For a customer project I need to use pressurised air and pneumatic actuators/cylinders. Having little experience on the topic I did what I usually do - I read up and look for good videos that explain what I'll need. I couldn't find a good introductory video covering what you need to build a pneumatic setup, so I figured I'd make one myself that explain the questions I had a few months ago.

People use Pneumatics for so many things like air tools and prop making, but in my case I'm making an auto-loading air cannon shooting soft balls :)

I've also gotten requests to add links to the parts that I use. Below are some Amazon affiliate links that give me a cent (or maybe even two) if you pick up parts via these. Remember to buy the same diameter of all things.

1/8" 3/2 Solenoid valve for 12V: https://amzn.to/3h7kTGF
1/8" 5/2 way Solenoid valve 12V https://amzn.to/37CoXvt (not exact same, but similar)
1/8" thread connectors for 1/4 Inch Tube https://amzn.to/3pgBevH
1/4" Pneumatic tube https://amzn.to/34z9N8j

Here I'm suggesting parts using the smaller 1/8" threads with 1/4" tube, but most stores will have other sizes as well. In addition to the above, you'll need several connectors for going up/down in size, but I can't really suggest much more as that would depend on your setup and if you're in a metric/imperial country. The parts above should get you going anyway?

0:00 Intro
1:07 Selecting a compressor
4:13 Connectors and tubing
7:49 Valves and cylinders
10:02 Solving leaks
11:01 Single acting cylinder with 3/2 Pneumatic valve
11:49 Double acting cylinder with 5/2 Pneumatic valve