Pneumatic cylinder size

[bruss6]

Yes, we were just wondering what the max diameter size is on the pneumatic cylinders. We want to know if we are allowed to use a 3" diameter, or if that is too large.

[Gabe]

By the new FIRST update, you are only allowed to use pneumatic cylinders with a largest bore of 2". That still has a force of about 180 pounds.

[DonRotolo]

The only cylinders you can use are those listed on the cylinder order form. No 3" cylinder listed = you cannot use one.

Don

[bruss6]

I have looked for the documentation on the pneumatic rules but cannot seem to find anything restricting the use of a 3" cylinder. Can some one post a link to where I can find this information.

[T3_1565]

can't give documentation but I do know that you are only allowed pnematics that have been ordered from a FIRST supplier. (Bimba, Parker, etc.) and none of them will give you a 3" bore. why would you need it anyways?? It seems pretty overkill to me. Why not use two 2" bores?

[Ricky Q.]

You can only order cylinders in sizes listed on the form that is the last page of the pneumatic manual:

http://www2.usfirst.org/2007comp/other/2007%20FRC%20Pneumatics%20Manual.pdf

Avaliable bores are 3/4", 1.5" and 2".

[Karthik]

Bolding added for emphasis.

<R105> There is no limit to the number of solenoid valves, air cylinders, pressure regulators, and connecting fittings that may be used on the 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, additional air cylinders or rotary actuators may be purchased. However, they must be identical to those listed on the Pneumatic Components Order form (i.e. same part numbers), and obtained from a Bimba or Parker Hannifan distributor.

From the Pneumatics Components Order form (last page of the pneumatics manual), we see that only the following size & bore combinations are legal.

3/4" Bore: 0.5", 1", 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 4", 5", 6", 8", 10" strokes
1.5" Bore: 0.5", 1", 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 4", 5", 6", 7", 8", 9", 10", 11" strokes
2" Bore: 0.5", 1", 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 4", 5", 6", 7", 8", 9", 10", 12", 24" strokes

[bruss6]

alright thanks for the posts. Looks like were gunna have to get a new cylinder.

[kmcclary]

Be warned to keep an eye on cylinders your people are using. I didn't realize until after it was ordered that a subgroup bought a couple of 2" bore by THIRTEEN inch stroke cylinders.

Bimba makes them to order at the time you request them (they don't STOCK them). Therefore, not only can't we use them, they are UNRETURNABLE!

That error cost us several hundred dollars! :ahh: (I guess we'll be using them for pneumatics training now...)

BTW... That's another thing to note - even if you specify "overnight shipping" on the cylinder order form, be aware that it does NOT mean you'll get them the next day! Their manufacturing is a first-come-first-served queue. Depending on their backlog, it can take them up to several days to MAKE the cylinders for you. (So, plan ahead!!)

However, you can check the "order status" online, and it'll show you when they'll make and ship your cylinders. You use your team number as the PO number, and the Ship-To's zip code to pull up the detail sheet on your order.

Note though that making Oernight can still a good idea. Although it may take them a day oor two to make your cylinder order, NOT specifying overnight means they'll go by Ground, which can take quite a while to arrive!

- Keith McClary
Chief Engineer, Tean 1502 "Technical Difficulties"

"I've had to advise on Pneumatics so long it's becoming my religion... I'm now the 'Ecpneumatical Counsel'..."