Pneumatics Fault Finding
Pneumatics Fault Finding: All You Need To Know
All machines and equipment are exposed to various periods where they may break down.
In a pneumatic system it is most likely that one will not be able to notice the fault immediately but rather after the results of the performance has changed.
For this reason it is important to consider the various factors that are very important in pneumatics.
It is first important to troubleshoot the system so that you will be in a better position to find whats wrong.
While initiating the troubleshoot it is also important to note that every pneumatic system has a logical circuit which enables it to function appropriately.
Some problems begins once the circuit is not fully completed and at this instance you know that your system has a problem.
Consider the following steps whilst trying to find a fault.
1. Safety.
Ensure that you place your safety as a number one priority before you begin. This is because pneumatic systems contain compressed air and in the case that your system is faulty and it ends up rupturing the pipes, you are likely to experience very severe injuries if you were not well protected while this happens.
2. Three W’s.
Take time and do not rush into various conclusions as this may even lead to greater problems. It is thus important that you ask yourself three crucial questions before you start.
What?
Consider what might be going wrong in the system. Possibilities like what might have caused the fault and what areas might have been affected.
When?
It is also important that you note on when the problem started. This is because with a prolonged period of the same problem, the situation tends to be more critical therefore you have to approach the same in a keen extent.
Where?
Consider the pneumatic circuit and try to establish where the circuit might have been disrupted, by doing this you will be able to know the specific area to tackle in the case of a fault
By taking into consideration the three questions above you will then be able to narrow down to the specifics of the fault in your pneumatic system therefore know what might be the actually cause of the problem so that you can fix it.
3. Visual inspection.
It is also important that you take a walk around the system ensuring that everything is in order. If you are keen enough then you are likely to establish the problem during the inspection. However, some of the problems are very minimal therefore you may fail to note them.
4. Operating the machine.
Try operating the machine and try to listen to any unwanted noises vibration and even movements that are contrary to normal. On most occasions a pneumatic system that is faulty will produce some unwanted noises and even movements that were not there before.
5. Repair and replace.
Once you have completed the pneumatics fault finding, you can create a list of all the faults that you have noticed. Thereafter try to replace or repair the same. If the problem is too big for you consider the input of a professional.
