Effect of pneumatic actuators on efficiency in production automation
Modern production processes are almost entirely dependent on advanced technology and automation. In this context, pneumatics, as a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly energy carrier, is an integral element in the automation of production. Experienced with quality for 47 years, we prove that pneumatic actuators from CPP “PREMA” S.A. contribute to improving the efficiency of automated production systems.
Introduction to the role of pneumatics in manufacturing automation
Pneumatics as a technology, uses compressed air to transmit force. It has already become an essential component of many machines and devices for several decades on an industrial scale. It directly affects the lack or increase of efficiency in automated production systems. Through its use, it is possible to control various machine components, such as flaps, feeders, robot arms, dampers and many other actuators.
Increasing production efficiency with pneumatic actuators
Pneumatic actuators, thanks to their unique features, contribute to increasing the efficiency of production processes. The key factors here are speed, precision, reliability, repeatability and robustness.
Fast work
In industry, time is money. Pneumatic actuators can work very quickly, which can reduce production cycle times. The use of pneumatic actuators allowed one of our customers to shorten one of its production cycles by up to 30%.
Precise work
Pneumatic actuators are characterized by high precision, which is extremely important in many manufacturing processes. This reduces production errors, which translates into lower costs and higher product quality. One of our customers that has applied our solutions reduced the number of defective products and mistakes by almost 20%, compared to the previously used production technology.
Durability
Recognized for their quality, pneumatic actuators from CPP “PREMA” S.A. are known for their reliability. Heavy industry in particular appreciates their quality, supplying “tailor-made specialties” from us. They are not afraid of very harsh working conditions: high dust, extreme temperatures, aggressive chemicals or salt lye. Often our specialists, in order to correctly select and replace the actuator at the customer’s site, check realizations even from a dozen years ago.
Repeatability
Repeatability in the context of pneumatic actuators refers to the ability of these devices to perform the same movement with the same precision over multiple cycles of operation. Actuators from CPP “PREMA” S.A. guarantee high repeatability, which translates into stable production quality and minimizes the risk of errors or defective products. As a result, manufacturers can rely on consistent quality in the production process, regardless of the number of repetitions.
Good repeatability of pneumatic actuators translates into:
- a consistent level of product quality,
- less production waste,
- increased production efficiency.
Reliability
Last, but not least, is the reliability of pneumatic actuators. Thanks to their simple design and lack of delicate electronic parts, pneumatic actuators are very resistant to failure, which translates into less downtime during production.
Practical application - case study: Yellow cheese final pressing line
We present a practical example of the use of pneumatic actuators in the process of pressing yellow cheese:
Requirements to be met:
- special actuator with non-standard body mounting holes,
- resistance to washing with soda lye and nitric acid,
- mechanical signaling of proper actuator overdrive,
- improving the concentricity of the press stamp,
- quick identification of the location of a wire break without having to check the entire line of dozens of actuators connected in series,
- corrosion and oxidation elimination.
Solutions:
- designed an actuator with body mounting dimensions in accordance with the original with the same clamping force and stroke,
- the aluminum components of the actuator have been protected with a special anti-corrosion coating resistant to washing applications with soda lye and nitric acid,
- mechanical signaling that visually indicates the correct operation of a single pressure by using a double-sided piston rod,
- improving the concentricity of the punch operation by using double attachment of the piston rod and reducing the number of degrees of freedom,
- the use of acid-resistant materials and intra-channel tie-bolt fasteners.
Advantages and disadvantages of using pneumatic actuators in automated production
While pneumatic actuators have many advantages. There are also some challenges associated with their application, therefore it is important to have a good understanding of what these challenges are in order to overcome them effectively.
Pros
Reliability, simplicity of design and ease of servicing are just some of the many advantages of pneumatic actuators. In addition, due to their resistance to extreme conditions such as high temperatures, dust and aggressive chemicals, pneumatic cylinders are often chosen for use in harsh industrial environments.
Cons
Despite their many advantages, pneumatic actuators also have some disadvantages. The most important of these is the need to supply compressed air, which may require additional equipment. In addition, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure a long service life, efficient operation and protect us from costly leaks.
Summary
Pneumatic actuators are an integral part of modern production automation. Thanks to their unique characteristics, such as speed, precision and reliability, they can significantly increase the efficiency of manufacturing processes. However, like any technology, they also have their challenges, which you need to be aware of in order to use them effectively.
For more information on how pneumatic actuators can be used in your production, feel free to contact our team.
Links to other blog posts
- How to quickly choose a pneumatic actuator? Proven methods of machine builders – an article to help you choose the right pneumatic actuator.
- How to automate the production of products? Learn about a new machine for cutting, folding and packaging material in bales from CPP “PREMA” S.A. – an example use of pneumatic actuators in practice.