Why use a manifold?

[Richard Wallace]

Originally Posted by Chris Fultz

...can be expensive. However, they last several years and can be re-used.

Chris covered all of my team's reasons. I just wanted to +1 his last comment. Although we did not end up using pneumatics in 2016, they were a key part of our development strategy in several previous years. We started using the manifold pictured here on our 2014 competition robot, and have re-used it several times -- on our 2015 competition robot and on a few off-season projects.

[Jon Stratis]

I'll add one thing I've seen in inspection... fill all slots on the manifold appropriately! Solenoids attach to them at the top with a rubber gasket to ensure a good seal. If you aren't using one of those slots, either put a solenoid in there anyways (It's always good to have a backup, if you can afford the weight) or put in an appropriate cap that's designed and sold for that use. I've seen teams block unused ports with epoxy or hot glue before, which just means that manifold is coming off the robot when the inspector sees it!

[FrankJ]

Originally Posted by Jon Stratis

...'ve seen teams block unused ports with epoxy or hot glue before, which just means that manifold is coming off the robot when the inspector sees it!

I am impressed that hot glue holds air.

[Richard Wallace]

Originally Posted by FrankJ

I am impressed that hot glue holds air.

Until it doesn't.

I am glad FRC rules treat pneumatic components as 'sacred'. Use them as designed, and without modifications.

Hot glue doesn't qualify.