Pneumatic Tools | A Quick Guide To An Amazing Set Of Instruments
The principle behind pneumatic tools implies utilizing compressed air to generate a repetitive motion. The compressed air, which enters the tool via a flexible and resilient hose, is directed towards a piston-equipped cylinder. As it expands, the air generates sufficient force to thrust this piston towards the other end of the cylinder as it exits […]
The principle behind pneumatic tools implies utilizing compressed air to generate a repetitive motion. The compressed air, which enters the tool via a flexible and resilient hose, is directed towards a piston-equipped cylinder. As it expands, the air generates sufficient force to thrust this piston towards the other end of the cylinder as it exits and, after it has been completely released, the piston reverts to the initial spot. The process is repetitive and the air intake is governed by the action of the cylinder’s valves, therefore generating recurrent motions of the pneumatic tool for as long as the hose keeps feeding it compressed air.
How many cylinders are necessary?
The number of piston-equipped cylinders depends entirely on the dimensions of the pneumatic tool and on whether or not it is light duty or heavy duty equipment. To be more exact, smaller pneumatic tools such as air staplers or nail guns only require a single cylinder in order to produce the adequate amount of force to drive a nail or staple into the material that requires fastening. On the other hand, a large, heavy duty pneumatic drill utilized in constructions or mining necessitates two or even three cylinders to achieve the basic air pressure for the job.
What kinds of tools rely on the compressed air principle?
As previously mentioned, pneumatic tools come in all shapes and sizes, as compressed air can be utilized for a wider array of purposes. For instance, in addition to the types of pneumatic tools previously mentioned, we also have the blow gun, the caulking gun, the compressed air sander, the jackhammer and many, many more. On a side note, compressed air was initially employed – and it is still currently used – for immense mining drills.
Some safety tips to remember while operating pneumatic tools
While these tools constitute an excellent addition to a construction company’s inventory thanks to their versatility, proficiency and straightforward modus operandi, improperly assembling, maintaining and using them presents several risks. Let’s elaborate:
Attaching an improper hose diameter to the pneumatic tool could cause damage and potential injuries; if it’s too small there is a chance it will burst, whereas if it’s too big the force of compressed air will make it come loose
A damaged or worn feeding hose should be replaced as soon as possible, because it presents the same risks as mentioned above
Utilizing hoses designed for purposes other than pneumatic tools is dangerous, since they cannot withstand the force exerted by the pressurized air; the minimal pressure rating for a pneumatic tool hose is 150 PSIG, but if you cannot find one with this specific value you should purchase a hose with a PSIG that meets or exceeds 150% of the max air pressure outputted by the pneumatic tool
When clearing the line prior to connecting it to the pneumatic tool, point the end away from the body and anyone else in the proximity
Be careful about potential risks to the hose in the area where the tool is installed, including objects with sharp edges, vehicle/pedestrian traffic, etc.
Lubrication is the key to the optimal efficiency of your pneumatic tool
