Outline the operation of a single acting pneumatic cylinder. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question v - 2018

A single acting pneumatic cylinder operates by utilizing compressed air to move the piston. The casing contains a spring that assists in the return of the piston when the pressure is released.

1. Compressed Air Application: When compressed air is directed into the cylinder, it exerts force on one side of the piston, causing it to extend and perform mechanical work.

2. Piston Movement: The movement of the piston pushes the attached rod, which may be connected to various load applications in machinery.

3. Release of Compressed Air: Once the operation is complete and the compressed air is turned off, the compressed air inside the cylinder depletes.

4. Return Mechanism: As the air pressure is removed, the inherent tension in the spring will retract the piston back to its initial position. This mechanism is what makes the cylinder 'single acting', as it only uses air pressure to move in one direction, relying on a spring for the return.