The Pneumatic Age

The public's obsession with pneumatic tubes was undeniable. An ad for Luna Park even boasted a pneumatic tube ride, which would project the rider at speeds up to 3,500 feet per second. This was a prime example that the public's interest in pneumatic tubes was not restricted to it's utility as a mail system.

An article from the Chicago Tribune read "People passing the vicinity of the corner of Washington and LaSalle streets yesterday might have notice a peculiar mechanical operation going on, and on inquiry would have been told that a "pneumatic tube" was being constructed…"(Chicago Trubune 0_3) This first person account records what must have been a very odd experience of seeing these tubes actually being installed. This construction and placement of tubes made tangible the conceptual idea of a media network, in a very physical way. Interestingly it is currently popular to create more clean networks, which aren't realized physically, we have adopted wireless networks, in lieu of cumbersome tubes. However, even though they don't manifest them in the same way we are in fact using pneumatic tubes sending breaths of information as we send text messages and emails through our PDAs.

The comic depicting a man in an empty hotel room may be amusing if only for the fact that it depicts inflatable furniture, a technology that was in fact realized later on. (Chicago Daily Tribune 36) What is most important however is that the pneumatic system has found its way not only into a new facet of human life, more particularly the comic, a lens through which to view the world. Also interesting is the fact that all this pneumatic hype has found its way into a very unpneumatic newspaper.

What is probably most captivating about the concept of using pneumatic post to send food, appears in the very last sentence of the article from Modern Mechanix Magazine, "the fame of German women for tasty cooking may soon pass into obscurity." (Modern Mechanix 41) Here the idea of what it means to be a German woman is being modified by an adaptation of a media technology. What would German women be if they weren't great cooks? The same question can be applied to mail sent through pneumatic tubes, what will your message mean if it is delivered so far from you and so rapidly, but still in an analog way? Unlike the telegraph, which digitizes messages, the pneumatic letter retains analog meaning, which could range from your handwriting to the type of stationary you use. How do these meanings change when they rush away and are made separate and apart from you at amazing speeds?

On November 10, 1893 The Washington Post declared "The present era is likely to be known to history as the pneumatic age. What with pneumatic tubes and pneumatic tires pneumatic bells and pneumatic guns…" These are all accurate and categorical list of several inventions all revolving around wind. However, the Post makes a significant jump when it continues "…to say nothing of pneumatic orators in congress, the wind works seem to be coming to the front." (The Washington Post 4) While the list of pneumatic was clearly intended to point out the pneumatic trend in recent history, the article takes an even more significant leap when it uses pneumatics as a context to describe politicians, an entity completely separate from the technology. Although I can't begin to chronicle history of the saying "windy speaker" This article makes blatant the way pneumatic technology began to dictate the way people viewed their world.

Today, you cannot walk into a post office and ask to express-mail something using pneumatic tubes. However, this technology has not become completely obsolete. Pneumatic tubes are still in use on an extremely small, localized scale, in many banks and large stores for instance. Old buildings still carry traces of the Victorian era with constructed, yet unused, pneumatic tubes. In the 1960s and 1970s, there were numerous inventions utilizing pneumatic tubes for hospitals. These were created namely for nurses to send specimens, blood samples, prescriptions and chart copies to a floor clerk, who would dispatch them appropriately (Allen).

In 2001, the New York Times published an article entitled "Underground Mail Road; Modern Plans for All-but-Forgotten Delivery System" by Robin Pogrebin. The Times reported here that a man named Randolph Stark wished to revive the pneumatic tube postal system beneath New York City, unused for nearly a century; clearly, this dream was never realized. What's interesting to note, however, is the language still used around this dead medium, and how it truly is seen as a ghastly, unexplored presence that still lurks beneath our city's streets.

This twenty-first century article also sheds light on why the pneumatic tube mail system stopped: "The service continued in most cities until 1918, when the high costs of maintenance – $17,000 per mile per year – were thought to be impractical for the small volume of mail transported" (Pogrebin). Ultimately, the pneumatic tube's impracticalities, limitations, and economic unfeasibility led to its "death" as a medium, though it still lies dormant underneath city streets worldwide.

Pneumatic Mail in Europe

The Tubes Pneumatique of Paris date as far back as 1867, but the pneumatic system was originally introduced in London in 1858 (Morss). The first tubes connected the Bourse or stock exchange and the Grand Hotel beginning what would become an enormous system several hundred miles in tubes (Scientific American 1884). Like the system used in America, the tube is filled with compressed air in a partial vacuum.

Instead of using air pumps or any engines, the Parisian system worked using power from the city's reservoir. Originally there were three large connected iron plated vessels that could hold 1,200 gallons each. The first vessel was filled with water, which was pushed into the other two vessels, which were filled with air. The air becomes compressed and once a valve was opened the air escaped rushing with force into the tubes (London Engineer).

The height of pneumatic post in Paris was in the 1930's where a letter, which the French called a pneu could get anywhere in the city in about an hour. 240 miles of tubing, just a few meters under the ground, created the net like system that laid just underneath Paris, carrying letter at an average speed of 40 m.p.h. The pneumatic systems were also created in the French cities Lyons and Marseilles as well as in Berlin since 1866 and Vienna since 1875(Morss). After World War II the system was expanded and modernized but eventually began to decline and the Parisian pneumatic postal system ended in 1984. Now Parisians are offered "same day" delivery post express to replace the pneumatique, which costs two to three times more than sending a pneu, which would arrive not just in the same day but in an hour or at maximum two hours (Vinocur).

The Prague pneumatic post was completed in 1899 with 60 kilometers that could transport letter, documents, and small parcel at 30 m.p.h. Prague's pneumatic post is the only working historical model left in the world. Today not much has changed except the number of parcel sent which use to number in the millions each year and now has dwindled into thousands every month. The post employs fifteen people altogether?– nine workers and six dispatchers. Incoming parcels are indicated by a blinking red light and outgoing parcels by a green light. Every parcel must make a stop on Jindrisska street as the network is star shaped (Drake).

The telegram and pneumatic post are in many ways very similar. Both send messages floating on various airwaves, but it was because of the traffic over the electrical lines that pneumatic telegraph was quickly and widely popular in Paris. For a while to relieve the heavy pressure on telegraphs, telegrams were delivered by couriers on bicycles, every fifteen minutes to and from the Bourse during business hours. After a line was created connecting the Bourse and the Grand Hotel, approximately 700 meters, the next line connected the Grand Hotel to central station on rue de Grenelle St. Germain and that station back to the Bourse. New lines connecting major stations grew rapidly and thousands of telegrams were sent over pneumatic tubes daily (Morss).

Telegrams and pneus were responsible for informing generations of births, deaths, marriages, lottery winners, and broken dates. Pneus were best used sending theatre tickets or contracts, which could not only hold small pieces of paper but could be written in someone's own handwriting (Vinocur). Telegrams had their own language of quickness and saturated content because of the cost per word. As 'tele-' means far in Greek and 'gram' means written or writing, 'pneuma' means soul or vital spirit.

In Fran?ois Truffaut's 1968 film Baisers Volès (Stolen Kisses), a letter is sent through the rattling pipes in the sewers. The film follows the letter as it place in a slot labeled, Pneumatiques and passes through the hands of female dispatchers and placed in the tubes. The film follows the pipes containing the small letter as it races through the underground tunnels that coordinate with the above streets. The pneu passes through the underground Rue de Richelieu and the Champs Elysees before arriving at it's destination, only to be responsible for uniting two unusual lovers. Pneumatic tubes held a spiritual meaning. In theology, "pneumatology" was the belief in "intermediary spirits" whether between person and person or a person and God (Steinweg).

The Pneumatic Tube Strikes Back

Despite this puzzling array of information, one man is credited with "inventing" the pneumatic tube that coiled itself ‘round the world: Albert Brisbane. An American from New York City, Brisbane patented the "Improved Pneumatic Tube for Transporting Goods" (U.S. Patent No. 91513; Dated June 22, 1869).

