Hydraulic Cylinder vs. Pneumatic Cylinder: A Comparative Analysis

Cylinders make something move. There are hydraulic cylinders and pneumatic cylinders. These two cylinders differ in their mode of motion production. Whereas hydraulic cylinders use oil from a pump to move, pneumatic cylinders use air from compression to exert pressure on a piston resulting in movement. A key difference between hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders is the amount of force they can produce. Hydraulic cylinders produce several times more force than pneumatic cylinders and are thereby suitable for various heavy duty operations. Secondly, pneumatic cylinders move faster than hydraulic cylinders. This is so because the compressibility and decompressibility of air is faster than that of liquid. When to use the two cylinders depends on force and speed. If more force is required, it is better to use a hydraulic cylinder, but if more speed is required, use a pneumatic cylinder. Some of the applications of the two cylinders are; a hydraulic cylinder is used to control heavy machinery like construction equipment and pneumatic cylinders operate delicate machinery like packaging machines. In conclusion, hydraulic cylinders are known for their strength and accuracy while pneumatic cylinders are known for power and speed. One should consider what force, speed and precision they will use.