automationdirect

AutomationDirect has added a variety of new NITRA push-to-connect fittings. These fittings feature durable nickel-plated brass bodies, threads, and release sleeves. They have a maximum pressure rating of 300 psi and can withstand temperatures up to 175℉. Numerous fitting styles have been added, including male straight fittings, male elbows, branch tees, union straight fittings, union […]

AutomationDirect has added hydraulic power units (HPUs), heat exchangers for HPUs, and hydraulic solenoid valves from Bucher Hydraulics. Hydraulic power units contain a reservoir, pump/motor, filter, and all necessary controls to power a hydraulic system. They are offered in the single-phase powered M-series and three-phase powered T-series models. A T-series dual-flow, dual-pressure model is also…

AutomationDirect has added NITRA CPS9E series cylinder position switches which are compact general-purpose switches designed to detect the position of a pneumatic cylinder’s magnetic piston. This feedback can be used by a control system to determine cylinder position, cycle count, and to confirm operation.   These switches are manufactured specifically to fit into extruded or […]

Machinery builders and OEMs save space and improve functionality by applying electro-pneumatic I/O and solenoid systems throughout their equipment. By: Chip McDaniel, AutomationDirect For machine builders and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) alike, there is an increasing push to deliver smarter, more modular, and physically compact systems. Among the many design choices required to make this […]

AutomationDirect has added Metal Work Regtronic series electro-pneumatic transducers that utilize two internal solenoid valves to convert an electronic signal from a PLC or other controller to a regulated precision linear pneumatic output pressure. This dual solenoid design eliminates continuous supply air consumption, reducing operational costs. Regtronic transducers feature a maximum output pressure range up […]

Vacuum gripper technologies provide many advantages for machine and OEM payload handling. Designers find that modular gripper system kits are a versatile and rapid way to create handling solutions, with other benefits such as internal vacuum routing. By Pat Phillips, AutomationDirect Manufacturing equipment, pick-and-place systems, robotics, and other machinery typically need to reliably grip products, […]

AutomationDirect proudly enters the hydraulic components market with the addition of quality Peninsular hydraulic cylinders to their comprehensive line of automation products. These double-acting cylinders are interchangeable with other popular brands of NFPA hydraulic cylinders, are offered with bore sizes from 1-1/2 to 4 in., stroke lengths up to 24 in., and tapped end caps…

AutomationDirect has added new pressure sensing accessories from Winters. These accessories will protect delicate pressure measurement equipment from damage caused by pressure surges, superheated media, and more. Included in the new product release are siphons that protect pressure gauges, transmitters, and switches from the effects of high-temperature media such as steam. New pressure snubbers protect…

AutomationDirect has added new stainless steel linear variable inductance transducers (LVITs) from Alliance Sensors Group to its growing line of linear position sensors. These sensors convert the linear displacement of an object into a proportional analog output of 0 to 10 VDC or 4 to 20mA (depending on model). The compact LZ13 series has a…

AutomationDirect now offers a selection of pneumatic vacuum grippers and related parts from Schmalz, widely used in pick-and-place applications. Vacuum products are an efficient means of moving products large, small, and of varying sizes. This lineup includes suction cups in a flat style up to 60 mm in diameter made of Elastodur; bellowed style cups […]

Distributed automation options have been improving for many years. Networked electro-pneumatic solenoid banks give machine builders smart and convenient choices. Kevin Kakascik, Technical Marketing Engineer, AutomationDirect Most automated machines and systems incorporate some number of enclosures and panels for housing controls components. However, these centralized devices typically must interconnect with many more field sensors and […]

The NITRA Pneumatic Automation Link (PAL) series of components from AutomationDirect is a versatile field I/O system that can include electrical I/O or pneumatic valves, or a combination of both. The system can be controlled either by an Ethernet/IP master or direct wiring (for exclusively pneumatic valves). All components are rated IP65, intended to be […]

