losing air pressure

[razor95kds]

this is the first time since our rookie year we are using pneumatics and we run into problems with losig air pressure in our system. We are planning to precharge our tanks and we assume that about 7-10 min will pass between when we charge the tanks and when the match will actually begin. However we lose about 30PSI in 10 min, leaving our systenm short on air. We are using pneumatics for 2 AM shifters and our tube gripper. All cylinders have small bore and throw, but we still thnk air shortage is a problem.

My question is anone else having leakage problems in their systems or do we need to reassembel are system with more teflon tape?

[kevin.li.rit]

You need to find where the leaks are via Leak detector(soapy water works) or by charging each section and plugging it, checking the pressure to see if there are any leaks. The fittings may either need to be tightened or retapped. I usually use on the the quick disconnect t connectors and connect two of the ends together to act as a plug if I need it.

[Not2B]

Once you find the leaks using the soapy water method (and it works really well by the way), you'll need to take the joint apart and re-wrap the teflon tape. Not too much, make sure you go with the threads.

You'll get rid of the leaks in no time.

Good luck!

[Chris Fultz]

take out each fitting, clean the threads (carefully) and wrap with one layer of teflon tape - make sure you don't cover the end - then re-install each fitting. use a wrench and make sure they are tight.

Also, be sure your tube ends are cut straight and pushed all of the way in.

With a tight system, you should be able to go for 30 minutes or more and only lose 5 -- 10 psi.