Practically every industrial process requires objects to be moved, manipulated or be subjected to some form of force. This is generally accomplished by means of electrical equipment (such as motors or solenoids), or via devices driven by air (pneumatics) or liquids (hydraulics).
Traditionally, pneumatics and hydraulics are thought to be a mechanical engineer’s subject (and are generally taught as such in colleges). In practice, techniques (and, more important, the fault-finding methodology) tend to be more akin to the ideas used in electronics and process control.
This book has been written by a process control engineer as a guide to the operation of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. It is intended for engineers and technicians who wish to have an insight into the components and operation of a pneumatic or hydraulic system. The mathematical content has been deliberately kept simple with the aim of making the book readable rather than rigorous. It is not, therefore, a design manual, and topics such as sizing of pipes and valves have been deliberately omitted.
The second edition was updated to include recent developments such as the increasing use of proportional valves, and an expanded section on industrial safety.
Preface
1 Fundamental Principles.
Industrial Prime Movers
A Brief System Comparison
An electrical system
A hydraulic system
A pneumatic system
comparison.
Definition of Terms.
Mass and force
Pressure
Work, energy and power
Torque
Pascal’s Law
Pressure Measurement
Fluid Flow.
Temperature
Temperature scales
Temperature measurement
Gas Laws
2 Hydraulic Pumps and Pressure Regulation
Pressure Regulation
Pump Types.
Gear pumps
Vane pumps
Piston pumps
Combination pumps
Loading Valves
Pump Problems
Filters
3 Air Compressors, Air Treatment and Pressure Regulation
Compressor Types.
Piston compressors.
Screw compressors
Rotary compressors