The language of this patent makes it plain that he did not invent this technology, but instead made vast improvements upon the original, which consisted of an oddly shaped "rectangular pneumatic tube or box, containing a hollow cylinder, running on rails, for the transportation of mails and merchandise" (U.S. Patent No. 91513). It is no wonder, then, why several newspapers at the time accredited Brisbane with inventing the pneumatic tube – he essentially remediated a rectangular box with rails into a pragmatic "round pneumatic tube, containing a hollow sphere or ball" for transporting goods (U.S. Patent No. 91513).

From the perspective of media archaeology, one can sense that this remediation had strong economic motivations. Basic physics reveals that a spherical object sent down a round tube will create less friction than a cylinder sent down a rectangular "tube" on rails. Time is clearly of the essence here; this technology would have been utterly useless had it not been extremely timesaving.

Additionally, Brisbane's patent addresses preventing air leakage by narrowing the sides of the hollow spheres, further emphasizing timesaving strategies. Less air leakage meant more air pressure applied to a narrower space, pushing the object down at much quicker speeds. And of course, one cannot forget the strongest economic motivation in improving a medium: money. Brisbane's patent goes the extra mile by making suggestions for the "cheapest" structure of his pneumatic tube.

Like any medium, the pneumatic tube has certain limitations within itself. We cannot then just focus on the people and events surrounding the medium, but also the traits of the material object itself – traits that will fight back. It is plain that the physical (the visible and tangible) are favored in this medium, since a physical object (i.e. a written letter) must be placed within a "carrier" which is then sent through a tube to a certain destination. This clearly had its advantages: quick communication over short distances that had a personal touch to boot. At the same time, however, this meant that restrictions had to be placed upon the object itself and where it could be sent.

Initially, before realizing the drawbacks of the technology, many imagined that long pipelines of pneumatic tubes could be constructed from say, New York to California. Soon enough, people realized that the "pneumatic plan…proved to be practicable when applied to short distances," such as within a metropolitan area (Chicago Daily Tribune). This realization also arose out of economic hindrances; a short central line cost ￡14,000 to build in London in 1860, before the surge of popularity in pneumatic tubes that followed their improvements. Taking this into consideration, one can only imagine how much a fully functioning pneumatic tube system would cost to build and maintain nowadays.

The length of the tubes did not only inhibit communication, but additionally pieces of mail had to fit within a pneumatic tube parcel or otherwise travel by regular post. While this limitation may not seem too pressing, since other avenues of quick communication were available at the time, it actually had significant impacts. In 1925, the New York Times reported one particularly dramatic instance, wherein a Parisian man killed himself after his girlfriend failed to send him a letter by pneumatic tube. The Times claimed that when this man parted from "an English girl whom he loved, she said she would either send him a ‘pneumatique' (special delivery) message within three hours or never see him again." This woman made the unfortunate mistake of placing the letter "in an envelope too large for the Paris pneumatic tube system for fast mail," and it "arrived by ordinary post too late to prevent the suicide" (New York Times).

This medium was also problematic in that it literally clogged up during times of high traffic. Frequently a parcel would become "arrested in its course, causing an obstruction, the locality of which it is very difficult to ascertain" (Scientific American). This Scientific American article from 1873, entitled "Novel Mode of Locating Obstructions in Pneumatic Tubes" describes a method of isolating pneumatic tube obstructions utilizing sound waves. Another article in Scientific American, "Pneumatic Tubes," outlines how the tubes could be unclogged: "…the whole force of the compressed air is then turned into the pipe.

If that be insufficient, a head of water fifty feet in height is added" to remove the obstruction. The fact that this medium clogged speaks to the sheer popularity of pneumatic tubes, and simultaneously indicates just how impractical they were. Interestingly enough, this phenomenon is reminiscent of high Internet "traffic" in the modern world. Though wireless signals and telephone lines aren't physically "clogged" with parcels, servers do become overwhelmed with requests, slowing down the system as a whole. (Though it would probably be a really, really bad idea to shoot water into your router.)

The Pneumatic Tube on Broadway

Pneumatic Tubes are networks of hollow tubes through which cylindrical containers carrying small items (i.e. mail) are sent, driven by the force of compressed air, which is usually generated by an engine or water. These tubes can be constructed in any number of ways, using various metals and wood.

A motion has been made in the Legislature for the repeal of the bill authorizing the Beach Pneumatic Transit Company to run an underground tube from the corner of Warren-street and Broadway, beneath Broadway, to within 200 feet of Cedar-street. The bill granting the Company the privilege of prosecuting their work was, it appears, in the form of an amendment to an old bill, and it was thus got through the Legislature without attracting special attention.

Yesterday Mayor Hall had a conference with the Deputy Corporation Counsel in regard to the rights of the City in this matter. The Mayor has some doubts as to whether the Legislature can give a company the right to excavate beneath a street, and thus, in some measure, to place both public and private property in danger. Mr. O'Gorman, the Corporation Counsel, was unable, through sickness, to attend the conference. Should he be of the opinion that the rights of the City Government are being infringed the matter will at once be brought before the Courts.

Something has been said in regard to the caving in of the surface of the east side of Broadway above the Pneumatic tube. There is certainly a flattening of the surface of the Broadway pavement, near Warren-street, but whether this is due to the underground excavations or to the imperfect manner which the pavement was laid is questionable. The Company declare that, as yet, the excavation has barely reached Broadway, and that consequently the caving in of the street is all nonsense.

Although pneumatic tubes in their physical form were not invented until the late 1800s, the idea that pressurized air could be used to propel objects through empty vessels has been explored since antiquity. One of the earliest instances of such research occurred in Ancient Greece, when Hero of Alexandria completed his treatise on pneumatics. Exactly when The Pneumatics (or Pneumatica) of Hero of Alexandria was published is still up for debate, though most scholars agree that he lived in the first century BC. Regardless, Hero of Alexandria's Pneumatica assumed that "…air is matter.

The air when set in motion becomes wind, (for wind is nothing else but air in motion)" (Hero of Alexandria 2). He found that "if from the application of force of the particles of air be divided and a vacuum be produced larger than is natural, the particles unite again afterwards; for bodies will have a rapid motion through a vacuum, where there is nothing to obstruct or repel them, until they are in contact" (Hero of Alexandria 3). In other words, air is excessively dense yet its particles are extremely flexible; when it is compressed, it will fall into empty spaces from the pressure exerted upon its particles. This creates a "vacuum" which, as Hero of Alexandria explores in his book, can put objects and machines in motion by the force of air.

While none of the nineteenth-century patents or articles dealing with pneumatic tubes cite Hero of Alexandria's treatise, one can infer that his research informed the workings of this dead medium over one thousand years later. In a way, the pneumatic tube is a remediation of Hero of Alexandria's early pneumatic devices. But even though we can trace pneumatics into antiquity, the actual "invention" of the pneumatic tube has a history that is complicated and confusing. The pneumatic tube's invention cannot be traced back to a sole "inventor," but rather a baffling hodge-podge of patents and improvements. This surge of innovation speaks to the moment of mass invention and production associated with the late 1800s and the Industrial Revolution; there are literally hundreds of patents involving pneumatic tubes between 1870 and 1900 alone.

Beach Pneumatic Transit

The Interborough Rapid Transit subway, which broke ground in 1900 after many years of political maneuvering, was not the first attempt at transit tunneling in New York City. Several other groups attempted to build tunnel lines with varying degrees of success. Probably the most well known of these early attempts, at least in terms of subway lore, was an 1870 demonstration line, the Beach Pneumatic Transit.

Alfred Ely Beach, inventor and editor of Scientific American, had designed a pneumatic (air-driven) system which he demonstrated at the American Institute Fair in 1867, and he thought it viable for transit operation in underground tunnels. He applied for a permit from the Tammany Hall city government, and after being denied, decided to build the line in secrecy, in an attempt to show that subterranean transit was practical. (He actually did receive a permit to built a pneumatic package delivery system, originally of two small tunnels from Warren St. to Cedar St., later amended to be one large tunnel, to "simplify construction" of what he really intended to build.)

