Fluid power systems can be either hydraulic systems or pneumatic systems. Hydraulic systems transmit and control power by means of a liquid. Pneumatic systems use a gas. Hydraulic and pneumatic systems play an important part in many areas of technology, including manufacturing, construction, transportation, agriculture, health care, and entertainment.
Hydraulic systems are very useful for heavy lifting and digging. Cranes, backhoes, and dump trucks all use hydraulics. Braking systems on cars and buses also make use of hydraulic technology.
Although pneumatic systems are not as powerful as hydraulic systems, they provide power to automatic nailers, jackhammers, and assembly lines. They also play an important part in automobile airbags and hovercraft.
Hydraulic power is favored for some applications; pneumatic power is favored for others. Find out more about them during this WebQuest.
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For this WebQuest, your job is to investigate applications for fluid power systems. To demonstrate what you have learned, you will answer the questions included here. You will also complete one of the activities described at the end of this WebQuest.
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Read through the following questions. Then research the Internet resources that are provided for you. As you explore the sites, look for answers to the questions. Keep a record of any sites where you find answers by noting the title and URL (Internet address). For example:
(title) Technology Student Association
(URL) www.tsaweb.org
- During what decade was hydraulic power first used for farming?
- How many tons can a 40-ton hydraulic crane lift?
- Why does an air bubble in a hydraulic system reduce the system’s efficiency?
- What are the names of the hydraulic tools used in the Jaws of Life?
- How many hydraulic cylinders are used to move the Animatronic Spinosaurus?
- Which type of power is used to lift cars at auto service centers, hydraulic or pneumatic?
- In what part of a pneumatic nailer is air from the compressor stored.
- To what part of the user’s body do most pneumatic-nailer injuries occur?
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Visit the Web sites listed here to find information that will enable you to answer the questions. You may use additional sites if you wish. Be sure to keep a record of any sites you use.
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Several activities are described below. Complete one of these activities (your choice) to demonstrate the understandings you’ve gained by going on this WebQuest.
- Read the following online article then write a short report about it. Include in your report the reason why the students used distilled water in their system.
“Water-hydraulic vehicle built by Purdue students” is an article about an experimental vehicle built by a technology class. http://news.uns.purdue.edu/UNS/html4ever/010919.Krutz.mower.html
- People with disabilities may have trouble getting up from a chair. Design a fluid-powered chair that will help them stand up. Make a finished drawing or model of your invention and label the parts. Include a paragraph explaining how it works.
- Research pneumatic nailers to find out how they should be maintained. Is any special care required? Report your findings to the class.
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