Pneumatic Actuators

Oil & gas, Petrochemical - water and waste treatment, manufacturing, and other industries

Automation – operate remotely at the press of a button
Pneumatic supply – common on sites
Cost-effective compared to other actuator types
Can Fail close with a spring

AC Valve Alliance have a close partnership with Air Torque Italy means that we are well established in the pneumatic actuation market with a large stock holding of aluminium and stainless-steel rack and pinion actuators together with a comprehensive range of carbon steel, heavy duty scotch yoke actuators. To complement our stock of actuators we have a large selection of aluminium and stainless local controls and accessories.

Pneumatic actuators convert the energy from compressed air or gas into mechanical motion. They use the force generated by the compressed air to move pistons or diaphragms, which in turn produce linear or rotary motion. Pneumatic actuators consist of several components, including a cylinder, piston, diaphragm, valves, and control systems. The cylinder houses the piston or diaphragm, which converts the pressure of the compressed air. Valves control the airflow and direction, enabling precise control over the actuator’s motion.


Torque Range	AT045U – AT1001U (3 Nm > 2,000 Nm) or stainless steel AT054 – AT654 (6Nm > 2,000Nm)
Materials	Anodised Alodur Aluminium, PTFE coated Aluminium or Stainless steel construction
Type	Spring Return & Double Acting 90° + 120° +180° Rotation 180° Fail-Mid Position


Torque Range	AT-HD065 – AT-HD160 (600Nm > 39,000Nm)
Materials	Heavy Duty Carbon Steel
Type	Spring Return & Double Acting

Pneumatic actuators offer several advantages. They provide fast and powerful movement, making them suitable for applications that require quick response times. Pneumatic systems are also relatively simple, reliable, and cost-effective compared to other actuator types. They are resistant to harsh environments, such as high temperatures and corrosive atmospheres.

How Do Pneumatic Actuators Work?

Pneumatic actuators work by utilising the force generated from compressed air or gas.

Compressed air or gas is supplied to one side of the actuator, creating pressure inside the actuator.
The pressure pushes the piston or diaphragm, generating mechanical force.
This force is then used to produce linear or rotary motion, depending on the type of pneumatic actuator.
Valves control the airflow into and out of the actuator, enabling precise control over the motion and allowing for different operating modes.

What Are The Three Types Of Pneumatic Actuators?

Single-acting pneumatic actuators: These actuators use air pressure to generate force in one direction only. They have a spring or other mechanism to return the actuator to its initial position when the air pressure is released.

Double-acting pneumatic actuators: These actuators use air pressure to generate force in both directions. They have air supply ports on both sides of the actuator, allowing for controlled motion in both extending and retracting directions.

Rotary pneumatic actuators: These actuators convert the linear motion of the piston into rotary motion. They are used for applications that require rotational movement, such as valve control or turning devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do rack and pinion actuators work?

When the pinion rotates, its teeth engage with the rack, causing the rack to move linearly. The direction of linear motion depends on the direction of rotation of the pinion. By controlling the rotation of the pinion, you can precisely control the position and speed of the linear motion of the rack.

What is the difference between rack and pinion actuator and scotch yoke actuator?

A rack and pinion actuator converts rotary motion into linear motion using a toothed rack and a pinion gear. A scotch yoke actuator, on the other hand, converts rotary motion into linear motion using a sliding yoke that moves back and forth within a track.

How does a rack and pinion actuator generate torque?

The torque in a rack and pinion actuator is generated by the moment arm between the center of rotation of the pinion and the point of engagement with the rack. The force applied by the pinion's teeth onto the rack creates a torque that results in linear motion.