How many Pneumatics pistons can we use?

[Jeremy]

Does any one know how many Pneumatics pistons we are aloud to use

[M. Hicken]

in years past, it was 3 @ 60psi
i believe this year we can use up to 4 running @ 120psi
someone correct me if im wrong

[RoboCoder]

from the "robot" section of the rules manual, section 5.2.9, Pneumatics System Requirements, rule R54, bullet #3:

There is no limit to the number of solenoid valves, air cylinders, and connecting fittings you may
use on your robot. They must, however, be “off the shelf” pneumatic devices rated by their
manufacturers for pressure of at least 125psi. Besides the “free” pneumatic components listed on
the Pneumatic Components Order form, you may use additional air cylinders or rotary actuators,
however, they must be identical to those listed on the Pneumatic Components Order form, and
obtained from a Bimba or Parker Hannifan distributor.

So, you can use as many as you like it appears :yikes:

As for pressure, you can have 125 psi in the tanks, but still only 60 psi working pressure.

“Working” air pressure on the robot must be no greater than 60psi. All working air must come
from the Norgen adjustable pressure regulator, and all other pneumatic components must be
downstream from this regulator. A pressure gauge must be placed adjacent to the pressure
regulator and display the downstream pressure.

(same rule, 2nd bullet)

[Cory]

You can only have 120 PSI in your accumulators, to clarify. What the rule really says is that all components must withstand 120 PSI of pressure.

Cory

[RoboCoder]

Actually, the cylinders can only be run at 60 psi, (after the air has gone through the regulator). When buying components, FIRST wants all teams to buy equipment that CAN take 120 psi, as a safety issue in case of a failure. That is why they say "off the shelf" pneumatic devices must be "rated for" at least 125 psi, but "working pressure" is a maximum of 60psi. So, if your equipment is designed to handle 125 psi, and you're only using 60 psi (according to the rules), then the chance of having a failure of the equipment itself is significantly decreased. So, 120 psi in the tanks, then the regulator which knocks it down to 60, then your solenoids and cylenders that use the 60 psi. Hope this clarifies.

[generalbrando]

Those last two posts seem to conflict with each other. I think I can clarify. Storage tanks which connect to the pump upstream of the Norgen regulator (the one set to 60 psi) can have 120 psi. This is not "working" pressure, it is the storage. The rest of the system downstream in the working section is 60 psi. I am referring to the pressure used, not the capability of the products used.

As always, if I'm horribly wrong, forgive me and correct me. Hope this helps. Good luck to all!