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Low cost water valve? Where to buy... — Parallax Forums

Low cost water valve? Where to buy...

ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
edited 2002-11-27 13:20 in General Discussion
I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.

The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.


Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow

TIA

Comments

  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 03:11
    Depends on the flow of water you want, the available pressure to
    shoot the water. In your case you may be able to live with cheap
    homemade leaky valves,,,valves are expensive due to thier
    reliablility and sealing capacity,,but you don't quite need all that.
    For example,,,Toilet float/lever valves seal against city pressure,
    about 30psi,,,you could take a cheap soleniod by itself and
    mechanically hook it up to the lever of the toiled valve,,,using the
    a cheap solenoid that does not have much force action in conjunction
    with a lever arm ,,may produce the action you want for a cheap
    price,,,but the valve assembly may be leaky,,but that should not
    bother you if all this is in a pool....
    Ray

    --- In basicstamps@y..., "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...> wrote:
    > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water
    jets
    > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    >
    > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    >
    >
    > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    >
    > TIA
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 04:22
    How cheap? I've found $80 valves ; I helped a frieind use the BS2 and a
    couple of solenoid valves to control a hydrolysis chamber which collected
    H / O in separate chambers, then ignited them. If you find extremely
    cheap valves, I'd be pretty interested, since I've had interest for a
    while in microprocessor-controlled LP burns.


    On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, kvasilak wrote:

    > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    >
    > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    >
    >
    > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    >
    > TIA
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and Body
    of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >

    Sean T. Lamont, Chief Mad Scientist |-- lamont@a...
    Zen Chemical Productions |-- http://www.zenchemical.com
    Fabricators of Unnecessary Amazement
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 06:02
    ASCO makes a good line of solenoid valves, the 8210G2 is 1/2" NPT Normally
    Closed

    Original Message
    From: "Sean T. Lamont .lost." <lamont@a...>
    To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Monday, November 25, 2002 9:22 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    >
    > How cheap? I've found $80 valves ; I helped a frieind use the BS2 and a
    > couple of solenoid valves to control a hydrolysis chamber which collected
    > H / O in separate chambers, then ignited them. If you find extremely
    > cheap valves, I'd be pretty interested, since I've had interest for a
    > while in microprocessor-controlled LP burns.
    >
    >
    > On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, kvasilak wrote:
    >
    > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > >
    > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > >
    > >
    > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > >
    > > TIA
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    and Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
    >
    > Sean T. Lamont, Chief Mad Scientist |-- lamont@a...
    > Zen Chemical Productions |-- http://www.zenchemical.com
    > Fabricators of Unnecessary Amazement
    >
    >
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and
    Body of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 14:34
    I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap and
    easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.

    However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    seperate main relay.

    Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the back
    emf when you switch.

    There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids

    Regards,

    Tony Wells

    Original Message
    From: "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...>
    To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    >
    > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    >
    >
    > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    >
    > TIA
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and
    Body of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 14:44
    Oh, I also forgot, you can also recover a used water cut-off solenoid from
    scrap automatic washing machines.

    Someone on the list might have an old washing machine in their back yard
    they can send you...

    Be carefull with electricity and water - they don't mix well!

    Regards,

    Tony
    Original Message
    From: <tony.wells@a...>
    To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:34 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap
    and
    > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    >
    > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    > seperate main relay.
    >
    > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the back
    > emf when you switch.
    >
    > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony Wells
    >
    >
    Original Message
    > From: "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...>
    > To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > >
    > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > >
    > >
    > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > >
    > > TIA
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    and
    > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
    >
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 15:43
    Electronics goldmine has a liquid shutoff valve for a buck.

