parts?

[alukanuski]

I feel as if all of the parts and systems for pneumatics are changing and I am really hurting for parts. I can't find parts that work with my old systems on Andy Mark or any where else on the internet from my searches. I also don't totally understand the transitive switch the field is doing. Any suggestions for a place to get "old" parts? or an explanation of where everything is going and why it's changing?:confused:

[FrankJ]

The big changes are in 2015. Not this year.
Changes are required in part because the solenoid module is disappearing & other changes in the IO.

The basic control scheme shouldn't change: Processor reads a discrete input from pressure switch & turns on/off relay for compressor.

What are you looking for?
The pressure switch you can get from AndyMark
<http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-2006.htm>
Relief valve <http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-2002.htm>
Other stuff
<http://www.andymark.com/Pneumatics-s/398.htm>
The spike relay to turn on/off the compressor comes from Vex
Valves are a little more complicated since the rules call for a spec that not every valve MFR uses (including the KOP valves) Hopefully the rules will get revisited in this year.

[alukanuski]

I think my main problem is the brass pieces to connect the pressure gauges and such with the rest of the system. All I can find on Andy Mark are pieces with male and female connectors when all I need/can accomadate is female.

[FrankJ]

They are 1/8 NTP (tapered pipe thread) for the most part & 1/4 OD tube.
Locally hardware & big box building supply stores.
Automation Direct also has a large selection
<http://www.automationdirect.com/adc/Shopping/Catalog/Pneumatic_Components/Pneumatic_Fittings_-a-_Air_Couplings>

All though I could be wrong, I don't see the plumbing rules changing.

[alukanuski]

Thank you! You have been a very big help

[protoserge]

Don't stock up too much on tubing, as it's always been available in FIRST Choice and Freelin-Wade will sell at half-price to FRC teams.

As stated, the brass connectors are available at local hardware stores. The push-to-fit fittings are available through AndyMark in FIRST Choice as well.

Do not use the plastic household plumbing fittings like this (http://www.lowes.com/pd_383546-104-PL-3033_0__?productId=3592274&Ntt=plumbing+fitting+push&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dplumbing%2Bfitting%2Bpush%26pa ge%3D4&facetInfo=). They are not pressure rated. You can get plastic push-to-fit fittings on McMaster, Amazon, or a number or other suppliers that are pressure rated.