What does proper maintenance of a pneumatic system primarily help to prevent?

Proper maintenance of a pneumatic system is crucial primarily to prevent unpredictable operational failures. Regular maintenance ensures that all components of the system, such as compressors, valves, actuators, and hoses, are functioning optimally. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring filters are clean, and verifying that pressure levels are within specified ranges.

When maintenance is consistent, it minimizes the risk of sudden breakdowns or malfunctions that could occur unexpectedly during operation. Such failures not only lead to downtime but can also compromise safety and result in costly repairs. By maintaining the system proactively, operators can anticipate potential issues and address them before they escalate into major problems, thereby ensuring reliable performance and efficiency in the pneumatic processes.