Sketch of Beach installation at the American Institute Fair.

The Beach tunnel was constructed in only 58 days, starting under Warren Street and Broadway, directly across from City Hall. The station was under the south sidewalk of Warren Street just west of the Broadway corner. The single track tunnel ran east into Broadway, curved south, and ran down the middle of Broadway to Murray Street, a distance of one block, about 300 feet in all. The subway opened to the public on February 26, 1870.

Operated as a demonstration from 1870 to 1873, the short tunnel had only the one station and train car. While frequently mentioned as an important early development in New York City's transit history, it was merely a curiosity. It is unclear that such a system could have been practical on a large scale. Smaller tube systems are used in buildings for mail delivery, but a rail-car sized system has never been developed. The perfection of electric multiple-unit traction and electric locomotives came about so quickly after this experiment that it wasn't deemed worthwhile to even try an expanded pneumatic system.

So what remains now? Probably nothing. The tunnel under Broadway was almost definitely destroyed during the BMT subway construction. A report in the New York Times in 1912 describes the tunnel, but the station had probably been destroyed when the building at Broadway & Warren was torn down and rebuilt. During the replacement of the building, the station, which was essentially a basement vault under the sidewalk, may have been incorporated into the new basement. Gratings in the sidewalk on Warren Street indicate some vault or ventilation areas are down there today.

In 1912, construction workers on what is now the BMT Broadway subway (N and R trains) took possession of the tunnel, and found the original shield at the south end of the tunnel, as well as the wooden remains of the car. The successor company to Beach Pneumatic Transit even sued the city for destroying their property! (The outcome of this lawsuit is unknown.)

A Review of the Bostitch MIIIFS Flooring Stapler

If you need to install hardwood flooring, then you will need a stapler designed especially for the task. The Bostitch MIIIFS is a pneumatic flooring stapler perfect for installing hardwood flooring. This stapler measures 17 inches long and weighs only 11 pounds. You can find it at an average price of $450. Let's take a look at some of the other features offered by this flooring nailer.

The Bostitch MIIIFS is designed to fire 15-gauge staples. It is relatively versatile as it can use either 1 1/2 or 2-inch staples. Also, the tool can hold up to 92 staples at a time. The Bostitch MIIIFS is fitted with a 3/8-inch air inlet. The stapler is designed to operate between a pressure of 60 and 100 pounds per square inch.

The Bostitch MIIIFS features high-speed mallet actuated pneumatic operation. This is much more productive than using manual methods to drive staples into hardwood flooring. This design is capable of providing 420 inch-pounds of driving force. The Bostitch MIIIFS is also designed to drive staples at the proper angle and depth to prevent damage to the surface. You can also adjust it to accommodate different tongue positions and materials of different thicknesses.

You will also appreciate the composite base plates included with the Bostitch MIIIFS. These plates allow you to install 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch bases. These base plates are designed to provide additional stability. The Bostitch MIIIFS is also equipped with a long-reach handle for extra control and comfort. You also have the option of using a shorter handle.

Flooring throughout your home is reflection of your comfort and style. A variety of flooring options are available. Depending on your preference, location in your home, and cost.

Flooring Options listed below: Carpeting, Vinyl, Wood, Laminated, Bamboo, Cork and Ceramic Flooring

Most popular flooring is carpeting. Economical suitable for all budgets, and styles. Certain factors to consider when choosing a carpet: Nylon is a synthetic fiber, best for strength and abrasion resistant, available in a wide price range, resist moth, mildew and fungi. Disadvantages: Stained by oil and grease. Also, degrades and fades in sunlight. Wool carpeting is natural fiber shorn from sheep, resist crushing, provides natural flame resistance, and best carpeting money can buy. Disadvantages: Very expensive, and soils easily. Olefin (polypropylene) carpeting: Abrasive resistance fiber, and strong fiber, no static problem. Disadvantages: limited choice of color, grabs onto oil / grease, dry-cleaning solvents degrade fibers, and inexpensive. Polyester carpeting is naturally stain resistant fiber, has no dye sites, and crush resistant. Disadvantages: Not durable than nylon carpets, and expensive.

What you need to consider, when examine a carpet: Twist refers to number of times individual fibers are twisted. Preferable the tighter the twist, the better the carpet will retain its appearance. Pile Density refers to thickness and closeness of the pile yarn. Purchasing a High Density carpet is more desirable. This can be noticeable, when trying to wiggle a finger all the way down into the carpet. Upon any resistance is a better quality carpet. Common feature that carpets will have a stain - repellent coating, that will allow liquids to bead up on the surface, instead of getting absorbed. This makes cleaning much easier.

The Bostitch MIIIFS measures three inches wide and 17 inches long. It weighs only 11 pounds, so it shouldn't be too much for you to carry around for big projects. In addition to the base plates, the package for the Bostitch MIIIFS also includes the graphite mallet used to operate the stapler.

If you need to add a flooring stapler to your arsenal of tools, then you should consider buying the Bostitch MIIIFS. The high-speed mallet actuated pneumatic operation can provide up to 420 inch-pounds of driving force. Also, the Bostitch MIIIFS is packaged with 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch base plates to provide additional stability. You will also appreciate the versatility offered by the stapler as it can accept either 1 1/2-inch or 2-inch staples.

Three Different Types of Forklift Tires

Forklifts come in many different types as they are designed to be used for a variety of purposes. You will need the right kind of forklift tires to ensure the vehicle performs to the best of its ability. There are three main types of tires such as pneumatic, solid, and polyurethane. This article will discuss the different types of forklift tires.

Pneumatic

One of the first types of forklift tires is the pneumatic kind. Pneumatic tires are tough and durable and look just like the tires that are used on most heavy-duty trucks. They are commonly used to help the forklift deal with rough terrain easily. They are made from strong, thick rubber and have a deep tread. These forklift tires are filled with air and help the forklift last longer by providing an air cushion between the forklift and the ground.

Solid

Some forklift tires are made of solid rubber. Although they look similar to pneumatic tires, they are not filled with air as they are completely made of solid rubber. These tires can last a long time and will never pop or become deflated like pneumatic tires. However, solid forklift tires do not help extend the lifespan of the forklift because they don't provide a cushion of air between the vehicle and the ground. These tires also have the advantage of being able to be used outdoors or indoors, although they shouldn't be used outside on a regular basis.

Polyurethane

One of the final types of forklift tires are made of polyurethane. These are simple tires that are designed to be pressed onto the wheel of the forklift. They are very easy to install. Forklift tires made of polyurethane are the best type to use on electric forklifts. They provide excellent traction, but are only suitable for use indoors. They will not be able to withstand rough terrain like other tires that are suitable for outside use.

These are the different types of forklift tires. Pneumatic tires are tough and durable, so they are ideal for outside use on rough terrain. They also help the forklift have a longer lifespan as they provide a cushion of air between the vehicle and the surface of the ground. Solid tires have the advantage of never deflating like the pneumatic variety, but they don't extend the lifespan of the forklift. Forklift tires made of polyurethane are only suitable for use indoors as they won't be able to withstand rough terrain.

Four Types of Skid Steer Tires

There are basically four types of skid steer tires. These types include pneumatic, solid, foam-filled, and semi-pneumatic. Each type of tire has its own advantages and disadvantages. This article will discuss the various types of skid steer tires.

Pneumatic

One of the first types of skid steer tires is pneumatic. These tires are filled with air and are usually the standard tire that comes with a skid steer. They are popular because they are the least expensive. As you already know, air-filled tires are prone to punctures. This is the problem the next three types were designed to address.

Solid

Solid tires aren't filled with air, but are made of one piece of solid rubber. These tires are not prone to punctures like the pneumatic variety. They also have no tread, so they will last longer than other types of tires. However, these skid steer tires are uncomfortable to ride on because they don't absorb shocks. This reduced shock absorption will also help wear down the skid steer. Solid tires are also the most expensive because they use the most rubber.

