Two of the most useful tool categories used to produce mechanical actions include pneumatic tools and hydraulic tools. Some of the best pneumatic tools and equipment are air brakes, air compressors, air guns, pneumatic cylinders, pneumatic sensors, and vacuum pumps. Heavy equipment used for construction tasks is the best examples of hydraulic tools.
Each of these two categories of tools is used for specific applications. There are some advantages of pneumatic tools that hydraulic tools lack and vice versa. To select the right tool for a particular application, you need to know how to compare the two sets of tools. Learn how to perform this comparison in the following sections.
Comparison between basic operations
Pneumatic tools use compressible gases. These can include compressed air or compressed inert gases. On the other hand, the operation of hydraulic tools and equipment is based on incompressible liquids. It is worth noting that each of these tool sets uses the principle of fluid power in the opposite way.
Typical pressure range
Pneumatic equipment is required where comparatively lower pressure is required. These tools and equipment use a pressure that typically ranges from 80 to 100 pounds per square inch. On the other hand, hydraulic devices use much higher pressure that can exceed up to 10,000 pounds per square inch. This is why hydraulic tools can withstand heavy construction tasks and other similar applications.
Simplicity, control and storage
It goes without saying that pneumatic tools are simpler designs compared to hydraulic equipment. In addition, they are easier to use and control and have simpler operations. Going further, they require very little storage space.
Terms of reliability and use
Hydraulic equipment is more prone to damage due to the type of applications in which it is involved. Also, incompressible fluids are more difficult to control than compressible ones. This also indicates that hydraulic tools require more maintenance than their pneumatic counterparts. If properly maintained, both pneumatic and hydraulic equipment can last up to 15 years.
Noise level
Pneumatic tools are responsible for causing the most noise when operating. In comparison, hydraulic equipment has a quieter operation. The reason for this may be the applications for which these two toolkits are used.
Operating conditions
When it comes to operating conditions, hydraulic tools can be easily used in different types of environments. For example, these equipments can be used in different temperature ranges. Pneumatic tools do not operate in freezing temperatures, but hydraulic equipment can operate in these conditions. Going further, hydraulic machines can work underwater, where pneumatic equipment does not work.
Price comparison
As is clear from the discussion so far, hydraulic equipment has higher start-up costs compared to tools based on pneumatic technology. However, the efforts made to maintain these tools should decide your overall costs.
The above comparison does not mean that pneumatic tools or hydraulic equipment have pros and cons. It is just to provide an idea on the type of applications and environments that each of these categories of tools works for.