Technology | Pneumatic tube systems | PMG Engineering

Pneumatic tube systems

Pneumatic tube systems, also known as pneumatic transport systems or air tube systems, are a method of transporting small packages, documents, or samples through a network of tubes using compressed air or vacuum pressure. The system consists of a series of tubes, usually made of plastic or metal, which are interconnected and can be routed throughout a building or campus. At each end of the tube system, some stations can send and receive the packages. A sender places the package in a special container and inputs the destination, which is then transported through the tube to the recipient's station. The recipient receives a notification that a package has arrived and retrieves it from a delivery drawer. Pneumatic tube systems are often used in hospitals to quickly and securely transport medication, lab samples, or documents between departments. They are also used in banks, post offices, and other facilities where fast and secure transport of small items is needed. Pneumatic tube systems work on the principle of air pressure difference between two ends of a tube. The system consists of a network of tubes, a series of blowers or pumps, and a control station. When an item needs to be transported, it is placed into a container and inserted into one end of the tube. The container is then propelled through the tube by a stream of compressed air or a vacuum created by the blowers or pumps. The container travels through the tube to the destination station where it is retrieved by the operator. The system works on a closed-loop design, where the containers are emptied and returned to the starting station to be reused. The control station is used to monitor and manage the flow of items, as well as to control the air pressure within the system. The major components in pneumatic tube systems are: 1. Sender station: The sender station is the place where the items are placed to be sent through the tube system. It has a loading chute and a control panel to initiate the sending process. 2. Carrier: The carrier is the capsule or container that carries the items through the tube system. It is propelled by compressed air. 3. Tube network: The tube network consists of a series of interconnected tubes that form a closed loop. The tubes are made of materials such as plastic or metal and can be straight or curved. 4. Receiver station: The receiver station is the place where the carrier is received. It has a control panel to initiate the receiving process and a collection area for the items. 5. Compressed air supply: The compressed air supply provides the energy to propel the carrier through the tube system. 6. Control system: The control system regulates the movement of the carrier through the tube system. It consists of sensors, timers, and control panels. 7. Maintenance and support equipment: Maintenance and support equipment such as cleaning brushes and spare parts are necessary to ensure the smooth operation of the pneumatic tube system. The key manufacturers of Pneumatic tube systems are as follows: 1. Aerocom, 2. Swisslog, 3. Quirepace, 4. Kelly Systems, 5. Pevco, and 6. Colombo Pneumatic Tube Systems.

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