Pneumatic Circuits
We are frequently asked 2 questions. How does a pneumatic timer work and how can it achieve the desired function for a given application? Here we have produced some sample circuits that demonstrate the most popular ways to use a TTCC pneumatic timer. In most cases we list all the components necessary to put the circuit to work, including pneumatic valves, cylinders and fittings. All components can be supplied direct from TTCC, branded Kuhnke.
TTCC can design a specific circuit for your application, using Kuhnke & Hengstler components to interface with any pneumatic system.
Free downloads of our pneumatic circuit designs are available here and we hope the headings are self explanatory. All we ask is that you register in order to download the PDFs.
General Advice
The circuits shown here are examples for system designers. The engineer responsible for the application, design, function and operation must satisfy him/herself that the principles set out in our circuits are suitable for the safe and proper operation of the application. TTCC accepts no responsibility for suitability and safe operation. We are very pleased to help you reach these objectives.
Pneumatic Timer Applications
Pneumatic timers are used where no electrical power is available or where an application calls for “intrinsically safe” means of timing. Applications can vary widely and examples may include: filling processes, dairies, vacuum pump timing, oil and gas industries, etc. Timers can be used for maximum periods, minimum periods, operating times etc and may be short interval (300 seconds or below) or long interval (up to 100 hours).
2 seperate timers are needed when timing “on” and “off” periods. Generally a timer acts as a pilot valve to control a main valve. Always consider how to start the timer running (say by a push button) and how to reset it; how to over-ride the timing process in the event of a critical stop, and how a continuous timer cycle may be achieved.
Pneumatic Counter Applications
Pneumatic counter applications are as diverse as the use of pneumatics. Generally counters will count pulses generated by the action of a cylinder, or its activating signal such as a trigger, push button or foot pedal. Pneumatic counters will be found in intrinsically safe situations such as petrochemicals or where liquids represent a hazard. Alternatively electrical supply may simply not be practical.
Examples include dose counting in agriculture, filling machines in automotive production, cut counting, and pneumatic handling. Counters will generally be used to achieve pre-set batch quantities, with customer preferences for either count down to zero (from a pre-set) or count up from zero (to a pre-set). Totalising counters by their very nature are frequently used to measure machine life or process values.
The Timer & Counter Company will help you design your pneumatic circuit, and can supply the components and complete sub-assemblies if required, for the total counter function. This may include the push button “start” and push button “reset” signal generators; the main operating valve that will convert the output from a pneumatic counter into the directional flow needed for overall function.
