Established in 1956, Aerocom GmbH are global leaders in pneumatic tube system manufacturing and supplying of pneumatic tube systems, with branches or agencies in 80 countries worldwide. The Aerocom manufacturing base and company headquarters is located in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany. Aerocom (UK) Ltd are the sole UK supplier for Aerocom products.

Aerocom offers a wide range of operating pneumatic tube system, stations and accessories made to the highest quality and standards synonymous with German manufactured engineering. Does your pneumatic tube system performs well? The product range covers a wide selection of technology, and all equipment is available in optional diameters from 60 to 310mm tube size. The most popular tube diameters used are 110mm for transporting samples or small items, and 160mm for pharmaceuticals or larger components.

Interested in learning more about the benefits of pneumatic tube systems and how they can help streamline your business operations? Fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch shortly.

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Pneumatic Tube Stations

Receive and send items via pneumatic tube systems using stations as the start and end points.

Pneumatic Tube Carriers

Swiftly transport your items through pneumatic tube systems inside pneumatic tube carriers.

What is a Pneumatic Tube System?

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A pneumatic tube system offers a unique and efficient transportation method for moving materials and documents within a building. Extensive tube networks can be established to transport capsules from one location to another using compressed air.

These capsules can carry almost anything you need to move, as both the tubes and capsules can be made to various different sizes and can travel in any direction – up, down, or sideways. The capsules are fully sealed to protect their contents from leaks and contamination, often reaching their destination in just seconds.

Thanks to their pneumatic design, the capsules provide a smooth, air-cushioned ride, making them suitable for transporting even the most fragile items.

For more information about pneumatic tube systems, read our blog here.

 

Pneumatic Tube Systems Technology

We have a range of models available, from simple microprocessor control panels used for basic point to point pneumatic tube systems, to the highest levels of computerised technology with the possibility of:

  • Dedicated control software hosted by a Microsoft Windows
  • Control of infinite send and receive stations on unlimited separate zones
  • Real-time graphics displaying each carrier’s progress through multiple zone networks
  • RFID track and trace with scanner verification
  • Every transaction recorded, filed and accessible through dedicated diagnostics software
  • Security control functions and optional accessories (pin codes, swipe cards, bar code readers)
  • Programmable redirection of transports on timings
  • KPI indication software with graphs and advanced filtering
  • Internet monitoring and email notifications
  • Automatic fault diagnostics and purging functions
  • Interface with BMS and alarm systems

Aerocom constantly develops new functions and upgrades to meet the market demand for the latest innovations and technological advances.

Pneumatic tube systems in Education

Pneumatic System Models

AC3000

Developed in the mid-90s, the AC3000 has become the leading pneumatic tube system for hospitals worldwide. It can control up to 500 send and receive stations on 64 separate zone lines, all operating simultaneously, thanks to its advanced technology and user-friendly Microsoft Windows software. AC3000 is versatile, supporting both original and latest hardware and software, making it timeless. Its robust infrastructure, integration capabilities, and automation features make it ideal for various applications beyond hospitals.

Key Features:

  • Capacity to control up to 500 send and receive stations on a network of 64 separate zone lines.
  • User-friendly Microsoft windows software package.
  • Possibility to run the original hardware and software from previous generations of AC3000 equipment.
  • Built to last.

AC660

Developed mainly for retail applications as a one-way cash tube microprocessor system, AC660 transports carriers from the checkouts to a secure cash office. Outside of retail, it can also be used for two-way operation by adding diverter units for countless other applications. Typically, the AC660 is used with around 10 satellite stations at the tills in supermarkets, cinemas or banks, with a master station in the cash office.

AC660 is also used in distribution centres, processing and returning delivery notes or other documentation.

Key Features:

  • Transports carriers from the checkouts to a secure cash office.
  • Can also be used for two-way operation by adding diverter units for countless other applications.
  • Used with around 10 satellite stations.
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AC2U

For a basic two-way pneumatic tube system, AC2u provides a robust, safe and reliable control system, but does include many additional functions and simple diagnostic codes.

AC2u is available in all common tube diameters and is often used for hospital ED sample fast tracks, document delivery or manufacturing applications.

