why do we use pneumatic?
Compressed air is widely used in the manufacturing facilities, and it’s also known as the fourth utility, after natural gas, electricity and water. Comparatively to electricity, compressed air is slightly more expensive. But why is it that it’s widely used to initiate factory automation systems?
One of the reasons is the maintenance cost and lower upfront. Using pneumatic is also very cost-effective, reliable and simple to use.
The table below shows the advantages and differences between pneumatic, electric and hydraulic.
Characteristics | Pneumatic | Hydraulic | Electric |
Complexity | Simple | Medium | Medium/High |
Peak power | High | Very high | High |
Size | Low size / force | Very low size / force | Medium size / force |
Position accuracy | Good | Good | Better |
Control | Simple valves | Simple valves | Electronic controller |
Speed | Fast | Slow | Fast |
Purchase cost | Low | High | High |
Operating cost | Medium | High | Low |
Maintenance cost | Low | High | Low |
Utilities | Compressor | Pump/power | Power only |
Efficiency | Low | Low | High |
Reliability | Excellent | Good | Good |
Maintenance | Low | Medium |
Medium |
Do you require pneumatic products for your production line or factory?
EC Pneumatic & Hardware has over 16+ years’ experience in the industry, enabling us to source the right mechanisms for your pneumatic components in Malaysia based on respective requirements. As a primer pneumatic component supplier in Malaysia, our products are of first-class quality & performance, which makes it easy to fit in your desired workflow. We also carry a collection of leading brands and manufacturers in the industry such as SWISH, CKD, Parker, SMC, ASCO, JISAN and heaps more. Check out our offerings of pneumatic products.
If you’re interested in working with EC Pneumatic & Hardware, contact us today.
To place an order or request for a quote, do contact us & our team of experts will get back to you with their professional advice.
Lastly, don’t forget to share this post!

related articles & products
Selecting the right pneumatic component or material to suit any pneumatic application is important to ensure a long service life. Read the articles below to know more about it’s specification & features.
Pneumatic Fittings
Learn more on types of Pneumatic Fittings & how it’s used in pneumatic system
Actuator
The configuration of actuator uses the air/liquid as energy to open and close the valve.
Solenoid Valve
What are the main parameters to consider when selecting a valve?
Air Source Treatment
Great air source solutions for higher pressure fields
Silencer
Learn the specifications of Silencer and how it’s used in the industry
Coupler
What are the features of a coupler and how is it used in pneumatic systems?
explore more topics
Ready to learn something new? We’ve got more to read here.
Contact us:
+604 380 1277 / 78
WhatsApp us: +6012 528 2779
No. 2749, G-Floor, Jalan Chain Ferry, Taman Inderawasih,
13600, Perai, Pulau Pinang.