Compressed air is used at many stages of vehicle manufacturing, from welding and painting to tyre production and seat upholstery. It is extensively applied in suspension systems, pneumatic braking and steering, and it helps trigger airbags.
Key uses include:
- Tyre inflation
- Painting: Spraying and applying coatings to components and car bodies.
- Pneumatic tools: They underpin the braking systems of most heavy goods vehicles and trains. Pneumatic brakes are preferred because they are lighter and easier to use than electric alternatives. Today, compressed air is regarded as the primary energy source for pneumatic tools such as air drills and grinders, and it is also used to power pneumatic production equipment, pneumatic chucks, high-pressure cleaning of parts, and the conveying or cooling of components during manufacture.
- Plasma cutting and welding: To ensure cutting and welding speed and reliability.
- Paint-shop applications: Driving pumps that deliver paint in highly volatile environments, including spray painting.