Pneumatics in food industry drives
Pneumatics is an important component in the food industry, especially in beverage production. Thanks to its advantages such as reliability, versatility and ease of control, pneumatics are often used in various stages of the beverage production process.
In the case of beverage production lines, pneumatics are used in processes such as raw material handling, ingredient mixing, bottle or can filling, labeling and packaging. All of these processes require precision, repeatability and speed, and pneumatics are perfect for this.
An example of the application of pneumatics in the beverage industry is the bottle filling system. Pneumatic actuators are used to precisely position the bottles, e.g. SKY series guided compact actuators, and then fill them with the correct amount of liquid using ASCO process valves, for example. This makes the process fast, accurate and reliable.
The packaging of finished products is also worth mentioning. Pneumatic grippers such as the CPKB series of angle grippers are used to transfer bottles or cans to conveyor belts, and then to place them in the appropriate bulk packaging using, for example, the SKP series of compact rotation-protected cylinders. This makes the packaging process fast and efficient.
Compressed air transportation: the key to efficiency
Compressed air transportation plays a key role in the production processes of the beverage industry. Examples of effective use of compressed air transportation include:
- Reducing energy losses: proper design and installation of compressed air conveying systems minimizes energy losses, resulting in lower production costs.
- Reducing energy losses: proper design and installation of compressed air conveying systems minimizes energy losses, resulting in lower production costs.
- Reduced downtime: regular maintenance and monitoring of compressed air conveying systems allows you to detect possible problems and solve them quickly, which minimizes production downtime. The use of appropriate compressed air dryers as well as regular monitoring of air quality allows to maintain the quality of production processes and minimize the risk of product contamination and failures.

Required quality of compressed air: standards and norms
In the beverage industry, the quality of compressed air is crucial to production processes. There are various standards and norms for compressed air quality, such as ISO 8573-1, which specify requirements for air purity, oil content, moisture content and particulate matter. By complying with these standards and norms, the quality of production processes can be maintained and the risk of product contamination can be minimized.
Compressed air drying: why is it important?
Compressed air drying is important for maintaining proper air quality in the production processes of the beverage industry. Improper compressed air drying can lead to negative effects such as:
- Corrosion of devices: moisture in compressed air can corrode devices leading to damage and production downtime.
- Product contamination: moisture in compressed air can lead to the growth of bacteria and mold, jeopardizing product quality and safety.
- Increased costs: improper drying of compressed air can lead to increased costs for maintenance and repair of equipment and loss of products due to contamination.
The use of appropriate cyclone separators and refrigerated dehumidifiers, as well as regular monitoring of air quality, makes it possible to maintain the quality of production processes and minimize the risks associated with biological contamination of products.
Application of pneumatic actuators in the beverage industry
Pneumatic actuators, used in beverage production, are used for a variety of tasks such as bottle filling, labeling, and quality control. Thanks to their precision speed and reliability, pneumatic actuators help make production processes more efficient and maintain high product quality.

Types of pneumatic actuators and their applications
Various types of pneumatic actuators can be found in the beverage industry, such as:
- SSI series pin linear actuators: used for rectilinear movements, such as lifting or moving parts. They can be used for filling bottles or cans and for labeling.
- ARCTREG series rotary actuators: are used for rotary movements, such as turning components. They are used in component mixing or quality control systems.
- Diaphragm actuators: used for precise dispensing of liquids, such as in the process of filling bottles or cans.
Pneumatic actuator installation: steps and tips
Proper installation of a pneumatic actuator is crucial to its proper operation. Some of the tips for proper of mounting pneumatic actuators are:
- Choose the right actuator: select the right actuator for the task, taking into account force, speed and range of motion requirements.
- Prepare the installation site: make sure the installation site is stable, clean and free of obstacles that could hinder the operation of the actuator.
- Install the actuator: mount the actuator according to the manufacturer’s instructions, use the appropriate fasteners, e.g. ball joints, ears, yokes, feet. Take care of proper connection to mechanical and pneumatic components. Don’t forget the appropriate connectors such as the 80.5092 series throttling valve couplings.
- Conduct tests: check the operation of the actuator by observing its movement and response to control signals. If necessary, make adjustments with throttle valves or dampers.