    http://sales.goldmine-elec.com/prodinfo.asp?prodid=3051

    Jason


    --- In basicstamps@y..., "Greg Reyneke" <greg@i...> wrote:
    > ASCO makes a good line of solenoid valves, the 8210G2 is 1/2" NPT
    Normally
    > Closed
    >
    >
    Original Message
    > From: "Sean T. Lamont .lost." <lamont@a...>
    > To: <basicstamps@y...>
    > Sent: Monday, November 25, 2002 9:22 PM
    > Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > >
    > > How cheap? I've found $80 valves ; I helped a frieind use the BS2
    and a
    > > couple of solenoid valves to control a hydrolysis chamber which
    collected
    > > H / O in separate chambers, then ignited them. If you find
    extremely
    > > cheap valves, I'd be pretty interested, since I've had interest
    for a
    > > while in microprocessor-controlled LP burns.
    > >
    > >
    > > On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, kvasilak wrote:
    > >
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns
    water jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get
    spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda
    slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject
    > and Body of the message will be ignored.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    > http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > > >
    > > >
    > > >
    > >
    > > Sean T. Lamont, Chief Mad Scientist |-- lamont@a...
    > > Zen Chemical Productions |--
    http://www.zenchemical.com
    > > Fabricators of Unnecessary Amazement
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject and
    > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 16:17
    McMaster Carr has some 1/4"-3/8" valves for $38 and some 1/8" valves for $17.
    Both are pretty good and are available in DC or AC versions.
    http://www.mcmaster.com/ Goto page process control then solenoid valves then
    page 375. Grainger also has some for $60 or so.
    Original Message
    From: Sean T. Lamont .lost.
    To: basicstamps@yahoogroups.com
    Sent: Monday, November 25, 2002 8:22 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...



    How cheap? I've found $80 valves ; I helped a frieind use the BS2 and a
    couple of solenoid valves to control a hydrolysis chamber which collected
    H / O in separate chambers, then ignited them. If you find extremely
    cheap valves, I'd be pretty interested, since I've had interest for a
    while in microprocessor-controlled LP burns.


    On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, kvasilak wrote:

    > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    >
    > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    >
    >
    > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    >
    > TIA
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and
    Body of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >

    Sean T. Lamont, Chief Mad Scientist |-- lamont@a...
    Zen Chemical Productions |-- http://www.zenchemical.com
    Fabricators of Unnecessary Amazement




    To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and Body
    of the message will be ignored.


    Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/





    [noparse][[/noparse]Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 17:13
    Try you local Appliance part store for a dish washer's valve.
    tony.wells@a... wrote:Oh, I also forgot, you can also recover a used
    water cut-off solenoid from
    scrap automatic washing machines.

    Someone on the list might have an old washing machine in their back yard
    they can send you...

    Be carefull with electricity and water - they don't mix well!

    Regards,

    Tony
    Original Message
    From:
    To:
    Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:34 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap
    and
    > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    >
    > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    > seperate main relay.
    >
    > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the back
    > emf when you switch.
    >
    > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony Wells
    >
    >
    Original Message
    > From: "kvasilak"
    > To:
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > >
    > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > >
    > >
    > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > >
    > > TIA
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    and
    > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
    >


    To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and Body of
    the message will be ignored.


    Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/




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    Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now

    [noparse][[/noparse]Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 17:42
    You guys have some great ideas!
    Electronic gold mine is new to me and the washer valve idea is gotta
    be cheap...

    --- In basicstamps@y..., noah ioop <ioopn@y...> wrote:
    >
    > Try you local Appliance part store for a dish washer's valve.
    > tony.wells@a... wrote:Oh, I also forgot, you can also recover a
    used water cut-off solenoid from
    > scrap automatic washing machines.
    >
    > Someone on the list might have an old washing machine in their back
    yard
    > they can send you...
    >
    > Be carefull with electricity and water - they don't mix well!
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony
    >
    Original Message
    > From:
    > To:
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:34 PM
    > Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are
    cheap
    > and
    > > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    > >
    > > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually
    involves a
    > > seperate main relay.
    > >
    > > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power
    FET) to
    > > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from
    the back
    > > emf when you switch.
    > >
    > > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and
    solenoids
    > >
    > > Regards,
    > >
    > > Tony Wells
    > >
    > >
    Original Message
    > > From: "kvasilak"
    > > To:
    > > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    > >
    > >
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns
    water jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get
    spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda
    slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject
    > and
    > > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    > http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > > >
    > > >
    > > >
    > >
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject and Body of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >
    >
    >
    > Do you Yahoo!?
    > Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now
    >
    > [noparse][[/noparse]Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 19:47
    Why do you need the FET? I switched a 12V solenoid using a small reed
    relay and a stamp on the +5 control voltage. Have I done a bad thing?

