What are the control devices used in pneumatics commonly referred to as?

In the context of pneumatics, control devices are primarily referred to as valves. Valves play a crucial role in regulating the flow of compressed air within a pneumatic system, allowing for precise control over the operation of different components. They can direct airflow, modulate pressure, and control the timing of operations, making them essential for the functioning of pneumatic circuits.

Valves ensure that actuators, which convert the energy of compressed air into mechanical motion, receive the appropriate signals to perform their intended tasks. Without valves, the pneumatic system would lack the ability to effectively manage the distribution and flow of air, leading to inefficient or uncontrollable operations. Thus, the terminology used to describe these control mechanisms as valves accurately reflects their critical function in enabling control over the entire pneumatic system.