Actuator control: how does it work?
The operation of pneumatic actuators is controlled by special systems that control the flow of compressed air into the actuator. Examples of such systems are:
- Electro-pneumatic valves of the ZMG series: electrically controlled, they allow precise control of air flow and the speed of response of an actuator.
- TM series mechanical valves: controlled by mechanical motion, such as a lever or button, used in simpler applications.
- AVENTICS proportional valves: allow infinite control of air flow, which allows precise control of actuator force and speed.
Advantages of pneumatic actuators in beverage production
The use of pneumatic actuators in food applications brings many benefits, such as:
- High precision: pneumatic actuators allow precise motion control, which affects the quality of processes such as filling and labeling.
- Speed and reliability: with fast response to control signals and low failure rates, pneumatic actuators contribute to production efficiency.
- Ease of integration: pneumatic actuators can be easily integrated into existing control systems and other devices, allowing production lines to flexibly adapt to changing needs.
- Product unification: when manufacturers’ standard solutions do not meet users’ expectations, it is possible to select devices while maintaining the existing mounting system.
- Safety: compared to hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders are less prone to leakage. Their leaks are not associated with leaks of a potentially dangerous medium such as hydraulic oil, which translates into greater operational safety.
Pneumatic components and devices in the food industry
The food industry uses various pneumatic components and devices to improve production processes and maintain high product quality. Among them we can mention hoses for the food industry, check valves, or magnetic field sensors of the 17.10C4.01 series. It is worth noting the specifics of these components and their application in practice.

Tubes for the food industry: what you need to know
Hoses for the food industry must meet special requirements, such as resistance to high temperatures, chemicals and ease of cleaning. When choosing hoses, it is worth paying attention to the material from which they are made and their design. The hoses should be made of materials approved for food contact and have a declaration of conformity (DoC), such as polyurethane 80.0259.149/150, polyamide 80.0259.12 or Teflon 80.0259. It is also important that the hoses are abrasion resistant and easy to install and remove.

Valve solutions: check valves and other types
Valves used in the food industry perform various functions, such as controlling the flow of fluids or maintaining pressure in pneumatic systems. Among them are check valves, which prevent backflow of liquids; ball valves, which allow quick opening and closing of the flow; and Diaphragm valves, which are used for precise dispensing of fluids. The selection of the right type of valve depends on the specifics of the process and the requirements for control and regulation.
Stainless steel for pneumatic equipment: why is it so important?
Stainless steel is a material often used in the manufacture of pneumatic equipment for the food industry. And its advantages include resistance to corrosion, high temperatures and ease of cleaning. The use of stainless steel in pneumatic components, such as valves, actuator components or fittings, contributes to the durability of equipment and the maintenance of hygienic production processes. In addition, stainless steel is an approved material for food contact, which guarantees the safety of food products.
Modernization of pneumatic systems in the food industry
Upgrading pneumatic systems in the food industry is critical to improving the efficiency of production processes and maintaining high product quality. Examples of the benefits of upgrading pneumatic systems include increased competitiveness, energy savings, and better installation and maintenance practices for pneumatic equipment.
Food contact: how pneumatics affect the competitiveness of the food industry
The use of pneumatics in the food and beverage industry has a significant impact on competitiveness in food and beverage production, as it allows faster and more precise movement of ingredients through the manufacturing process. Examples of the benefits of pneumatics include increased productivity, reduced product losses and improved process hygiene. By using modern pneumatics technology, food companies can better adapt to changing market demands and offer customers safe, higher-quality products.
Energy savings with modern pneumatic drives
Modern pneumatic actuators save energy, which translates into lower operating costs and less environmental impact. Examples of the benefits of energy savings include reduced electricity consumption, in each component of the plant. Less heat loss and improved energy efficiency of devices. The introduction of energy-saving pneumatic solutions, such as low-energy-consumption valves, can significantly reduce production costs and increase the competitiveness of food companies.
Installation and maintenance of pneumatic devices - best practices
Proper installation and maintenance of pneumatic devices are key activities for maintaining its efficiency and long-term operation. Guidelines for proper installation and maintenance of pneumatic devices include:
- Following the manufacturer’s instructions: reading the technical documentation and following the recommendations for installation, maintenance and operation of the devices.
- Regular inspection and maintenance: systematically checking the condition of the devices and replacing worn parts, which allows you to detect possible problems at an early stage.
- Using the right installation tools and accessories: using tools and materials that comply with the technical requirements of the equipment contributes to its longer service life.
- Staff training: ensuring that employees responsible for the installation and maintenance of pneumatic devices have the right level of knowledge and skills.
The application of best practices in the installation and maintenance of pneumatic devices allows to maintain their high efficiency and long-term operation, which translates into better efficiency of production processes and lower operating costs.
Summary
In this article, we discussed the most important aspects related to the modernization of pneumatic systems in the food industry. We outlined how pneumatics contribute to the competitiveness of the food industry, helping to increase productivity, reduce product losses and improve process hygiene. We then discussed the energy-saving benefits of modern pneumatic actuators, such as low-energy valves. Finally, we outlined best practices for installing and maintaining pneumatic devices, such as following the manufacturer’s instructions, regular inspection and maintenance, using the right tools and materials, and training personnel.
It is worth remembering that if you are interested in CPP “PREMA” S.A.’s products, our staff can help you select an actuator with the right force and parameters that works well in the food industry.
Thanks to Mr. Sebastian Kania, Senior Technical and Commercial Specialist at CPP “PREMA” S.A. for his substantive assistance in preparing the entry.