I have been trying to purchase pneumatics for my new team and my new robot, however they always seem to be out of stock and i could use some suggestions on how to purchase them and if I should buy the single acting or double acting cylinders.
Purchase directly from the manufacturers.
gl;hf
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If you can, get double acting. They’re much more useful than single action, and can serve the same purpose as a single action piston.
All that you actually need from vex is the triport cable that plugs into the solenoid, which can be bought in packs of two for $30. The other components can be purchased legally from SMC resuppliers. This is a list of part numbers that are VRC legal.
You don’t really need all of these parts (at minimum you need a solenoid, tubing, fittings, VEX cable, and a tank). You’ll also want a pump or portable air compressor.
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There should be some new kits out sometime soon, “after WORLDS.”
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With the new motor rules I’d bet the need for air power will drop dramatically. Maybe save your money and wait and see.
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That may be true but with a need for a new claw design for picking up Acorns, I could see the need for pneumatics.
Another note about single vs double-acting pistons. The single-acting pistons have a slightly longer body with the same actuation distance. You can use this as either a pro or a con but it is something important to consider in my opinion. Even with the new 5.5w motors, I personally don’t see pneumatics going anywhere as more power is always more power but maybe thats just my opinion.
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