Foam-Filled

One of the next types of skid steer tires is the foam-filled variety. These tires are hollow pieces of rubber that are filled with polyurethane foam. Foam-filled tires aren't prone to punctures and are more comfortable to ride on than solid tires. These skid steer tires also have more tread options than other types. The only drawback of these tires is that the foam can leak out if the tire sustains enough damage in rough terrain.

Semi-pneumatic

One of the final types of skid steer tires is semi-pneumatic. Semi-pneumatic tires are solid tires that have holes in the sidewalls. These holes are designed to provide shock absorption. Therefore, semi-pneumatic tires will provide a more comfortable ride than solid or foam-filled tires. These skid steer tires will also last longer because they have deeper treads. The major disadvantage of semi-pneumatic is that they cost more than twice as much as other types of tires. Also, the holes in the tires can snag on metal and easily get damaged.

These are the different types of skid steer tires. Pneumatic, or air-filled tires, are the most common. Solid tires aren't prone to punctures like the pneumatic variety, but are very uncomfortable to ride on. Semi-pneumatic tires are more comfortable, but cost more than twice as much as other types of tires.

Pneumatic Drill Tips and Tricks

Pneumatic nailers, or air nailers, are terrific tools that can produce tons of work in little time. As a power tool using great force, these nailers are extremely useful, but also dangerous. It is very important to use caution and proper technique to get the best results and avoid any accidents. Here are tips to get the most out of your air nailer.

Read the manual. Every drill is different. Subtleties are important to understand, and your manual will outline important information pertaining to safety, handling, voltage, and warranty information. Understanding your tools is the best way to extend their life.

Keep the drill steady, do not attempt to make a hammer like motion. This will prevent any undesired marking to your workspace.

Never carry the nailer by the handle. Accidents can be prevented in nearly all cases.

When you are ready to nail, press the gun forward slightly. This unlocks the safety mechanism that is built into the tool to prevent unwanted discharge.

If your nails are not going far enough, increase the pressure on the hose until you are satisfied with the depth of the press.

When you nail, always make your insertion flush to the molding and receptive surface. This will help ensure a straight and level finish.

Always check the length and size of the nail. If the size is incorrect, your result will not be pleasing and it may have to be redone. Sink the nails into the frame as much as possible.

Use a brace to secure your nailing structure if necessary to prevent any damage during your work.

Make sure the area you are working with is a smooth surface. The most reported misuse of an air nailer is that they have trouble when they hit a knot in a piece of wood. In these instances, the nail might bed or curl out of the trim and ruin the molding.

Be safe. Never wear loose clothing, make sudden movements, or punch without looking around the drill. This is a power tool and should be respected as such. Never leave the drill active with children or animals present, and make measurements before nailing.

Following these tips will help ensure productivity and attention to detail. These tips should help out. A pneumatic drill can increase your efficiency seven fold, so use it to your advantage and get the job done right.

Cypress Envirosystems: Wireless Pneumatic Thermostat

A wireless pneumatic thermostat with direct digital control-like functionality enables automatic zone-by-zone scheduling of temperature set point changes, automatic calibration, and remote monitoring of temperature and pressure.

Woodworking Tools for the Well Stocked Shop

According to the manufacturer, it can be installed in older buildings with legacy pneumatic thermostats where upgrading to a direct digital control HVAC system would require the replacement of existing pneumatic pipes and terminal boxes with electrical actuators and dampers and additional cabling, which is both expensive and disruptive. Building operators have the flexibility to retrofit only selected zones rather than an entire building all at once. The thermostat can operate as a standalone system or can integrate with existing building automation systems such as Siemens, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, and TAC via BACnet. The thermostat has the ability to control and track after-hours HVAC usage, particularly for cost recovery in multitenant buildings.

Hand Saw

Unless you restrict your woodworking to precut birdhouse kits, you will at some point find yourself face to face with a board that needs cutting. A hand saw makes the process quick and easy, does not require copious safety guards to be put in place and won't balk at small corners. The only thing better than one woodworking hand saw is a set of three. Garrett Wade sells a German model 3-in1 saw kit that features one handle and three blades: a joiner, a fine cut and a pruning blade.

Heavy Duty Utility Knife

Some cuts require the kind of precision only a utility knife can deliver. Ace Tool Online sells the Greenlee that features an oversized grip, which allows for positioning the blade in three different settings. Adding more convenience to the setup, you can even store the blades inside the handle. It is a bit more expensive than your average utility knife, but it is also a lot more comfortable to grip.

Hand Drill

Another one of the woodworking tools you simply cannot be without is the hand drill. Although nobody will dispute that electric or cordless models work great, in some cases the need for a woodworking hand drill calls for minute accuracy. This is not something to leave to a power tool. Consider the ?" chuck made by Schroeder and sold by Traditional Woodworker. At a length of 9?", it is a good fit even for tight spaces. Yes, it's another German tool.

Chisel Set

Woodworking projects would be impossible to finish without chisels. They cut and carve minute detail work or make wide ridges. Even if you cannot find a chisel set that includes a gouge, opt for a woodworking set that includes a number of different sizes. Woodcraft sells an eight piece bench chisel set that comes with ?, 3/8, ?, 5/8, ?, 1, 1?, and 1? inches blades. Make sure you hone this set prior to using it and then keep it well honed.

Universal Bit Holder with Ratchet

You could invest in a screwdriver kit, but why would you? The universal bit holder by PB Tools is ergonomically correct and the ratchet takes the frustration out of working with uncooperative screws in tight places. The set features 20 bits that cover slot and Phillips screws as well as hexagons and a couple others.

Claw Hammer

Woodworking involves hammering in nails and removing them. No set of woodworking hand tools would be complete without a good quality claw hammer. Stanley features the "Fat Max" with an oversized strike face that makes hitting the mark just a bit easier.

Hand tools for woodworking may appear antiquated to the uninitiated, but there are some things you just cannot do with pneumatic or electric woodworking tools. Read on for the six must-have hand tools no shop should be without.

Solenoid Valve Applications - Evaporator Temperature Control

A solenoid valve installed in the liquid line as close to the evaporator as possible, in conjunction with a narrow differential thermostat, is an excellent temperature control. By mounting the thermostat bulb in the supply or discharge air across the evaporator, the temperature swing is limited only by the differential of the thermostat.

This type of temperature control can be used on a single or multiple evaporator system and is particularly useful on multiplexed systems with evaporators at different temperatures.

Defrost Pump Down

In situations where the condensing unit is installed in a low ambient, such as on a rooftop in northern climates, and the evaporator is operating at a temperature above the ambient, a pump down solenoid valve should be used. This allows the pressure control to be set at a cut out of 1 to 2 psi and the cut in to be set at a pressure below the pressure corresponding to the ambient temperature. This will ensure that the condensing unit will start after cooling down during the defrost.

When a system has a defrost pump down solenoid valve, a thermostat should be used in series with the defrost time clock to control the temperature of the space or fixture. An alternative to the thermostat would be an evaporator pressure regulator.

Note: System diagrams are for illustrative purposes and are intended to show application of solenoid valves only.

Heat Reclaim Systems

Basically, there are two types of heat reclaim systems: the series system and the parallel system.

In the series system, during normal operation, the discharge gas is condensed completely in the condenser. During the heating mode, the normally opened solenoid valve closes off the condenser and the normally closed solenoid opens to allow the discharge gas to flow into the heat reclaim coil. Complete condensation can occur in the heat reclaim coil if so designed, but manufacturers often prefer to take advantage of all the sensible heat available but only part of the latent heat, depending on the condenser for complete condensation.

