In a pneumatic 3/2 valve, what is P-port used for?

In a pneumatic 3/2 valve, the P-port is designated as the "supply" port. This port is where the compressed air enters the valve from the air supply. The operation of the 3/2 valve involves directing this supplied air to one of the other ports, which could be the actuator port, based on the valve's position.

When the valve is activated, the compressed air from the P-port can be directed to either the actuator port to activate a pneumatic cylinder or to exhaust, depending on the position of the valve. Understanding that the P-port's primary function is to supply air is crucial when troubleshooting or designing pneumatic systems, as it ensures that the system gets the necessary air pressure for operation. This foundational knowledge is key to effectively utilizing pneumatic machinery and maintaining its efficiency.