Air systems and pneumatic consist primarily of compressors, driers and cylinders.

Compressors: The compressor supplies the compressed air for the pneumatic system. Most air compressors are either reciprocating piston type or rotary vane or rotary screw.  Positive-displacement air compressors work by forcing air into a chamber whose volume is reduced to effect the compression.  Piston-type air compressors pump air into an air chamber through the use of the constant motion of pistons. They use unidirectional valves to guide air into a chamber, where the air is compressed.  Rotary screw compressors match two helical screws that, when turned, guide air into a chamber, the volume of which is reduced as the screws turn.  Vane compressors use a slotted rotor with varied blade placement to guide air into a chamber and compress the volume.

Air Driers: A compressed air dryer is used for removing water vapour from compressed air.  The process of air compression concentrates water vapour. This leads to condensation within pipes as the compressed air cools downstream of the compressor.  Excessive water in compressed air, either in the liquid or vapour, can cause problems such as freezing of outdoor air lines and corrosion of equipment.  There are various types of compressed air dryers. The most common type of air dryer is the desiccant dryer.

Pneumatic Cylinders: Also known as air cylinders.  These are mechanical devices consisting of a barrel, rod and piston which produce force in combination with movement, and are powered by compressed air.  This compressed air forces the piston to move in the desired direction. The piston is a disc connected to a piston rod, and the piston rod moves the object it is connected to.