Air valves/ four independent outputs needed

[reddragon]

  I am going to use four air rams for four different props and i would like to control them independent. Is there a valve out there that can do that using only one air input? If so were could i fine one. Any help is helpful. Thanks ;D

[BigRez]

I think you need four independent valves for that.   A single air line can be split to all four of them, provided you have enough air to run all the props.

[gadget-evilusions]

Are you using single acting or double acting cylinders?

[reddragon]

single acting

[gadget-evilusions]

The correct way to operate 4 single acting cylinders would be with 4 3-way solenoid valves. This is a link to the ones I sell. http://evilusions.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=26_36_62&products_id=77 . They have an air inlet port, a normally closed port that connects to your cylinders inlet port, and an exhaust port to release the air from the cylinder when you want it to retract. If you want only one air inlet and want to simplify plumbing, you can mount your valves on a manifold, http://evilusions.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=26_36_67&products_id=119 , which provides you with a common exhaust port and common air inlet port to all the valves.

I linked my products because I know where they are, but this applies to most all suppliers of pneumatic parts.

[BigRez]

The manifolds are nice especially when multiple valves are used in the same prop, but depending on the distance between your props you may not want to go that route;  You may want to have the valve located close to the prop so that they can act more quickly.  This means a charged air line (and electrical) runs to each prop vs. a line coming from a central valve location.

Also, since they're acting independantly, a single exhaust may not work if you're timing their return. For example, you can slowly release the air on a spring-return cylinder to get an ideal return.  But if you have multiple props exhaust through a single line at the same time, their return could be slower.

Just some thoughts...

[gadget-evilusions]

I did not read that it was 4 seperate props, sorry. If the props are close, say within 20' of each other, it wouldn't be a problem most likley. Farther than that, yes you would want the valves mounted closer to the props.

The exhaust ports of the manifolds and valves can more than easily handle all cylinders exhausting at once with no back pressure.

When using single acting cylinders I use these fittings, http://evilusions.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=26_44_74&products_id=1018 , to give me speed control in both directions. However with most props, single acting cylinders end up costing more than using double acting cylinders.

[reddragon]

what would you suggest that i would be better off with. i may jest have only three props i have one giving me a hunt. i used a washer valve last year and blow out the seal and the prop stand. i what to have it work this year. Thanks for the INPUT guys  8) also does any one know of any new audio cards like the death box Vmusic that isn't a pain in the back side that is out for sell.