Key Features:

  • Ideally suited for cost effective point to point pneumatic tube systems.
  • Microprocessor control panel with an integrated AC/DC power transformer.
  • Not limited to only sleeve stations and can send or return from a 3rd master station to two satellite station locations.
  • Start buttons have LED status indications and an arrival indicator

AC4000

The latest development in the AC series is the 4000, it’s a new series of single or multiline pneumatic tube technology, and has no scale limits. This means the system can be used to control any number of stations, zones, interchanges or infrastructure equipment. AC4000 uses a cross-platform server for multi-party remote accesses on Microsoft or Linux computer operating systems. With a SQL database, AC4000 adds a new level of system backup. Added RFID functions add absolute security for carrier delivery.

 Key Features:

  • New series of single or multiline pneumatic tube technology.
  • No scale limits.
  • Control any number of stations, zones, interchanges or infrastructure.
  • Multi party remote access

Choosing a Pneumatic Tube System

Step 1: Decide the tube size

The decision required is the best size of carrier to fit the package or object requiring transportation. This in turn will justify the correct tube system size. Soft packages can be squeezed into the internal carrier chamber, documents will roll up and overlap but boxed or packaged items need more careful consideration.

View our guidelines here.

 

Step Two: Decide the amount of send and receive locations

If the process being streamlined is between two points (A – B) then the only other choices are whether it’s a one way or two ways system, and does it require any tracking or security?

If a more complex network is required, then list the locations, the purpose of the transports, and how regular the sends are expected to be.

Also, any special requirements or local conditions will need considering to help decide the scope of the system required. Our sales team will initially advise on the various options available and suggest compliant solutions.

Step Three: Get a design

Once the scope is established, we can bring in the design team who will advise on either a standard operating system, or possibly a bespoke model which can be designed specifically for a more complex process.

Aerocom will provide a design package based on the agreed requirements with initial layouts drawn by our CAD team, and a technical submittal of the proposed system which will outline any other enabling requirements.

We can then attach a competitive quote to the proposed package, all of which is provided free of charge, and with no obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about our Pneumatic Tube Systems

What is the lifecyle of a pneumatic tube system?

The lifecycle of a pneumatic tube system is relative to that of any other electro-mechanical device,  in the fact that wear and tear will be down to usage, rather than age-related. Most manufacturers, including Aerocom, recommend electrical equipment to be replaced after 10 years of average use.

For more information please visit our Lifecyle page here.

Are pneumatic tubes still in use?

Yes! Pneumatic tubes are still in use. Although their applications have become more specialised to specific industries due to advancements in digital communication and transportation technologies.

At Aerocom, we specialise in pneumatic tube systems for all kinds of environments such as hospitals, retail, manufacturing and even arts and education.

What are pneumatic tubes used for?

Pneumatic tubes are used to transport items securely and efficiently within buildings or across short distance. You may be surprised to learn of the many uses and benefits of having a pneumatic tube system installation within a business, especially those that handle certain materials, parts or for those businesses that simply need an easier way to stay connected throughout a warehouse, factor or laboratory.

Where are pneumatic tubes used?

They’re mostly used in industries such as healthcare and banking to carry out tasks such as transporting documents, lab samples and cash securely and efficiently within buildings or across short distances.

However, pneumatic tube systems are also commonly used by industrial sectors such as quarries and gatehouses, as the chute systems allow them to pass through raw materials without posing risks to drivers and other staff members.

You can also find our pneumatic tube systems in factories that may require a connected system to transport paperwork and even individual parts, with ease and efficiency.

What is the advantage of a pneumatic tube?

There are many advantages of a pneumatic tube such as:

  • Fast and efficient transport of physical items, enhanced security and protection on sensitive materials
  • Reduce manual handling and human error
  • Ability to operate in various environments and across short distances

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The History of Hospital Pneumatic Tube Systems

In the 1950s European hospitals began installing pneumatic tube systems sending documents, X-Rays, small pharmaceutical supplies, and other articles. Eventually, as time progressed the laboratories discovered patient samples could be sent safely by slowing down the systems to prevent haemolysis in blood samples by preventing any slopping around in transport.