ABSTRACT
Pneumatics use pressurized air to control props. It can be as simple as a burst of air that blows dust out of a book, or as complex as an animatronic figure controlled with multiple pneumatic cylinders. Pneumatic systems can hold a lot of stored energy which becomes dangerous when released in an uncontrolled manner. Skipping or incorrectly doing even a single step can lead to injury. Pneumatic props work when have an area with higher air pressure meeting an area with lower air pressure. The air will move from the higher to the lower until the pressure becomes equal. The pound per square inch, or PSI, is one of the main units we use to measure air pressure. A large stationary compressor may be used to power the entire shop, or small portable air compressors will be moved wherever needed. These portable air compressors can be set up backstage to provide air for a prop.
