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Electro Pneumatics Training for Industrial Workers: A Great Investment!

A well-trained workforce is the backbone of any successful business. This is especially true for workers in the manufacturing sectors where even the shortest downtime could be very costly.

Technology is always changing and workers have to be retrained every so often to sharpen their skills. Previously pneumatics and electronics were two completely disciplines, however, as manufacturing shifted to automated systems the integration of the two became inevitable.

What Is Electro Pneumatics?

Pneumatics just like hydraulic systems utilizes fluid power. The only difference is that in pneumatics systems, inert gases are used instead of liquids. However, to get the most of a pneumatic system, there needs to be a way to start, monitor, and stop the process.

Electro-pneumatic systems use electrical technologies to control the compressed air used as the working medium. Electrical devices such as solenoids, limits switches, valves, and relays are some of the mechanisms used.

In a typical electro-pneumatic setup, electrical power is applied to a directional control valve. The valve then regulates the air pressure to various devices connected such as cylinders. Variation in pressure causes the cylinders to either extend or retract. This movement is transformed into useful work.

In very complex systems Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are used instead of valves and relays. Auxiliary devices such as position sensors, pressure sensors, proximity switches, and flow switches are added to make it easier to monitor the process.

How is this Discipline Used in the Industry?

Electro pneumatics systems have diverse applications which can be broadly categorized into two types.

Large Scale Applications

Aerospace exploration and aeronautical engineering are some of the biggest application of electro-pneumatic systems. In both applications, it is necessary to pressurize the fuselage of the aircraft whether it a rocket or a passenger plane.

The cabins are pressurized and depressurized to sea level with the help of electro-pneumatics. The sensors detect any leakages and change in altitude to make necessary adjustments.

Small Scale Applications

• Nail Gun: Nail guns are an important tool in construction. Air from a compressor is stored in a chamber within the nail gun. When the trigger is pulled, the plunger is depressed and forces the piston up ejecting the nails.
• Jackhammer: This tool is connected to an external compressor to deliver compressed air which then forces the drill up and down like an automatic hammer.
• Air Brakes: Apart from trucks and buses, air brakes are also used in other moving machines. The compressed air pressed on a piston slows down the movement of a component due to friction.
• Industrial Conveyors: Manufacturing products sometimes move from one section to the next through conveyors. To ensure proper packing, an electro-pneumatic system is used to divert containers or packages that are not properly filled.

What are the Benefits of Formal Training?

• Enhanced Safety: Once your workers become used to their work they might stop paying attention to detail. Over times the caution they once had is gradually replaced by laxity. This makes the workers a danger to themselves and those around them. Periodic training helps remind your workers of the dangers that lurk within the workplace.

• Higher Productivity: Well trained workers are equipped to operate various machines without asking questions every now and then. The quality of the output is also better. Trained workers use machines correctly lengthening their lifespan and reducing downtime. In case of break downs, they can quickly repair the damaged part and resume operation.

• Reduced Staff Turnover: Investing in training your workers shows that you value them and their growth. This fosters a sense of loyalty to the company and keeps your workforce motivated. You are less likely to lose your workers if they are happy. Training your workers also eliminates the need to hire specialists on a short term or on permanent contracts.

• Expand Workers Knowledge: Technology can change almost overnight. Without re-training, your employees become unequipped to deal with the latest technology. For instance, Fieldbus network valve manifolds have made it possible to monitor electro pneumatics systems over Ethernet networks. If not re-trained they may not take advantage of this and other new developments.

Invest in Your Workers Today!

As the demand for automated systems continues to rise, knowledge in electro-mechanical areas such as electro pneumatics will be key. Hiring an electro-pneumatic technician who is already trained is not cheap. But training your current workers and giving them the chance to prove themselves in the classroom and on the job could be an even better move.

Are Your Workers Ready for Formal Training?

Make the smart decision today and schedule a 3-Day Hands-on training program in Pneumatics and Electro-pneumatic systems. All training programs offered by NTT Inc are conducted by experienced instructors. Each training program is ACCET-accredited and tailored to meet your specific goals. Don’t hesitate, connect with NTT today!