Hydraulic and Pneumatics

Hydraulic and pneumatic systems are basic technologies for power transfer and control in many sectors. Both systems use fluid power in distinct ways: hydraulics uses liquids (usually oil), and pneumatics uses compressed air or other gases. Hydraulics operates on fluid pressure, where a pump compresses fluids, conduits carry fluids to the targeted section of a machine, and a piston generates the expected effect. Pneumatics use gas instead of fluid, forcing the compressed air through pipes to specific tools.

The benefits of hydraulics include the fact that the liquid used in the system does not absorb energy, they can move very heavy loads and provide higher forces due to the incompressibility of liquid, they are highly responsive compared to pneumatics, and they can perform multiple tasks at any one time, such as cooling, transmitting power, and lubricating. Pneumatics, such as jackhammers, are mainly used for hand tools that perform repetitive motions. The advantages of pneumatics include their simple design and application, safety compared to hydraulics, and high reliability due to their long operating lifespan and resistance to shock damage.