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Unread 30-05-2013, 11:48
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AKA: Jim Grove
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Re: Pneumatic Test Stand

Avrum,

A few more tips:
1) You should have minimal line losses. If the pressure drops too fast after you shut off the compressor, check for leaks. Put a little liquid dish soap in a cup of water, and spread the soapy water on the joints. Bubbles will appear at the leaks.
a) For brass-brass joints, snug them up a bit more. CAREFUL: The same quality (malleability) that makes brass good at sealing joints, makes them susceptible to ruining them through catastrophic deformation. Happens when you twist too hard with steel wrenches.
b) For plastic line joints, be sure the lines are cut clean and square, and inserted snugly into the quick-disconnects.
c) For the M7 fitting at the solenoids, be sure to use an allen wrench in the center of the quick disconnect. (AM website: "Fastening method: Internal hex (use allen wrench)")
d) At any threaded joint, you may need to use small strips of teflon tape. Be very parsimonious on using teflon tape, as pieces can break off and get into the valves.
2) Recommend that you build the pneumatic system as close to the FIRST system as you can, including the compressor control system with pressure switch and relay hooked to a cRIO. This can give you the experience of building up a whole system to spec now, and you won't have to learn it during the pressure of build season. If you can, work with a local team to borrow a few parts.
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Jim Grove, Mentor
firebirds1915.blogspot.com
(2007-2017) 1915, McKinley Tech HS, Washington, DC
(2009) 2932, Mid-Pac Institute, Honolulu, HI (Rookie Season)
(2011) 2425, Hillsborough HS, Tampa, FL
(2013-2015) 4464, College Park, MD, 2013 Rookie All Star Winner and 2014 Regional Champions, Washington, DC

FIRST is not rocket science. But it is like drinking from a fire hose.