Pneumatics (SP)

kevin242 · #1 06-02-2006

Hey all,
I'm finally going to take the plunge and build something pneumatic, most likely a body slinger. I've been researching it for a while, but I still seem to have more questions than answers at this point. Basically, I'm looking for a site with a simple diagram of a pneumatic system, its components, and their functions. Also, if you know of a place where I can purchase these components for less $$, that would really help!
thanks,

imax · #2 06-02-2006

I can't offer the much in the way of a site, except for this one:

http://www.phantasmechanics.com/air/index.html

The basics are there.

When looking for equipment, stay the hell away from PVC cylinders. You will regret it. Instead, spend the few bucks on a decent cylinder. They really aren't that expensive (the big ones suitable for haunt use are 50 - $100). The quality, durability, and the fact you won't have to worry about them (except for the occasional oil drop or two) cannot be beat. You don't want to be tearing apart a prop in the middle of the show to fix the cylinder, do you?

The valves are a slightly different story. If you can afford it, I suggest going with a real 5-way valve. Again, these run 50-100 depending upon make, model. They come in all sorts of flavors, from 12VDC solenoids to 120VAC and everything inbetween.

Small valves are cheap. If you have a large cylinder and want your prop to move fast, you need a valve that can handle a large airflow. 1/4" is a great size to get.

If you can't afford the real valves, you can hack one. We've used washing machine valves for years. I hate them, but they do the trick. If you need two-way action (yes, yes, shh...), you will need two valves, OR have gravity/spring/bungee do the reset work for you. I hate these valves because you spend a ton on fittings to adapt them to your cylinder, and they are noisy, and are prone to leak.

People have also used lawn sprinkler system valves, and a wide assortment of other things that are intended for air or liquid.

Now, how you control all this mess is an entirely different subject...

Good luck!

ScareShack · #3 06-02-2006

kevin,check out
http://209.150.104.225/HalloweenTech...oweenTech.html
look around on there theres real great info on what your looking for.

sgtdrpepper · #4 06-02-2006

I was just about to start something similar adn am looking for sources on the internet besides EBAY to purchase cylinders and valves. This was my issue last year, i would not mind paying for good products but cant seem to find any real sources. Anyone have link?

Thanks
Sgt

krough · #5 06-02-2006

Everything you could ever need http://www.mcmaster.com/ .
For prop building anyway

sgtdrpepper · #6 06-03-2006

Krough
Great link, the do seem to have most anything I could dream of.

Thanks
Sgt

Torgen · #7 06-03-2006

My problem is I wouldn't know what the heck to bid on. I gotta get reading on pneumatics, I guess. *sigh*

Zombie-F · #8 06-03-2006

Thanks for the info madmax. This should be a good start for me as far as educating myself goes. It all seems sort of overwhelming at first.

Dr Morbius · #9 06-03-2006

Just wanted to say that Madmax is my idol. I saw his stuff at Haloweenforum.com and I gotta say, he is the KING of home animated props! And getting stuff cheap.!

sgtdrpepper · #10 06-04-2006

After seeing all that MadMax, All I have to say is EBAY HERE I COME.... I am really falling behind this year but I think I have a few more weeks to try to source parts for this year so some time spent waiting for auctions would be worth it. I have always just had a problem finding the right parts. Could be my searching though..