Pneumatic System Solutions and Services

Whether you need standard pneumatic components, custom pneumatic products, or engineering expertise for more complex industrial pneumatic systems, we take the time to understand your application and recommend components and systems that best fit your requirements. Some of the areas we optimize include:

  • Pneumatic Actuators, Controls & Cylinders
  • Directional Control Valves, Pneumatic Fittings & Flow Controls
  • Pneumatic Grippers, Instrumentation, Pneumatic Limit Switches & Operators
  • Pneumatic Slide/Rotary Tables, Solenoid Valves, Tubing, Valve Manifolds & Pneumatic Valves
  • Compressed Air Equipment & Complete Systems
  • Custom Solutions
  • System Auditing 

JHF can design and provide complete pneumatic solutions for your needs, starting with air compressors and cleanup equipment to point-of-use cylinders, sensors, and I/O. Our expertise, comprehensive product range, technical support, customization capabilities, and commitment to our customers make us the trusted partner for any pneumatic systems or service needs.

Call our pneumatic solutions experts at (800) 444-0522 today to discuss how John Henry Foster can provide pneumatic services to help you optimize your line to its fullest potential.

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Pneumatic Solutions We Offer

Custom Assemblies & Kitting

Pneumatic assemblies from John Henry Foster can be customized to meet any specific application requirements. We can incorporate additional quality components, such as pressure gauges, check valves, or specialized connectors.

Our experts will work with you to ensure the necessary functionality, precise integration, and maximum performance of your custom pneumatic assemblies. Assemblies and kits including value-added sub-assemblies, testing, presetting components, prebuilt enclosed circuits, custom cylinders, and more–all from John Henry Foster.

System Design & Installation

From small pneumatic assemblies to complex, compressed air systems, our specialists will work with you step by step to identify requirements, select quality components, finalize system layout and configuration, integrate appropriate controls, and ensure the safety and performance optimization of your unique assembly or system.

From air logic design and component sizing to design consultations, we will help you with your pneumatic system design and installation.

Controls Integration

Whether using discrete wiring, Fieldbus communication, or IO-Link for your equipment, we have the expertise to help you design the ideal control configuration for your needs.

 

Compressed Air Equipment

Your system demands efficiency, so we carry all the air compressors, dryers, tanks, and air treatment your system needs for peak performance. And when you need more than parts and components, our air experts are here to help you design the most efficient system to fit your application's demands.

Compressed Air Audits

Compressed air system efficiency improvements will decrease costs and energy usage while improving productivity and your bottom line. Determine the cost of compressed air for your facility.

Improving your compressed air system efficiency requires compressed air knowledge, an understanding of your unique system, and your goals. Our compressed air experts will work with you to align your needs with our capabilities, ensuring actual results.

Pneumatic Hose Kits & Assemblies

JHF offers a wide variety of pneumatic hoses, from small 1/4” hoses to large bore and high-pressure applications. We also offer pneumatic tubing from 1/8” to ¾”, including exotic tubing designed to withstand high pressures, gases, and extreme temperatures. We stock a variety of connections, including compression fittings, push-to-connect fittings, and barb fittings, to complete your assembly.

 

Pneumatic Tools

When an application calls for powerful, durable, and efficient pneumatic tools, you can call on John Henry Foster. We offer a variety of air tools, including impact wrenches, drills, nail guns, grinders, sanders, riveters, and more, from trusted industry brands like Ingersoll Rand, Sioux Tools, Makita, Enerpac, and Dynabrade.

 

Common Pneumatic Systems Components in a Pneumatic Assembly

A pneumatic assembly typically includes several key components that work together to create a functional pneumatic system. Here are some of the common components you'll find in a pneumatic assembly:

  • Compressor:
    The compressor is responsible for compressing the ambient air and generating the compressed air required for the system.

  • Air receiver:
    The air receiver, or storage tank, holds the compressed air, providing a reservoir for storing and regulating the pressure of the air.

  • Filters:
    Pneumatic air filters are used to remove contaminants, such as dust, oil, and moisture, from the compressed air and improve the flow of air. They help ensure clean and dry air for optimal system performance and prevent damage to downstream components.

  • Regulator:
    A pressure regulator is used to control and adjust the pressure of the compressed air flowing through the system. It maintains a consistent pressure level required for the proper operation of pneumatic devices.

  • Valves:
    Valves are used to control the flow of compressed air within the system. They can start, stop, or redirect the airflow as needed. Common types of valves used in pneumatic assemblies include directional control valves, shut-off valves, check valves, and pressure relief valves.

  • Actuators:
    Actuators are devices that convert the energy of compressed air into mechanical motion. Pneumatic cylinders and pneumatic motors are commonly used actuators in pneumatic assemblies. They provide linear or rotary motion to perform tasks such as pushing, pulling, lifting, rotating, and gripping.

