In a pneumatic system, what is primarily used to store and compress air?

In a pneumatic system, the primary component used to compress and store air is the compressor. A compressor increases the pressure of the air by reducing its volume through mechanical action, which allows it to be stored in a tank for later use. This compressed air can then be released as needed to power pneumatic tools and machinery.

While a tank is also involved in the system, its role is primarily to store the compressed air produced by the compressor. The tank does not itself compress the air; it simply acts as a reservoir for the already compressed air. A filter is important for removing impurities from the air to ensure the smooth operation of the system but does not contribute to the compression or storage process. Therefore, the compressor is the key element that achieves the necessary compression of air in a pneumatic system.