In the parallel systems there are, in effect, two separate condensers. During normal operation, the condenser is used for complete condensation of the discharge gas. In the heat reclaim mode the discharge gas is completely condensed in the heat reclaim coil, thus maximizing the use of both sensible and latent heat. Some manufacturers recommend installing a 1/4-inch line from the heat reclaim coil, at its lowest point, back to the receiver to ensure the proper drainage of oil and liquid refrigerant during the off cycle. Other manufacturers suggest the installation of a pressure control, to ensure that the system will switch from the heat reclaim mode to the condenser in the event of fan stoppage or clogged filters.

Split Evaporator — Humidity Control

There are often times when the air temperature is satisfactory but the humidity level is too high. This can be remedied by using only half the evaporator to dehumidify the air without excessive cooling and the addition of auxiliary heat. This can best be accomplished by using a normally open solenoid valve on one half of the evaporator controlled by a humidistat.

Hot Gas Defrost System

Hot gas defrost offers an excellent alternative to electric or air defrost. In this system the hot compressor discharge gas is routed to the outlet of the evaporator. This hot gas warms the evaporator, thaws any frost that has accumulated, condenses into a liquid, and flows into the common liquid line to feed the other evaporators.

In order for this system to work properly, check valves must be installed to allow flow around the expansion valves. A pressure reducing valve should be used in the liquid line to provide a pressure differential between the condensed refrigerant leaving the defrosting evaporator and the common liquid line.

The system shown is drawn with only two evaporators but it is recommended that only 25 percent of any multiplexed system be hot gas defrosted at any given time.

An alternative to the hot gas defrost system is the cool gas defrost, which uses the gas from the top of the receiver to defrost the evaporators. Because the cool gas defrost operates at a lower temperature, the thermal expansion of the refrigeration lines is reduced. This often eliminates the need for special piping techniques and leaks caused at line connections by excessive thermal flexing.

Capacity Control System

A simple method of providing compressor unloading is to use a solenoid valve connecting the discharge and suction lines of the compressor. The solenoid valve is controlled by a pressure control which responds to suction pressure. When the switch closes, it opens the normally closed solenoid valve and discharge gas is short circuited back to the suction side of the compressor.

In order to prevent overheating of the compressor, a thermostatic expansion valve should be installed to provide cooling to the compressor suction gas. An alternative method consists of injecting hot gas into the evaporator inlet. This prevents overheating of the compressor and increases the velocity of the gas through the evaporator.

This type of unloading should not be attempted without thorough analysis of solenoid valve and expansion valve sizing.

Liquid Line Shut-Off

In an effort to obtain a higher efficiency rating on residential and commercial air conditioning systems, a normally closed solenoid valve typically is installed in the liquid line located near the air handler or furnace. In this case, the solenoid valve is wired in parallel with the contactor circuit (24 VAC) and may require a larger transformer to accommodate the valve.

As an alternative method, a normally closed solenoid valve may be located in the liquid line near the condensing unit and wired directly to the compressor motor terminal box. This solution improves system efficiency and maintains the refrigerant charge in the condenser coil during the off-cycle of the compressor which prevents refrigerant migration when long piping runs are used.

If the solenoid valve application requires a fail-safe or open mode, a normally open solenoid valve may be used. In this instance, the valve may also be located in the condensing unit and wired in series with the compressor crankcase heater.

Understanding Solenoid Valves

Solenoid valves are highly engineered products that can be used in many diverse and unique system applications. A brief overview of the pneumatic component and functional varieties of solenoid valve follows.

Valve Construction And Basic Operation

A solenoid valve is an electronically operated device. It is used to control the flow of liquids or gases in a positive, fully-closed or fully-open mode. The valve is commonly used to replace a manual valve or where remote control is desirable. A solenoid is operated by opening and closing an orifice in a valve body that permits or prevents flow through the valve. The orifice is opened or closed through the use of a plunger that is raised or lowered within a sleeve tube by energizing the coil. The bottom of the plunger contains a compatible sealing material, which closes off the orifice in the body, stopping flow through the valve.

The solenoid assembly consists of a coil, plunger, and sleeve assembly. In a normally closed valve, a plunger return spring holds the plunger against the orifice, preventing flow through the valve. When the coil is energized, a magnetic field is produced, raising the plunger and allowing flow through the valve. In a normally open valve, when the coil is energized, the plunger seals off the orifice, stopping flow through the valve.

Direct Operated Solenoid Valves

Direct operated solenoid valves function to directly open or close the main valve orifice, which is the only flow path in the valve. Direct operated valves are used in systems requiring low flow capacities or in applications with low pressure differential across the valve orifice. The sealing surface that opens and closes the main valve orifice is connected to the solenoid plunger. The valve operates from zero pressure differential to maximum rated pressure differential (MOPD) regardless of line pressure. Pressure drop across the valve is not required to hold the valve open.

Pilot Operated Valves

Pilot operated valves are the most widely used solenoid valve. Pilot operated valves utilize system line pressure to open and close the main orifice in the valve body. In a piston-style valve, the main orifice is held closed with a piston seal pressed against the main orifice by the combined fluid pressure and spring pressure. In a normally closed valve, the piston is shifted or opened when the pilot operator is energized. This allows fluid behind the piston to evacuate through the valve outlet. At this point, the system line pressure moves the piston, opening the main orifice of the valve allowing high capacity flow through the valve. When energizing the coil of a normally open valve, fluid pressure builds up behind the piston, forcing the piston to seal the main orifice of the valve.

Design Terminology

Continuous Duty — A rating given to a valve that can be energized continuously without overheating.

Correction Factor — A mathematical relationship related to a fluid’s specific gravity used to convert specific flows from a standard media to the media in question.

Current drain — The amount of current (expressed in amperes) that flows through the coil of a solenoid valve when it is energized.

Cv Factor — A mathematical factor that represents the quantity of water, in gallons per minute, that will pass through a valve with a 1 psi pressure drop across the valve.

Flow — Movement of fluid created by a pressure differential.

Flow Capacity — The quantity of fluid that will pass through a valve under a given set of temperature and pressure conditions.

Manual Stem — A mechanical device that permits the manual opening or closing of a valve in the case of emergency or power failure. A manual stem is available on all normally closed valves.

Maximum Operating Pressure Differential (MOPD) — The maximum pressure difference between the inlet and outlet pressures of the valve must not be exceeded, allowing the solenoid to operate in both the energized and de-energized positions.

Minimum Operating Pressure Differential — The minimum pressure difference between the inlet and outlet pressures required for proper operation. This minimum operating pressure differential must be maintained throughout the operating cycle of pilot operated valves to assure proper shifting from the closed position to the open position and visa versa. In the absence of the minimum operating pressure, the valve may close or will not fully open.

Orifice — The main opening through which fluid flows.

Safe Working Pressure — The maximum pressure a solenoid valve may be exposed to without experiencing any damage. The solenoid valve does not have to be operable at this pressure, but merely withstand the pressure without damage.

The Trash Can as a Pneumatic Tube

Underneath the 40-block strip of land between Queens and Manhattan known as Roosevelt Island is a complex system of pneumatic tubes that connects the island's 12,000 or so residents. But it's not mail that's hurtling through them at at 30 miles an hour. It's garbage. Vacuum cleaners, Christmas trees and last night's unfinished dinner have all passed through the intestines of the Automated Vacuum Assisted Collections facility, a pneumatic trash system built in 1975 that seems forever ahead of its time.

An exhibit titled "FAST TRASH: Roosevelt Island's Pneumatic Tubes and the Future of Cities," examines this Jetsons-like system and how it can be used as a model for hauling away unwanted items in other cities. Curated by the architect Juliette Spertus and the design firm Project Projects, the month-long exhibit opens on April 22, Earth Day, at the Rivaa Gallery on the island.

"The point is to get the conversation started," Ms. Spertus said. By showing how other cities like Barcelona, Macao and Stockholm are retrofitting or using the technology, she hopes that the range of projects displayed will provoke people to think differently about urban planning. A panel discussion at the New York University Wagner Graduate School of Public Service called "Comparative Garbage Collection Strategy and Urban Planning" will follow on May 6.

