Pneumatic Tools - Advantages and Disadvantages

Pneumatic tools are tools which are driven by air.  In a Pneumatic tool, compressed air from a cylinder is made to pass through a control valve which is operated by the user.  The air is then passed through a small turbine which generates rotary motion.  This rotary motion is used to drive a shaft.

This rotary motion can be used for drilling or grinding purposes.  The air is then drained through an outlet.

Advantages
Compressed air is easily available
Tools can be smaller than electric tools.
Pneumatic tools develop high torque
They can be used in environments where there is a risk of fire
They are not affected by temperature
They are clean and do not leave any residue
Compressed air can be guided easily through small tubes wherever required.

Disadvantages
They are noisy
Leakages occur frequently
Air should be dried properly otherwise there can be condensation.