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that sucker is slick!
I'd really like to know more about this system because this is where I'm at as well. The cyclones don't have enough storage but plenty of suction for a small shop, and I want to blow into a wagon instead of dumping barrels. I was just thinking of this idea the other day, except that I didn't know how to get them to open alternatively like you did. For those out there that are more tech savy, is there an electronic way to get these gates to open, possibly with relays? I'd really like more pictures and info. Thanks
I would NEVER critique another man's genius. This setup looks like it would work very well. However, why not just use continuous-duty solenoid valves and skip the motor, micro switches and assorted linkage to operate the air cylinders?
Where did you get the blast gates? I found pneumatic gates online for about $300 each for a 4". Or did you make your own?
I like to concept a lot!
When I built this a few years back I just need to make sure it was going to work and get the timing right on the cycle times. Then when I had time I was going to replace the mechanical timer with a electronic timer system. If it's not broke don't fix it.
Al, I do have solenoid valves to run the air cylinders, You still need a timer control to set the on-off times of the valves.
Jan, I ran in to the same problem you had, they want a arm and leg for air operated valves. I bought standard 8" blast gates and added 4 air cylinders to run the gates.You want to get the gates that pass all the way threw so the dust does not get packed in to the gate and will stop them from closing all the way.
Also on the gates I have a safety switch to not let both gates open at the same time if something gets stuck in one.
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the purpose of this airlock?
Richard, the boys will correct me on this if I am wrong, but the air lock is designed to pass material (chips/dust) without allowing any back pressure. So, we want to blow chips to the outside world, but don't want any air to travel back up through the cyclone. If this were to happen, chips would get into the filters. This is not typically a problem when using a sealed barrel to contain chips.
Update:
I spent this weekend redoing the timer controls for the gates.
Brian, Thank you for responding on the overall setup...
The cyclone is ABOVE the air lock and when the dust/chips settle on the bottom of it.... the airlock opens the top gate and allows debris to enter the airlock... when the bottom gate opens, the exhaust fan blows it outside and only takes a very small amount of inside air with it...
Saves energy by keeping the conditioned inside air inside except for a very small amount...
