What main advantage does a pneumatic system have over hydraulic systems?

A significant advantage of pneumatic systems compared to hydraulic systems is their lightweight construction and the quicker actuation capabilities they offer. Pneumatic systems utilize compressed air to generate movement, making them inherently lighter than hydraulic systems, which rely on heavy fluids and pumps. This reduction in weight can be particularly beneficial in applications where mobility and ease of installation are important.

Additionally, the actuation speed in pneumatic systems tends to be faster, allowing for more rapid movement and responsiveness compared to hydraulic systems. This is largely due to the lower viscosity of air compared to hydraulic fluids, which enables quicker movement through the system. Such speed and efficiency make pneumatic systems ideal for applications requiring quick repetitive motions or those where lightweight components are essential.

In contrast, although hydraulic systems can provide greater force output and are often robust, they tend to be heavier and slower compared to their pneumatic counterparts. Therefore, the combination of being lightweight and facilitating faster actuation positions pneumatic systems favorably in specific operational applications.