Strand 4 Power Systems — Pneumatic Systems (Outcome 4.14) Study Notes

Pneumatic Schematic

A map of how compressed air, valves, and actuators are connected for machine operation.

Functional Schematic

A schematic that is drawn for clarity and logical flow, not based on physical component locations.

Main Working Line

The line that carries supply air in a pneumatic system.

Exhaust Line

The line that vents air to the atmosphere, often returning to a muffler.

Pilot Control Lines

Small signal lines that command a valve to shift in a pneumatic system.

Directional Control Valve (DCV)

A valve that controls the direction of airflow within a pneumatic system.

3/2 Valve

A directional control valve with 3 ports and 2 positions, used for single-acting cylinders.

5/2 Valve

A directional control valve with 5 ports, used for double-acting cylinders.

5/3 Valve

A directional control valve with 5 ports and 3 positions.

Single-Acting Cylinder

An actuator that uses air to move in one direction and a spring for return.

Double-Acting Cylinder

An actuator that uses air to move in both directions.

FRL Unit

Filter-Regulator-Lubricator, a component used in pneumatic systems for air preparation.

Flow Control

A variable restriction symbol often used to control the speed of actuators.

Pressure Measurement

The assessment of pressure commonly measured at various points in a pneumatic system.

Flow Measurement

The quantification of air movement through the system, often measured with flow meters.

Temperature Measurement

The process of assessing air temperature to determine effects of compression and expansion.

Dew Point

The temperature at which water vapor in air begins to condense into liquid.

Compressor

A device that raises air pressure and heats the air during the process.

Receiver Tank

A storage unit that holds compressed air and helps smooth out demand peaks.

Filter

A component that removes particulates and condensed water from compressed air.

Regulator

A device that reduces and stabilizes downstream pressure in a pneumatic system.

Lubricator

A component that adds oil mist to the air for lubrication of pneumatic devices.

Check Valve

A one-way valve that allows air to flow in only one direction.

Quick Exhaust Valve

A valve that allows for rapid venting of air to increase actuator speed.

Push-to-Connect Fitting

A fitting that allows for quick connection of tubing to a pneumatic system.

NPT Threads

National Pipe Thread, a standard for threaded connections in pneumatic applications.

Leak Detection

The process of identifying leaks in a pneumatic system using auditory or solution tests.

System Integrity

The condition of having correct pressure, adequate flow, clean air, and leak-free components.