How does a pneumatic control system operate?

A pneumatic control system operates by using compressed air to control devices, making it an effective means of transmitting power and signals throughout various automation systems. In this type of system, air is compressed and stored in a tank, and this compressed air is then directed through pipes to actuators or control devices.

These actuators can include valves, cylinders, and other mechanisms that convert the energy from the compressed air into mechanical motion. This conversion allows for the operation of machinery or systems with high precision and speed while maintaining a lightweight and efficient design. Pneumatic systems are particularly valued for their rapid response times and ease of maintenance, as they often involve fewer moving parts compared to hydraulic or electric systems.

The other options do not accurately describe the operation of a pneumatic control system. Digital signals pertain to electronic control systems rather than pneumatic functionality, hydraulic systems rely on liquid fluids instead of air, and mechanical linkages lack the efficiency and flexibility that comes with pneumatic control. Thus, using compressed air is the defining feature of pneumatic control systems.