Multiple actuators per solenoid?

[zim2411]

I combed through the manuals on pneumatics, and I couldn't find any mention of this, but I probably just missed it.

We need to have 4 linear actuators go off at once, in addition to other pneumatics parts on our robot. We only have 4 double solenoids available (the SMC ones) so my question is, can we hook up a T fitting after the solenoid to allow multiple actuators going through one solenoid? I know we can hook multiple solenoids up to a spike, so that isn't the problem.

[Mike Betts]

I combed through the manuals on pneumatics, and I couldn't find any mention of this, but I probably just missed it.

We need to have 4 linear actuators go off at once, in addition to other pneumatics parts on our robot. We only have 4 double solenoids available (the SMC ones) so my question is, can we hook up a T fitting after the solenoid to allow multiple actuators going through one solenoid? I know we can hook multiple solenoids up to a spike, so that isn't the problem.

Yes, you can connect multiple Bimba cylinders to a single solenoid via T connections. However, you mentioned "linear actuators" which is the industry buzzword for specialized devices which are not allowed on a 2007 FIRST robot. The only "actuators" you are allowed are the Bimba cylinders listed on the last page of the 2007 Pneumatics Manual.

[zim2411]

Ah sorry, I mean the Bimba cylinders. Thanks for the info!

[IndySam]

Just remember that you are dividing the air between the cylinders hooked up to the same solenoid kind of like dividing the current in a parallel circuit. It’s also a good idea to use the flow control fittings so you can balance the speed of the cylinders.

You can also purchase more solenoids if you need to.