What is the main characteristic of pneumatic systems compared to hydraulic systems?

Pneumatic systems are characterized by the use of compressed air rather than liquid fluids, making them less messy than hydraulic systems, which rely on liquids like oil or water for operation. This key attribute of pneumatic systems means that, in case of a leak or failure, there is significantly less risk of fluid spills and the associated cleanup effort that is necessary with hydraulic systems. The air used in pneumatics dissipates quickly into the environment, further minimizing the cleanliness concerns that can arise with hydraulic fluids, which can pose environmental and safety hazards.

The distinction between pneumatic and hydraulic systems lies primarily in their operational media—air for pneumatics and liquid for hydraulics. This difference not only affects maintenance and operational characteristics but also makes pneumatic systems more suitable in situations where cleanliness and reduced environmental impact are priorities.