What method is used to size pneumatic components?

The sizing of pneumatic components is primarily based on free air flow rates, which measures the volume of air that a component can transmit at a specific pressure and temperature. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the components can effectively move air to achieve the desired performance in a pneumatic system.

Understanding free air flow rates allows engineers to select components that can handle the required flow to operate efficiently under varying load conditions. It accounts for the dynamic aspects of a pneumatic system, such as pressure drops and the size of piping and other components in the system.

While other factors like rod diameters, cylinder volumes, and pressure considerations are part of the overall design, they do not directly address the flow capacity necessary for efficient pneumatic operation. Thus, focusing on free air flow rates provides a comprehensive approach to ensuring that the selected components meet the operational requirements of the system.