Chapter 3

Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Table of Contents
Symbols and description of components .............................................................................. 3-2
 Supply and service equipment........................................................................................... 3-2
 Directional control valve .................................................................................................... 3-4
 Methods of actuation of pneumatic directional control valves ....................................... 3-5
 Pressure control valves ...................................................................................................... 3-6
 Actuators ............................................................................................................................ 3-7

Reference ............................................................................................................................... 1-

Table of Figure
Figure 1: Service Equipment ______________________________________________________________________ 3-2
Figure 2: Combined symbol _______________________________________________________________________ 3-2
Figure 3: Symbols and descriptions_________________________________________________________________ 3-3
Figure 4: Directional control valve symbols __________________________________________________________ 3-4
Figure 5: Numbering system ______________________________________________________________________ 3-4
Figure 6: Methods of actuation ___________________________________________________________________ 3-5
Figure 7: Pressure control valves __________________________________________________________________ 3-6
Figure 8: Actuators _____________________________________________________________________________ 3-7
Figure 9: Rotary actuators _______________________________________________________________________ 3-7
Figure 10: Exhaust and other fittings_______________________________________________________________ 3-7

What you will cover

Module 1: Pneumatics: Introduction
Symbols and description of components

Learning Outcome
At the end of this module participants will be able to:
Understand symbols and description of pneumatic components
Identify symbols of pneumatic components

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Symbols and description of components.

The development of pneumatic systems is assisted by a uniform approach to the representation

of the elements and the circuits. The symbols used for the individual elements must display the
following characteristics:

 Actuation and return actuation methods

 Number of connections (all labelled for identification)
 Number of switching positions
 General operating principle
 Simplified representation of the flow path

The technical construction of the component is not taken into account in the abstract symbol
form. The symbols used in pneumatics are detailed in the standard DIN ISO 1219, "Circuit
symbols for fluidic equipment and systems".

The symbols for the energy supply system can be represented as individual elements or as
combined elements. If a standard and common air generation supply is used for all components,
then the simplified symbols can be used

Supply

Figure 1: Service Equipment

Figure 2: Combined symbol

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Figure 3: Symbols and descriptions

Directional control valve

The directional control valve is represented by the number of controlled connections, the number
of positions and the flow path. In order to avoid faulty connections, all the inputs and outputs of
a valve are identified.

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Figure 4: Directional control valve symbols

A numbering system is used to designate directional control valves and is in accordance with DIN
ISO 5599-3. Prior to this a lettering system was utilised and both systems of designation are
presented here

Example of designation

Figure 5: Numbering system

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Methods of actuation of pneumatic directional control valves

The methods of actuation of pneumatic directional control valves is de-pendent upon the
requirements of the task. The types of actuation vary, example:

 manually actuated
 mechanically actuated
 pneumatically actuated
 electrical and
 combined actuation.

Manual actuation

Mechanical actuation

Pneumatic actuation

Electrical actuation

Combined actuation

Figure 6: Methods of actuation

The symbols for the methods of actuation are detailed in DIN ISO 1219. When applied to a
directional control valve, consideration must be given to the method of initial actuation of the

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

valve and also the method of return actuation. Normally these are two separate methods. They
are both shown on the symbol either side of the position boxes. There may also be additional
methods of actuation such as manual overrides, which are separately indicated.

Pressure valves
The function of pressure valves, is to influence the pressure in an overall pneumatic system or in
a part of the system. Pressure regulating valves are generally adjustable against spring
compression. The symbols are distinguished according to the following types:
 Pressure regulating valve without relief port
 Pressure regulating valve with relief port
 Pressure sequence valves

Figure 7: Pressure control valves

Linear actuators
The linear actuators or cylinders are described by their type of construction and method of
operation. The single-acting cylinder, the double-acting cylinder and the rodless cylinder form the
basis for design variations. The use of cushioning to reduce loads on the end caps and mountings
during deceleration of the piston is important for long-life and smooth operation. The cushioning
piston is shown on the exhaust air side of the piston. The arrow indicates adjustable cushioning
and not the direction of cushioned motion.

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 Module 3: Symbols and description of components

Figure 8: Actuators

Rotary actuators

Rotary actuators are divided into continuous motion and limited angle of rotation.

The air motor is normally a high speed device with either fixed or adjust-able speed control. Units
with limited angle of rotation are fixed or adjustable in angular displacement. The rotary actuator
may be cushioned depending upon the load and speed of operation

Figure 9: Rotary actuators

Auxiliary symbols
There are a number of important symbols for accessories which are utilised in conjunction with
pneumatics

Figure 10: Exhaust and other fittings

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