What does the term pneumatic refer to in engineering?

In engineering, the term pneumatic specifically refers to systems and processes that operate using gas or air. Pneumatics utilizes compressed air or gas to transmit energy and perform various tasks, such as moving actuators, driving machinery, or powering tools. This technology is widely used in manufacturing and automation due to its efficiency, speed, and ability to control forces and movements with precision.

The use of gas or air is a significant factor in pneumatic systems, as they offer advantages such as cleanliness (no contamination from fluids), rapid response times, and the ability to easily control the movement of components. Understanding the principles behind pneumatic technology is crucial for engineers and technicians working with such systems as it lays the foundation for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment that relies on compressed air or gas for operation.