NewsNewsletterNewsletter

Newsletter: Volume 16 – Issue 8

In this issue of AutomationDirect.com’s newsletter you will find the latest product news on our new Productiv3000 serial communication module, our new low-cost QM series photo sensors, and our most recent NITRA pneumatic line extension. Plus check out some awesome application stories. Also its never to early to start getting ready for Halloween! We will show you how to build your own pneumatic Halloween prop.

Automation ‘Lifts’ Purdue Theater Production of Medea 

When the Department of Theatre at Purdue University decided to stage a production of Medea, Richard Dionne (Production Manager and Technical Director) and his students seized a great opportunity for some “stage magic”. They knew it would take some shrewd engineering to make an actor “fly” on stage during a performance. Read the application story>>

Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Pneumatic Systems

Pneumatic systems are considered to be inherently inefficient. However, Pat Phillips explains how these systems can be optimized to not only improve energy efficiency, but enhance productivity and lengthen the life of the machine. By reevaluating system requirements and determining the right components to use, plants can save money and increase productivity.Read Entire Article>>

Pneumatic Cylinder Design Factors

Pneumatic systems are widely used in industrial automation for many reasons. They’re durable, clean, affordable, and fairly easy to install and maintain. Properly sizing the cylinders and related components prevents damage, improves performance, and cuts cost. In the April, 2014 issue of Hydraulics & Pneumatics magazine, Pat Phillips provides tips to consider whedesigning your pneumatics application.Read the article>>



New Serial Communications Module for the Productivity3000 
 


Just Added! New Low-cost QM series photo sensors 



More NITRA AVS pneumatic solenoid valves
starting at $18.

DIY Halloween Pneumatic Props

So, have you started planning your creepy, scary, or horrifyingly haunting Halloween displays yet? Want to raise the fear factor by breathing life into your undead props? Take a look at our short four-part YouTube video series where Shane teaches you how to build a DIY Halloween pneumatic creation step by step.Watch DIY Videos>>

The Lighter Side – Punkin’ Chunkin’….sort of

In keeping with the fall theme, you can’t forget about “Punkin Chunkin” competitions. From spring-loaded trebuchets to major air-powered cannons, you never know what you will see as the preferred sophisticated squash-shooting system. However, not all forms of pumpkin-pelting prototypes passed testing. For example, maybe builders of this gigantic gourd gun should have used pressure sensors and gauges from AutomationDirect.Watch the video>>