2 solenoids per cylinder?

[Mrs N]

Hello,

Can we use two solenoids per cylinder? If so can we use the custom circuit clause to power them together? It seems that each solenoid needs it own connection to the Power Distribution Board, per rule 4.8.16.

We are catapulting the ball using two cylinders 1/16 x 10". Our solenoids are not quite doing the job as we had promising results when using the manual Parker values. Now that we are transitioning to the solenoids we are finding that the air flow is not quick enough to get similar results.

We have checked rules 71 saying unlimited and 77; we think we are okay?

We have been playing with a variety of solenoids:
Festo: VUVG-L10-B52-T-M7-1P3 (dual 24v) we don't get the results, air flow in greatly constricted.
SMC: NVF3130-6G-02T-X119 (single 12v)
CKD: 4GA1110-M5-E01-4 (single 12v )

When using two of either SMC or/and CKD we get more desirable results.

Any other solutions we have not considered?

Thanks!


PS. we too are pushing through a fear of pneumatics that has been embedded over the years!

[EricH]

You think you're OK because of R71 and R77: Keep reading. R90 specifically says that the outputs of multiple solenoids can't be plumbed together.

I do suggest paying attention to the flow restriction on solenoids, or lack thereof, which may allow better air flow.

You could also use shorter cylinders, and run two in line with each other as a replacement for each cylinder you're currently using, each with its own solenoid.