The "Fast Trash" show will dissect the pneumatic transport system using explanatory diagrams and video interviews with the engineers who maintain the system, and offer a little bit of whimsy. A selection of drawings produced through a collaboration between the Center for Urban Pedagogy (CUP) and students from the Child School explore what garbage collection might look like in a future without roads.

The show also celebrates the 40th anniversary of the master plan that the architects John Burgee and Philip Johnson developed for what was then called Welfare Island.

Judy Berdy, the president of the Roosevelt Island Historical Society and a 32-year resident, said she hoped the exhibit would shine a light on the island she called "a perfect Utopian village." She praised the clean and efficient trash system, but said it was in perpetual jeopardy.

"Every year the sanitation department threatens to cut it from the budget, and every year our councilman saves it," she said.

Ms. Spertus compared the trash tubes with another better-known and relatively beloved piece of infrastructure on the island, the tramway that connects it to Manhattan. Because the trash system is invisible to residents, she said, it suffers from a lack of respect.

"What they like about it is, they don't have to think about it," said Ms. Spertus. "It's not something you can ride on."

The staff of eight full-time engineers perform regular repairs and maintenance on the pneumatic air cylinder system, monitoring the vacuum seals and gauges, which are often on the fritz. They have halted the engines for residents who panicked about missing false teeth, wedding rings and pocket books that have been sucked under the city's streets. And even let them sift through a 12-ton pile of refuse.

How to Use an Air Pneumatic Nailer in 10 Easy Steps

Using an air nailer has the potential of saving you a lot of time and effort -- if you learn about air nailer safety. Follow these 10 air nailer tips on how to use your pneumatic nail gun safely and effectively, and your kitchen cabinets will hang in no time!

Define Your Air Nailer Need

Will you attach kitchen cabinets to a wall or frame a house? Just like you won't use a sledge hammer to hang a picture, you wouldn't use an air nailer capable of shooting 16 inch nails for small jobs. Understand what kind of pneumatic nail gun you need and buy accordingly. Grainger is a great source of various different makes and models.

Learn How to Use Your Air Compressor

If you opt for an air nailer that relies on a stand-alone air compressor, learn how to use the compressor. Air nailer safety depends on all the components involved during a project, and this includes the stand alone compressor (if required).

Get Out the Safety Gear

Safety goggles might not get you many dates, but having two eyes greatly enhances your odds of doing well with the ladies (since most nail gun accidents happen to men - according to the CDC - I am addressing the men here). Wear safety goggles and - if you work in confined spaces - also invest in some ear protection. These air guns can get loud!

How to Use Air Nailer Tools: Read the Manual

Read the manual that came with your pneumatic nail gun. Even if you just replaced an identical model, read the section on how to use the air nailer safely, just in case there are some updates since the last time you bought a model.

Understand how the Pneumatic Nailer Works to Lessen the Recoil Shock

Depending on the application of your air nailer, you may experience quite a bit of recoil. Be prepared by learning how your air nailer works. Lowe's offers a great explanation on the subject.

Air Nailer Safety in Confined Spaces

If you are using a palm nailer, you won't have to worry too much about working in a confined space. On the other hand, if you are using a powerful full sized model, the recoil from a badly placed nail can literally lead to a head injury. Unless you use a mini model, do not use your pneumatic nail gun in confined spaces where it is close to your body.

Start Out Slow In Single Cycle Mode

Once you have read everything there is on air nailer safety, it is time to get to work. Start out slow by working in single cycle mode. In this setting, you are only releasing one nail at a time, allowing you to get a feel for the workings of the pneumatic nail gun. From there, you may graduate to the sequential mode, which makes these tools so speedy.

Don't Circumvent the Contact Trigger

If your air gun is equipped with a contact trigger, you must release the manual trigger at the same time that the tip of your air nailer touches the target location for applying nails. Sure, you could shave a few hundreds of a second off your work by keeping a manual trigger depressed and using the contact trigger as the sole means of controlling the nail application, but in so doing you risk injury, mistakes, and also ricochet from the accidental touching of the tip to stone.

Never Use a Trigger Lock

According to the CDC, these trigger locks are designed for the rapid continuation of the air nailer, but it also takes away your control of the tool. Quoting the CDC, in the four year span between 2001 and 2005, an average 14,800 consumers were seen annually for nail gun injuries. This adds to the yearly average of 22,200 laborers also injured. You might save time by using a trigger lock; then again, you might seriously fall behind schedule due to a hospital visit or stay.

Use the Nails Made for the Air Nailer

Don't jury-rig the nail gun's feeder system. Use only the type and size of nails specifically made for your model of pneumatic nail gun.

A Review of the Bostitch MIIIFS Flooring Stapler

If you need to install hardwood flooring, then you will need a stapler designed especially for the task. The Bostitch MIIIFS is a pneumatic flooring stapler perfect for installing hardwood flooring. This stapler measures 17 inches long and weighs only 11 pounds. You can find it at an average price of $450. Let's take a look at some of the other features offered by this flooring nailer.

The Bostitch MIIIFS is designed to fire 15-gauge staples. It is relatively versatile as it can use either 1 1/2 or 2-inch staples. Also, the tool can hold up to 92 staples at a time. The Bostitch MIIIFS is fitted with a 3/8-inch air inlet. The stapler is designed to operate between a pressure of 60 and 100 pounds per square inch.

The Bostitch MIIIFS features high-speed mallet actuated pneumatic operation. This is much more productive than using manual methods to drive staples into hardwood flooring. This design is capable of providing 420 inch-pounds of driving force. The Bostitch MIIIFS is also designed to drive staples at the proper angle and depth to prevent damage to the surface. You can also adjust it to accommodate different tongue positions and materials of different thicknesses.

You will also appreciate the composite base plates included with the Bostitch MIIIFS. These plates allow you to install 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch bases. These base plates are designed to provide additional stability. The Bostitch MIIIFS is also equipped with a long-reach handle for extra control and comfort. You also have the option of using a shorter handle.

The Bostitch MIIIFS measures three inches wide and 17 inches long. It weighs only 11 pounds, so it shouldn't be too much for you to carry around for big projects. In addition to the base plates, the package for the Bostitch MIIIFS also includes the graphite mallet used to operate the stapler.

If you need to add a flooring stapler to your arsenal of tools, then you should consider buying the Bostitch MIIIFS. The high-speed mallet actuated pneumatic operation can provide up to 420 inch-pounds of driving force. Also, the Bostitch MIIIFS is packaged with 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch base plates to provide additional stability. You will also appreciate the versatility offered by the stapler as it can accept either 1 1/2-inch or 2-inch staples.

Field of the Solenoid Valve Invention

The present invention generally relates to control solenoid valve and, more particularly, relates to a control solenoid valve capable of reducing the energy consumption thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As is well known in the art, control valves have frequently been used to control and supply a working fluid, such as air, to a working device. Typically, these control valves employ a moveable valve spool disposed in a valve housing. The valve housing includes a plurality of fluid passages that are selectively interconnected in response to movement of the valve spool so as to control the flow of the fluid and, thus, the output of the control valve.

Conventional control valves often employ a solenoid valve mounted thereto for actuating the valve spool. The solenoid valve is controlled via an electrical input signal between a first position, where the solenoid valve is de-energized so as to close a fluid passage between an input pilot pressure and an output controlling pressure, and a second position, where the solenoid is energized via the electrical input so as to open a passageway between the input pilot pressure and the output controlling pressure.

It should be readily appreciated to one skilled in the art that in order to apply a constant controlling pressure, the electrical control signal must continue to energize the solenoid valve. That is, in order for a conventional control valve to maintain the spool in a predetermined position, it is necessary to maintain a constant control pressure upon one side of the spool. Therefore, in order to maintain this constant control pressure on the spool, it is necessary to maintain the solenoid valve in an opened and, thus, energized state. Moreover, it is necessary to employ full line fluid pressure to actuate the spool into the predetermined positions. Therefore, it should be understood that if it is preferred that the control valve be in this predetermined position for fluid output, electrical energy consumption to drive compressors to supply full line pressure will increase.

