SMC Solenoid Manifold Deem NOT LEGAL at SVR

[milton1205]

I believe that this part ( or any part not rated for 125 PSI) becomes legal if used on regulated pressure with the addition of a pressure relief valve set to less than the part's rating. See R78 (D). The rule specifies solenoids, but I would think that the manifold would fall under the same rule.

[David Doerr]

We are using an SMC manifold and valves - not the same model sold by Vex, but the same series. We weren't questioned by the inspector at either of our events, but we did have the SMC documentation with us and we had a second pressure relief value mounted on the manifold set to 100 psi.

I'm sorry you had trouble with your inspection.

[kellymc]

The biggest problem I had with the "inspection" was that 12 other teams using the same part were passed through inspection without even a thought as to the part, however we were saddled with 3.5 hours of delay.

I'm more upset about the "selective" enforcement of inspection and the level of inspection, this was out 2nd regional event, had we known this part would be a problem we would have used another part or added a second pressure relief valve.

[EricH]

Originally Posted by kellymc

The biggest problem I had with the "inspection" was that 12 other teams using the same part were passed through inspection without even a thought as to the part, however we were saddled with 3.5 hours of delay.

I'm more upset about the "selective" enforcement of inspection and the level of inspection, this was out 2nd regional event, had we known this part would be a problem we would have used another part or added a second pressure relief valve.

Did you bring your concerns/issues up with the LRI?

[kevin.li.rit]

Originally Posted by EricH

Did you bring your concerns/issues up with the LRI?

I agree with Eric. The LRI or even another inspector maybe familiar with the part and know that it is legal or not. You're well within your right to ask for the Lead robot inspector.

[Owen Makin]

Did you try asking another team for a specification sheet on that part?
Our team was told the actuator on our robot was illegal due to it actually being a motor, but we were still allowed to play practice matches because all you needed was a prelim-inspection, did it stop your team from practicing?

[Jeff Pahl]

As others have stated, in any situation like this, you need to immediately ask, with the utmost Gracious Professionalism, for a ruling from the Lead Robot Inspector at the event.

And then please keep in mind that the ruling of the LRI is the "Last Word" on the subject at that event. I've had teams go off and try to get the Regional Director, Planning Committee members, etc, to try to overrule me on technical issues.

Originally Posted by milton1205

I believe that this part ( or any part not rated for 125 PSI) becomes legal if used on regulated pressure with the addition of a pressure relief valve set to less than the part's rating. See R78 (D). The rule specifies solenoids, but I would think that the manifold would fall under the same rule.

R78(D) only provides an exception for solenoid valves. ALL other parts MUST meet the 125 PSI requirement.