Physics concepts behind pneumatic tube systems?

[SDSphysGod]

I have a project for my physics class that revolves around the idea of building a working pneumatic tube system. I understand how I would build it and such but my teacher wants me to explain the theory behind it. Does anyone have any ideas about the physics behind this or the principles, rules, and laws that make this possible.

 

[jedishrfu]

You should be able to find some info on Google:

Just type in: "physics of pneumatic tubes"

and see what you get.

I found this article:

https://www.explainthatstuff.com/pneumatic-tube-transport.html

 

[berkeman]

I have a project for my physics class that revolves around the idea of building a working pneumatic tube system. I understand how I would build it and such but my teacher wants me to explain the theory behind it. Does anyone have any ideas about the physics behind this or the principles, rules, and laws that make this possible.

And for extra credit, compare and contrast pneumatic tube systems with Elon Musk's Hyperloop project...

 

[SDSphysGod]

I have a homework assignment about pneumatic tube systems. Part of this is constructing the system which I understand, but the second part of this assignment is about, theory which I do not understand. When I say theory, I am referring to what principles and why this system works. If anyone understands these theories I would appreciate it if I could be referred to a site where theses concepts are explained thoroughly.

 

[.Scott]

There's not a whole lot of theory involved.Air is pumped through the system and the cylinders are designed to fit snugly in the tubes. So the pressure is greater on one end of the cylinder that the other. Often, there is a method for slowing the cylinder down with air pressure just as it arrives at its destination.

Here is a link to the Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pneumatic_tube

 

[berkeman]

(Two threads merged -- please do not cross-post across the PF forums. Thanks)

 

[sophiecentaur]

Don't forget IK Brunel's Atmospheric Railway which ran along the West Bank of the River Exe. There is still a building in Starcross that used to contain one of the steam drives. Google it. It is good fun - but failed because rats ate the leather seals, so I believe.