Fluid power controls and systems use pressurized, moving fluids within an enclosed circuit to generate, transmit, and control power. There are two basic types of products: pneumatic and hydraulic. Pneumatic fluid power systems use and exhaust a compressed gas such as air. These open systems require only one power source and feature relatively low component costs. Hydraulic fluid power systems use and recirculated liquids such as oil or water. These closed systems are noisier than pneumatic fluid power controls, and may operate at slower speeds. Applications for pneumatic and hydraulic fluid power controls and systems include material testing systems, machine tools, military aircraft, and power generation systems. Because they do not produce sparks, they carry a reduced risk of electric shock and can be used even in wet environments.
Pneumatic pump controls and pneumatic power systems are examples of pneumatic fluid power controls and systems. A pneumatic pump control contains a dome-type pneumatic pressure accumulator that is inserted in the fluid storage tank at a predetermined height. The pneumatic pump control then recharges the compressed air captured in the pressure accumulator to provide a high pressure. A pneumatic power system combines features from several pneumatic control systems. These fluid power controls and systems are relatively easy to install and operate. They often use electricity as their primary power source, and include opening, closing, and locking features. Battery-powered pneumatic fluid power controls and systems are also available.
Hydraulic pump controls and hydraulic fluid pumps are examples of pneumatic fluid power controls and systems. A hydraulic pump control senses differential pressures and maintains a constant differential pressure across the hydraulic control valves. Hydraulic pump controls deliver a high-pressure fluid such as oil or water to the outlet of the pump. Typically, a hydraulic fluid pump is powered by an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. Hydraulic fluid pumps are often selected because of their ability to transfer large amounts of power through small, flexible tubes and wide-array actuators can then use this power. Hydraulic fluid power controls and systems may also include various fluid power components and control power systems for industrial applications.