Pneumatic Actuators
Solutions for linear and rotary motion in industrial applications
Fluid System supplies pneumatic actuators from SMC and Camozzi Automation for building reliable, flexible and readily integrated industrial automation systems. The offering includes solutions for linear and rotary motion, positioning, clamping and load handling, with wide availability of ISO-compliant actuators and special solutions for specific industrial applications.
With extensive experience in the distribution of industrial components and specialised technical support, Fluid System assists machine builders, system integrators and maintenance teams in identifying the most suitable pneumatic actuators, evaluating force, stroke, speed, cycle rate and operating conditions, to ensure operational reliability and continuity of operation.
Types of Pneumatic Actuators
LINEAR ACTUATORS
Linear motion for pushing, pulling and positioning operations.
Pneumatic linear actuators are used to produce controlled movement along an axis, with single- or double-acting configurations. They are available in standardised, compact, guided, rodless or special versions to meet different application and footprint requirements.
GUIDED ACTUATORS
Motion precision and stability under load.
Guided actuators integrate linear guide systems that ensure high positioning accuracy and greater resistance to lateral loads and torsional moments. They are suitable for assembly, precise handling and controlled manipulation applications.
ROTARY ACTUATORS
Controlled angular movement for orientation and rotation.
Pneumatic rotary actuators generate precise, repeatable angular movements, typically using rack-and-pinion or vane systems. They are used for rotating, orienting and positioning components within automated machines and industrial systems, with compact solutions that are easy to integrate.
RODLESS CYLINDERS
Linear motion with compact footprint.
Rodless pneumatic cylinders enable long strokes while maintaining compact dimensions, thanks to the direct connection between piston and carriage. They are particularly suitable for applications with limited space and for long-distance handling.
SPECIAL AND FUNCTIONAL ACTUATORS
Solutions for specific applications.
This category includes actuators designed for particular requirements, such as cylinders with integrated locking, stainless steel cylinders for aggressive environments, microcylinders, heavy-duty actuators and solutions with advanced safety or precision functions. This category also includes functional accessories such as position sensors, locking systems, brakes and deceleration devices, used to improve safety, precision and motion control in pneumatic systems. The most common solutions include cylinders with locking, stainless steel versions, microcylinders and actuators for demanding applications.
Comparison of the main types
of Pneumatic Actuators
| Category | Main function | Typical applications | Operational benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linear actuators | Controlled linear motion | Automated machines / production lines | Simplicity / reliability / high modularity |
| Guided actuators | Precise positioning under load | Assembly / guided handling | Stability / precision / load resistance |
| Rotary actuators | Angular motion | Orientation / component rotation | Compactness / repeatable movement |
| Rodless cylinders | Long strokes with compact footprint | Compact linear transfers | Space optimisation |
| Special actuators | Dedicated functions | Demanding or specific applications | Targeted and integrated solutions |
Quando e cosa scegliere
Choose pneumatic actuators if…
- Repeatable and reliable cycles are required in industrial environments.
- High speed and straightforward integration are required.
- The application benefits from a robust solution with straightforward maintenance.
Choose guided actuators if…
- Lateral loads or torsional moments are present.
- Long-term positioning accuracy is required.
Choose rotary actuators if…
- Controlled angular movement is required.
- Repeatable rotations are needed for orientation or positioning.
- The application requires compactness and integration on automated machines.
Choose rodless cylinders if…
- Installation space is limited.
- Long strokes are required with a compact footprint.
- Long-distance handling is required with a compact footprint.
Esplora le soluzioni disponibili
Fluid System supplies pneumatic actuators from leading international manufacturers, selected for operational reliability, integration into automation systems and operational continuity. Access the solution of interest to explore technical features, available types and application benefits.
Request technical consultancy
Every automation application has specific requirements. Contact Fluid System for support in identifying the most suitable pneumatic actuators based on loads, motion dynamics, duty cycle and integration into the system.
FAQ — Pneumatic actuators
Single-acting actuators use compressed air in one direction and a spring for the return stroke. Double-acting actuators use air in both directions, providing greater movement control and constant force.
A guided actuator is suitable when lateral loads or torsional moments are present, or when greater positioning accuracy is required along the stroke.
Rodless cylinders are used when long strokes are required and installation space is limited, while maintaining compactness and continuous movement.
Yes. Pneumatic actuators are particularly suitable for high-cycle applications thanks to their simple construction, reliability and ease of maintenance.
Pneumatic actuators are easy to integrate into existing systems and are particularly suitable for retrofit and revamping work on machines and industrial systems.