  • Tubing and fittings:
    Tubing and fittings are used to transport the compressed air from the air receiver to various components in the system. They provide a sealed pathway for airflow and are typically made of materials like plastic or metal. Fittings are used to connect and secure the tubing to the different components.

  • Control devices:
    Control devices, such as pressure switches, flow control valves, and sensors, are used to monitor and control the operation of the pneumatic system. They provide feedback and enable automation by sending signals to actuate valves or adjust system parameters.

  • Accessories:
    Pneumatic assemblies may include additional accessories depending on the specific application. These can include lubricators to provide a fine mist of oil for lubrication, pressure gauges to monitor system pressure, and silencers to reduce the noise produced by the exhaust air.


These are some of the key components you will find in a pneumatic assembly. The specific components that are used, and their arrangement, depend on the requirements of the system and the tasks it needs to perform.

Advantages of Pneumatics

Pneumatic systems offer several advantages, including simplicity, cost-effectiveness, reliability, and the ability to operate in harsh environments. They are particularly suitable for applications that require fast and repetitive motion, as well as environments where electrical systems may pose safety risks, such as in explosive or flammable atmospheres.

 

Pneumatic Components and Assemblies Applications

Pneumatic systems, components, and assemblies are used in various industries and sectors due to their simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Here are some common applications where you might find pneumatic systems:

  • Manufacturing and Assembly: Pneumatic systems are extensively used in manufacturing and assembly processes. They power automated machines and robots to perform material handling, pick and place operations, packaging, sorting, and assembly line operations.
  • Automotive Industry: They are used in braking systems, suspension systems, pneumatic tools, tire inflation, and engine control systems.
  • Food and Beverage Processing: These systems are suitable for food and beverage processing environments because they do not contaminate the products. They are used in filling, packaging, labeling, sorting, and pneumatic conveying of bulk materials.
  • Packaging and Material Handling: Used in packaging machines for tasks like sealing, labeling, and forming packages. They are also used in material handling equipment such as conveyors, lifts, and manipulators for moving products and components.
  • Medical and Healthcare: Utilized in medical and healthcare applications due to their cleanliness and precision. They are used in devices such as dental chairs, surgical tools, prosthetics, breathing apparatus, and laboratory equipment.
  • Construction and Building Automation: Employed in construction for tasks such as operating heavy machinery like jackhammers and pneumatic nail guns. In building automation, they control HVAC systems, ventilation, and fire safety systems.
  • Mining and Extraction: Used in the mining industry for tasks like rock drilling, material handling, ventilation, and control of underground equipment.
  • Agriculture: They can be used for planting, seeding, fertilizing, harvesting, and irrigation control.
  • Aerospace and Aviation: Pneumatic systems are utilized in aircraft for various functions, including landing gear operation, flight control systems, cabin pressurization, and engine starting.
  • Entertainment and Amusement: Used in amusement park rides, theatrical props, and special effects equipment to create motion, pneumatic cylinders to simulate movements, and pneumatic actuators for animatronics.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of applications where pneumatic components, assemblies, and systems are utilized. Their versatility and suitability for various industries make them a popular choice for many automation and mechanical tasks.

 

Why Choose John Henry Foster for Pneumatic Solutions

Since 1944, John Henry Foster has been the Midwest’s trusted pneumatic partner. Our trained and certified experts work with you to select and provide quality pneumatic power and components, custom kits and assemblies, and services including consulting, system integration, testing, and maintenance and repair to keep your operations moving.

  • Expertise and Experience:
    With over 80 years of experience in the industry, John Henry Foster has established itself as a trusted and knowledgeable provider of pneumatic solutions. Our experts understand the intricacies of pneumatic systems and will offer expert advice and guidance to our customers.

  • Wide Range of Products:
    John Henry Foster offers a comprehensive range of pneumatic equipment from leading manufacturers such as Festo, Foster, and IMI Norgren/Bimba. Whether you need pneumatic tools, compressors, actuators, valves, or other components, we have a diverse product portfolio to meet various needs.

  • Customized Solutions:
    We understand that different applications have unique requirements. Our experts work closely with you to provide customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. This includes designing and implementing pneumatic systems that maximize efficiency and productivity.

  • Quality and Reliability:
    John Henry Foster partners with reputable manufacturers who produce high-quality pneumatic products. These partnerships and our commitment to quality help us ensure minimal downtime and ensure we are optimizing your operations.

  • Technical Support and Service:
    JHF provides excellent technical support. Our team of professionals can assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of pneumatic systems. Additionally, we offer training programs to educate our customers on the proper use and maintenance of pneumatic tools and equipment.

  • Strong Customer Focus:
    At John Henry Foster, we prioritize customer satisfaction. We strive to build long-term relationships by delivering quality products, exceptional service, timely deliveries, and total satisfaction. We have a customer-centric approach that puts your needs first.

 

 

What Industries Do We Offer Our Services To?

  • General Manufacturing
  • Material Handling
  • Automation
  • Packaging Machinery
  • Robotics
  • Automotive & Aerospace
  • Medical Devices