pneumatic actuators are not sensitive to humidity or to humidity, they have to be moisture-free.
Stalling – They can be stalled easily when it comes to pneumatic actuators. The electrical ones, however, can not be stopped during their operation or use.
Torque to weight ratio – In the case of electric actuators, pneumatic actuators have a high torque to weight ratio.
So, remember all these things and go to the control unit which best fits your needs. After all, investing in these strategies is not an easy choice! So, consider all the differences and choose the right actuator.