    On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, tony.wells@a... wrote:

    > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap and
    > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    >
    > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    > seperate main relay.
    >
    > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the back
    > emf when you switch.
    >
    > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony Wells
    >
    >
    Original Message
    > From: "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...>
    > To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > >
    > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > >
    > >
    > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > >
    > > TIA
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and
    > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and Body
    of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >

    Sean T. Lamont, CTO / Chief NetNerd, Abstract Software, Inc. (ServNet)
    Seattle - Bellingham - Vancouver - Portland - Everett - Tacoma - Bremerton
    email: lamont@a... WWW: http://www.serv.net
    "Do not fear mistakes, There Are None" - Miles Davis
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 21:22
    Sean Asked:

    > Why do you need the FET? I switched a 12V solenoid using a small reed
    > relay and a stamp on the +5 control voltage. Have I done a bad thing?

    Well Sean,

    The max current sink on a pin is 25mA and source is 20mA. Also generally
    (except for the DS-IC)the max sink on ALL pins is 50mA and sink of 40mA.

    (The above is an abstract from the Stamp FAQ) at:
    http://www.parallax.com/Downloads/Documentation/BASIC%20Stamp%20Frequently%2
    0Asked%20Questions.pdf

    So if you pick your relay * very carefully* it may well not exceed the
    20/25mA limit on a pin. However you may well exceed the overall limit if you
    are driving other things such as LEDs. For switching mains current, think in
    terms of switching 100mA or more.

    I got lazy once and tried switching directly a small 5v reed relay, and it
    was just on the limit both for the pin and on overall pin consumption. After
    about a month of use, the relay stopped operating - the IO pin died. I
    rewired the relay to a spare port, and guess what, the whole stamp died
    after a week.

    Also, did you remember your back-EMF diode?? Otherwise, expect your pin to
    die sooner or later.

    Lastly, you don't *need* a FET, any suitable transistor will do - they are
    just cheap and handy and extremely robust, and I love them.

    Lastly, Lastly, Lastly. For those using processors capable of switching at
    speeds in the MHz region - possibly the Javelin is fast enough - and
    certainly the Rabbit RCM2000/3000 series - there is a little known issue
    when switching at high speeds. At MHz speeds the gate capacitance of a FET
    attached to an IO port puts a significant load on the port. The use of FETs
    with high gate capacitance can cause significant loading on the IO pins.

    Regards,

    Tony
    Original Message
    From: "Sean T. Lamont .lost." <lamont@a...>
    To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 7:47 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    >
    > Why do you need the FET? I switched a 12V solenoid using a small reed
    > relay and a stamp on the +5 control voltage. Have I done a bad thing?
    >
    > On Tue, 26 Nov 2002, tony.wells@a... wrote:
    >
    > > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap
    and
    > > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    > >
    > > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    > > seperate main relay.
    > >
    > > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    > > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the
    back
    > > emf when you switch.
    > >
    > > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids
    > >
    > > Regards,
    > >
    > > Tony Wells
    > >
    > >
    Original Message
    > > From: "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...>
    > > To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    > > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    > >
    > >
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    and
    > > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > > >
    > > >
    > > >
    > >
    > >
    > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    and Body of the message will be ignored.
    > >
    > >
    > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > >
    > >
    > >
    >
    > Sean T. Lamont, CTO / Chief NetNerd, Abstract Software, Inc. (ServNet)
    > Seattle - Bellingham - Vancouver - Portland - Everett - Tacoma - Bremerton
    > email: lamont@a... WWW: http://www.serv.net
    > "Do not fear mistakes, There Are None" - Miles Davis
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
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  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-26 21:25
    Folks, apologies - there is a serious flaw in my previous email.

    I said:
    "and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the back emf when you
    switch"

    I meant to say:
    "and a *DIODE* to protect the semiconductor from the back emf when you
    switch"

    Sorry.

    Tony

    Original Message
    From: <tony.wells@a...>
    To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:44 PM
    Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...