The NITRA pneumatic product line now includes the D2-Series double-acting, NFPA heavy-duty tie rod air cylinders ideal for use where abusive conditions exist. These pneumatic air cylinders have a 250 psi operating pressure and are interchangeable with other popular brands. New models are available with and without adjustable cushions to provide end-of-stroke deceleration at both […]

Designers requiring linear motion should consider rodless cylinders to realize compact packaging and other benefits for pneumatic actuation, without the cost of electrically-driven options. Contributed by Kevin Kakascik, Technical Marketing Engineer, AutomationDirect Machine and equipment automation projects — whether performed by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), a systems integrator (SI), or the capital projects group at […]

Linear Variable Inductance Transducers (LVITs) from Alliance Sensors Group convert the linear displacement of an object into a proportional electrical signal output of 0-10 V or 4-20 mA (depending on model). LVITs are contactless devices designed for dimension or position measuring applications where the sensing element cannot be attached to the object being measured. LVITs […]

Here are some tips to properly identify pneumatic fitting and component sizes when working on or retrofitting existing older machines. Contributed by Kevin Kakascik, Technical Marketing Engineer, AutomationDirect It’s just another typical day in your operations office, located right off the manufacturing floor. Demand for the company’s product is very high and the entire production […]

NITRA L-series rodless air cylinders from AutomationDirect offer a robust design in a compact package. Rodless cylinders can offer the same stroke as rodded cylinders in a smaller space. Rodless cylinders have the piston connected to a carriage that rides outside the extruded cylinder wall, reducing overall length, making them ideal for small or tight […]

ProSense FG1 series mechanical variable area flow meters from AutomationDirect provide visual indication of flow rate for water or petroleum-based fluids. These meters provide ±5% full-scale accuracy and a repeatability of ±1%, important for cyclical applications requiring consistent readings. Two adjustable flow limit pointers are available to provide preset indication of high, low, or normal […]

Pneumatic grippers are a common and useful way for machines to handle product and other items, but they must be properly selected to match the payload. Pat Phillips, PE, Product Manager for AutomationDirect, Fluid Power and Mechanical Product Div. Prior to the industrial revolution, grippers used in manufacturing were human hands and simple implements. Automation […]

The NITRA pneumatic AC series of coalescing air filters from AutomationDirect allows finer removal of moisture, vapor and oil mist from compressed air applications to provide optimal performance for pneumatic systems and components. NITRA coalescing filters are available in a range of port sizes from 1/8 to 1/2 in. FNPT; replaceable 0.3-micron filter elements are […]

AutomationDirect has released a new guide in eBook format entitled “Pneumatics: A Practical Guide” which discusses a wide range of pneumatics topics including circuit symbols, component capability, integrating pneumatics with controls and improving pneumatic efficiency. This updated eBook is intended for users who want to broaden their knowledge of pneumatic components, circuits and systems. Specific […]

Pneumatic actuators are essential workhorses for machine and equipment motion. Here are some pointers about different styles for control and monitoring. Contributed by Pat Phillips, Product Manager, Fluid Power and Mechanical Product Division, AutomationDirect Pneumatic actuators are commonly used in countless types of equipment and machinery because they provide a simple, cost-effective and durable way […]

For use with air and compatible non-combustible gases, ProSense® DGA differential pressure gauges are used to measure and display difference in air pressure between two reference points in inches of water. Applications include air/gas flow indication, filter monitoring, cabinet purging, room positive or negative pressure status and more. These high-quality gauges feature an industrial grade…

NITRA GVP series pneumatic miniature solenoid valves from AutomationDirect are an excellent choice for many automation applications with low flow requirements. These two- and three-port valves are typically used for on/off flow control or with single-acting cylinders. Starting at $26.00, GVP series 12 or 24 Vdc solenoid valves are available in 10 and 15mm valve […]

A new hybrid PVC/rubber hose introduced by AutomationDirect is suitable for air and water use. The NITRA Hybrid PVC hose is a blend of PVC and rubber with a polyester braided reinforcement. The PVC gives light weight, color stability and hardness for higher working pressures while the rubber gives improved flexibility and operating temperature range. […]