Unlocking Efficiency in Pneumatic Systems

SMB Bearings provide energy savings for unique robotic application demands

As industries adopt more automation, the demand for reliable and efficient pneumatic systems, which power everything from robotic arms to air-powered tools, continues to rise. However, despite their widespread use, these systems often suffer from hidden inefficiencies. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings—Oxfordshire, U.K.) explores how an overlooked component, industrial bearings, can improve the efficiency of pneumatic technologies.

SMB Bearings originally concentrated on miniature bearings, thin-section bearings and stainless-steel bearings. In response to customer demand, the company expanded the range to include other corrosion resistant bearings such as plastic bearings, 316 stainless bearings and ceramic bearings.

Bearings are essential components in pneumatic systems, responsible for reducing friction between moving parts and ensuring smooth operation. Over time, however, bearings can degrade, leading to increased resistance, higher energy consumption and ultimately, system inefficiency.

In pneumatic applications, even slight increases in friction can result in significant energy losses. For instance, air turbines and expanders used in compressed air energy storage systems rely on bearings to maintain smooth operation. If these bearings become worn or inefficient, the performance of the entire system can suffer.

As industries increasingly rely on automated systems, the demands on pneumatic equipment are becoming more stringent. Bearings that were once considered secondary components are now critical to ensuring efficiency, longevity and cost-effectiveness. Yet, too many companies continue to use bearings that are not suited to pneumatic systems.