Accordingly, there exists a need in the relevant art to provide a control valve capable of producing an output of working fluid to be used with a conventional working device that is capable of minimizing the energy consumed during actuation. Furthermore, there exists a need in the relevant art to provide a control valve that maintains the position of a control element at a pressure less than full line pressure. Still further, there exists a need in the relevant art to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A control valve system having an advantageous construction is provided. The control valve system includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A feedback passage extends between the first output and the valve so as to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve system according to a first embodiment of the present invention illustrated in a normal operation mode where the solenoid valve assembly is energized;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 1 wherein the solenoid valve assembly is de-energized;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 1 being maintained in a predetermined position while the solenoid valve assembly remains de-energized and the valve spool is in an equilibrium position;

FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram illustrating the control valve system according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve system according to a second embodiment of the present invention illustrated in an initial position where the first and second solenoid valve assemblies are de-energized and the piston is stationary;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 5 wherein the first solenoid valve assembly is energized and the second solenoid valve assembly is de-energized;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 5 wherein the first and second solenoid valve assemblies are de-energized and the piston continues to extend;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 5 wherein the first solenoid valve assembly is de-energized and the second solenoid valve assembly is energized;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 5 wherein the first and second solenoid valve assemblies are de-energized and the piston continues to retract;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the control valve system of FIG. 5 wherein the first and second solenoid valve assemblies are de-energized and the piston is stationary;

FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram illustrating the control valve system according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of a control valve system according to a third embodiment of the present invention illustrated in an initial position where the solenoid valve assembly is de-energized and the piston is stationary;

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the feedback passage being disposed externally from the housing; and

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the feedback passage being disposed internally in the housing.

The description of the solenoid valve invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Solenoid valve for reduced energy consumption

A control solenoid valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control solenoid valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output.

A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A feedback passage extends between the first output and the valve so as to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A control valve system comprising:

A housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output;

A valve positionable in at least a first position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said first output, a second position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said second output, and a third position where fluid communication is generally prevented between said inlet and said first output or said second output, said valve being biased into said first position;

A solenoid valve assembly coupled in fluid communication with said inlet, said solenoid valve assembly being positionable in an actuated position where fluid communication is established with said inlet to move said valve from said first position to said second position and a deactuated position; and a feedback passage extending between said first output and said valve so as to position said valve in said third position in response to fluid pressure within said first output, wherein said feedback passage extends from said first output, through said solenoid valve assembly, and into said valve only when said solenoid valve assembly is in said deactuated position.

2. The control valve system according to claim 1 wherein said solenoid valve assembly is biased into said deactuated position.

3. The control valve system according to claim 1 wherein said feedback passage is disposed within said housing.

4. The control valve system according to claim 1 wherein said feedback passage is disposed outside of said housing.

5. A control valve system comprising:

A housing having an inlet, a first output, a second output, and a valve chamber;

A spool slidably disposed in said valve chamber, said spool being positionable in a first position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said first output, a second position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said second output, and a third position where fluid communication is generally prevented between said inlet and said first output or said second output, said spool being biased into said first position;

A first solenoid valve assembly coupled in fluid communication with said inlet, said first solenoid valve assembly being positionable in an actuated position where fluid communication is established between said inlet to said spool to move said spool from said first position to said second position and a deactuated position;

A first shuttle valve disposed in fluid communication with said first output and said second output, said first shuttle valve being positionable in at least a first position where fluid communication is established between said first output and a first shuttle valve outlet and a second position where fluid communication is established between said second output and said first shuttle valve outlet;

And a second shuttle valve disposed in fluid communication with said first shuttle valve outlet, said first solenoid valve assembly, and said valve chamber, said second shuttle valve being positionable in at least a first position where fluid communication is established between said first shuttle valve outlet and said valve chamber and a second position where fluid communication is established between said first solenoid valve assembly and said valve chamber,

Whereby said first shuttle valve and said second shuttle valve cooperate to selectively provide fluid pressure against said spool to position said spool into said third position.

6. The control valve system according to claim 5, further comprising: a second solenoid valve assembly coupled in fluid communication with said second output, said second solenoid valve assembly being positionable in an actuated position where fluid communication is established between said second output and a vent and a deactuated position preventing fluid communication between said second output and said vent.

7. The control valve system according to claim 6, further comprising: a restrictor disposed between said second output and said second solenoid valve assembly.

8. A control valve system comprising:

A housing having an inlet, a first output, a second output, and a valve chamber;

A spool slidably disposed in said valve chamber, said spooi being positionable in a first position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said first output, a second position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said second output, and a third position where fluid communication is generally prevented between said inlet and said first output or said second output;

A solenoid valve assembly coupled in fluid communication with said inlet, said solenoid valve assembly being positionable in an actuated position where fluid communication is established between said inlet and said spool to move said spool from said first position to said second position and a deactuated position; and

A feedback passage extending between said first output and said valve chamber so as to position said spool in said third position in response to fluid pressure within said first output, wherein said feedback passage extends from said first output, through said solenoid valve assembly, and into said valve chamber only when said solenoid valve assembly is in said deactuated position.

9. The control solenoid valve system according to claim 8 wherein said solenoid valve assembly is biased into said deactuated position.

10. The control solenoid valve system according to claim 8 wherein said feedback passage is disposed within said housing.

11. The control solenoid valve system according to claim 8 wherein said feedback passage is disposed outside of said housing.

Ecological Vehicles, Pneumatic Motors for Air Powered Cars & More

Air Powered Cars, Eco-friendly and Cheap to Keep.There is nothing new about pneumatic motors and air powered cars, the idea for pneumatic motors for use in ecological vehicles and air powered cars has been around since 1687.

The first ecological vehicle using pneumatic technology was a locomotive that was operational by the end of the 19th century, it was the precursor for the technology being used today to develop ecological vehicles with air powered motors. No gas use, no pollution, little to no fuel costs.

Designers of pneumatic motors were looking to the future of ecological vehicles with the use of use of thermodynamics as early as 1872. The pneumatic motors designers implemented boilers in the pneumatic motors of the locomotive to heat the air and enable the locomotive to travel greater distances between air fill-ups.

In 1889, two-stage pneumatic motors were introduced, which enabled the air powered locomotive to travel even farther between air fill-ups and allowed for urban transportation via ecological vehicles to begin.

Charles B. Hodges was the first person to invent and sell air powered cars. These ecological vehicles were marketed by the H.K. Porter Company and sold to the U.S. mining industry. Air powered cars presented no safety threats to the mines or miners.

In 1932 the first print advertisement appeared for air powered cars. The ad touts air powered car as having 'four fuel tanks which will drive the car 500 miles at 35 miles per hour. The engine requires no cooling system, no ignition system, no carburetor, nor the hundreds of moving parts in a standard gasoline motor.' The story which accompanies the advertisement for air powered cars goes on to gives details of how air powered cars debuted in Los Angeles and 'whizzed around city streets at not one cent of cost to the driver'.

That is an old technology well worth revisiting, the ability to drive ecological vehicles that do not cost the driver one cent to operate.

After the second world war, pneumatic motors, air engines, air powered cars or any other like term describing the technology was shunned and on rare occasions when the technology of pneumatic motors was mentioned, a disclaimer was added that pneumatic motors were inefficient and of little use. Pressure from oil companies and the push towards gasoline engines instead of air powered cars brought about this sudden disinterest and disassociation from the ecological vehicles with pneumatic motors.

The oil shortage of the 1970's brought about a change in attitude, and the old technology of pneumatic motors was revisited, with Terry Miller developing an air powered car in 1979. Terry Miller built his Air Car One for $1,500, showing the world that ecological vehicles, air powered cars, were a feasible solution to the oil crunch. Miller patented his pneumatic motors method in 1983.

