How do pneumatic cylinders differ from hydraulic cylinders in their operating principles?

Pneumatic cylinders operate based on the principles of compressed air, while hydraulic cylinders function through the use of liquids, typically oil. This fundamental difference in the working medium highlights the core distinction between the two types of cylinders.

Pneumatic systems utilize compressible air, which allows for lighter and faster operations, making them ideal for applications that require rapid movement and less force. The ability to easily compress air also means that pneumatic systems can often be simpler and more efficient for certain tasks compared to hydraulic systems, which require the incompressible nature of liquid fluids to transmit power.

In contrast, hydraulic systems are capable of producing much higher force output, which is essential for heavy-duty applications. They work on the principle of Pascal's law, where pressure applied to a confined liquid in a system allows for significant force multiplication.

Understanding these differences in operating principles helps clarify why pneumatic and hydraulic systems are used in varied applications, each suited to particular needs based on their characteristics and strengths.