Developments are currently underway in the automotive industry to design and build new air powered cars that will meet today's needs, using this old technology whose ground work has been laid since 1687.

Air powered cars, pneumatic motors, ecological vehicles. These are not new terms that have recently arose with the rising gas prices, they are an old technology revisited.

Five Tips for Buying Pneumatic Hammer Drills

Pneumatic hammer drills combine the rotation of regular drills with a hammering action. This gives them the ability to create holes in masonry easily. If you want to buy one of these drills, there are a few things you will need to consider. This article will give you a few tips for buying pneumatic hammer drills.

Depth Rod

You should always buy pneumatic hammer drills that have a depth rod. This rod is mounted on the side of the drill. The depth rods used on pneumatic hammer drills will let you know when you have reached your desired depth.

Speed

Another thing you need to consider when buying pneumatic hammer drills is speed. You should always get one that will allow you to change speeds. This is useful because it will allow you to adjust the speed for specific jobs. When you need to create small holes, you will need faster speeds. However, when you use pneumatic hammer drills to create larger holes, you will need to use a lower speed.

Reverse

You should always buy pneumatic hammer drills that has a reverse function. The bits used in these drills can easily get stuck in the masonry work. Pneumatic hammer drills with a reverse function will allow you to remove bits that are stuck and hard to get out.

Handle

Another thing to look for is pneumatic hammer drills with a side handle. This handle will allow you to use your other hand to hold the tool while you're drilling. This will give you more control over the drill. You should look for handles that can easily be removed. This will allow you to use the pneumatic hammer drills in tight areas.

Drive System

One of the final things you need to consider when buying pneumatic hammer drills is the drive system. There are two types of drive systems available, namely SDS and SDS max. The SDS systems will allow the bit to slide into the chuck of the tool, which will enhance the hammering action. SDS max systems are available in larger sizes and have larger shanks than SDS bits.

You should always look for one with a depth rod so you'll know when you have reached your desired depth. Also, you should look for pneumatic hammer drills that have a reverse function and a handle so you will have more control over the drill.

Five Types of Pneumatic Nailers

Pneumatic nails can be used for many different reasons. What you plan on doing with this tool will determine that type that you need. Some of the main types include finish, framing, flooring, and brad. This article will discuss some of the different types of pneumatic nailers.

Finish

One of the first types is the finishing nailer. These pneumatic nailers are light and are made for using with delicate furniture, molding, and cabinets. They shoot nails that are stronger and longer than those used in brad nailers. Finishing pneumatic nailers also shoot nails with special heads that can be hidden with putty.

Brad

One of the next types of pneumatic nailers is the brad design. They are are also lightweight and are ideal to use when you are working with thinner materials. These pneumatic nailers deliver nails with extreme precision and delicacy. However, they are not very strong, so you may find it necessary to use wood glue with them.

Framing

There are also framing pneumatic nailers. These tools are incredibly powerful and are designed to drive large nails into thicker materials. Framing nailers can shoot nails from two to four inches long. These pneumatic nailers are used when you need speed and power when working with large materials. They are perfect for building docks, homes, and garages.

Roofing

As the name suggests, roofing pneumatic nailers are used for roof applications. They are specifically designed to nail down shingles on your roof. If you rarely work with shingles, then you will definitely need to get one of the other types of pneumatic nailers.

Palm

One of the final types of pneumatic nailers is the palm design. They are designed to fit in the palm of your hand. These don't load with a coil or strip of nails. Instead, you can only load one nail at a time by attaching it to a magnetic guide. These pneumatic nailers are ideal for confined areas that won't accommodate larger designs.

These are some of the different types of pneumatic nailers. Finishing nailers are light and made for working with cabinets, molding, and furniture. Framing pneumatic nailers are designed to drive large nails into thicker materials. They are incredibly fast and powerful and are perfect for building homes and garages. If you need a nailer that is small enough to use in confined areas, you should get a palm design. However, you will only be able to load one nail at a time.

Tips for Buying Pneumatic Nailers

Pneumatic nailers are handy when you need to drive a lot of nails and don't feel like using a hammer. There are a few things you need to consider before buying one of these tools. Some of these include trigger, magazine, depth, and size. This article will give you a few tips for buying pneumatic nailers.

Trigger

One of the first things you need to consider when buying pneumatic nailers is the trigger. Bump-fire triggers allow you to hold down the trigger then bump the tool where you want to drive the nail. Other designs will fire a nail as soon as you pull the trigger. However, they are very fast and you can easily drive two nails accidentally. You should also look for pneumatic nailers that have large triggers that you can easily work with gloves on.

Depth

You will also need to consider depth when buying pneumatic nailers. Sooner or later, you will likely need to change the depth that you are driving the nails. Therefore, you should look for pneumatic nailers that can easily adjust the depth. This is especially important when working with finishes.

Magazine

One of the next things you need to consider when buying pneumatic nailers is the magazine type. You can have either a stick or coil magazine. Stick magazines can hold up to 40 nails in a long strip. Coil magazines can hold up to 350 nails in a long flexible strip of coil that is wound up. Pneumatic nailers with a coil magazine will be more expensive. However, they are more maneuverable because there is no stick of nails poking out.

Size

You should also consider size when buying pneumatic nailers. Nails can come in many different sizes, so you likely won't be using one size all of the time. Therefore, you should always buy pneumatic nailers that will accept different nail sizes. They can easily be adjusted to accommodate nails of different sizes.

Jams

Pneumatic nailers have a tendency to jam. Therefore, you should always buy a design that will give you easy access to the nail feed. This will allow you to fix the pneumatic nailers easily when they jam up. If you don't have easy access to the feed, it can take a long time to fix a jam.

These are a few tips for buying pneumatic nailers. Some triggers require you to bump the nailer whenever you want to drive a nail, while others will release them as soon as you pull the trigger. You should also look to buy pneumatic nailers that allow you to change the depth that you drive the nails.

What is a Pneumatic Tool and Used For

Have you ever heard of a pneumatic tool, but wondered what in the world it is or how it is used? Essentially, it is a jack hammer, and it is used for many things. They come in all sizes and serve many useful purposes.

A pneumatic tool is a tool whose action is derived from the action of compressed air. Pneumatic tools perform both heavy and light tasks and can be used in many operations. Pneumatic grinders, riveting hammers, caulking and chipping hammers, scaling tools, metal drills, rock drills, wood borers, wrenches, saws, picks, and road rippers are in common use.

Compressed air, at some pressure from 60 to 120 pounds per square inch, is supplied to a pneumatic tool through tough, flexible hosing. The compressed air enters a cylinder with a piston. The compressed air expands and pushes the piston to one end of the cylinder. The expanded air is discharged from the cylinder, and the piston returns to its original position. The flow of air into and out of the cylinder is controlled by valves. As this process repeats, a rapid back-and-forth motion of the piston is produced. The motion of the piston is used to give the necessary motion to the bit, pick, or other tool piece of the pneumatic tool. Many pneumatic tools have more than one cylinder and piston. Two or four cylinders and pistons provide more power and smoother operation than one cylinder and piston.

The earliest pneumatic tools were used by miners as rock drills. Pneumatic tools are still much used in mining operations. Large hammer drills that weigh several hundred pounds and are mounted on frames are used in making tunnels. Smaller hammer drills that can be carried and held in position by a man are used for drilling out ore and for other purposes.

Pneumatic picks and road rippers are used to cut or break up concrete roads and sidewalks. Pneumatic spades are used for digging trenches and ditches. Pneumatic hammers are used to pack earth, sand, or gravel firmly in place.

Many pneumatic tools are used in factories and machine and repair shops. Riveting hammers, scaling hammers, chipping hammers, and portable metal drills are some commonly used tools. Riveting hammers that drive in rivets by direct pressure strike 1,000 to 2,000 blows per minute. Another type of riveting hammer, called a valveless hammer, gives very light, rapid blows. Scaling hammers are used to remove paint or incrustation from surfaces.