    > Oh, I also forgot, you can also recover a used water cut-off solenoid from
    > scrap automatic washing machines.
    >
    > Someone on the list might have an old washing machine in their back yard
    > they can send you...
    >
    > Be carefull with electricity and water - they don't mix well!
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony
    >
    Original Message
    > From: <tony.wells@a...>
    > To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:34 PM
    > Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are cheap
    > and
    > > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    > >
    > > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually involves a
    > > seperate main relay.
    > >
    > > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power FET) to
    > > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from the
    back
    > > emf when you switch.
    > >
    > > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and solenoids
    > >
    > > Regards,
    > >
    > > Tony Wells
    > >
    > >
    Original Message
    > > From: "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...>
    > > To: <basicstamps@yahoogroups.com>
    > > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    > >
    > >
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject
    > and
    > > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    > http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > > >
    > > >
    > > >
    > >
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the Subject and
    Body of the message will be ignored.
    >
    >
    > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    >
    >
    >
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-27 00:28
    I am surprised that the first question was not "what Cv ?" the flow
    coefficent determins valve size.

    There are a bunch of valve makers, some use white metal bodies, some
    aluminum, plasitc, brass and stainless.

    Once yo uget into the larger valve sizes, they use a pressure assist
    from the pressure supply. That is to say that the solenoid only
    opens a tiny port and that lets the water pressure in and onto a
    large diaphram. That diaphram then opens the main valve. This is
    MUCH cheaper to manufacture than a valve that is totally controled by
    the solenoid.

    These are typically shown with the solenoid being off center of the
    valve a good bit. and as you mentioned, the process is slow enough
    to be noticable.

    Red Lion, Assco, Parker, and similar will offer multiple body
    materials.

    if you are looking for a commercial project, I highly recomned you
    buy new just for the replacemnt availabliity.

    but, for a back yard unit, washing machines offer great valves, and
    cheap, and with standard garden hose connections. and if you live in
    an upscale area, check out the town dump. used washers will abound,
    both clothes and dish. Clothes have 2 valves dish and automatic ice
    makers on refrigerators have one.

    Dave








    --- In basicstamps@y..., "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...> wrote:
    > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water
    jets
    > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    >
    > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get spendy.
    >
    >
    > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda slow
    >
    > TIA
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-27 03:17
    Well the first one here will use whatever I can get cheap, other ones
    will have more design work. I just want something to play with at
    this point.

    --- In basicstamps@y..., "Dave Mucha" <davemucha@j...> wrote:
    > I am surprised that the first question was not "what Cv ?" the
    flow
    > coefficent determins valve size.
    >
    > There are a bunch of valve makers, some use white metal bodies,
    some
    > aluminum, plasitc, brass and stainless.
    >
    > Once yo uget into the larger valve sizes, they use a pressure
    assist
    > from the pressure supply. That is to say that the solenoid only
    > opens a tiny port and that lets the water pressure in and onto a
    > large diaphram. That diaphram then opens the main valve. This is
    > MUCH cheaper to manufacture than a valve that is totally controled
    by
    > the solenoid.
    >
    > These are typically shown with the solenoid being off center of the
    > valve a good bit. and as you mentioned, the process is slow enough
    > to be noticable.
    >
    > Red Lion, Assco, Parker, and similar will offer multiple body
    > materials.
    >
    > if you are looking for a commercial project, I highly recomned you
    > buy new just for the replacemnt availabliity.
    >
    > but, for a back yard unit, washing machines offer great valves, and
    > cheap, and with standard garden hose connections. and if you live
    in
    > an upscale area, check out the town dump. used washers will
    abound,
    > both clothes and dish. Clothes have 2 valves dish and automatic
    ice
    > makers on refrigerators have one.
    >
    > Dave
    >
    >
    >
    >
    >
    >
    >
    >
    > --- In basicstamps@y..., "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...> wrote:
    > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns water
    > jets
    > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > >
    > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get
    spendy.
    > >
    > >
    > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda
    slow
    > >
    > > TIA
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-27 03:39
    It makes sense to play with stuff on the cheap. That is what most of
    us do.

    home depot offer water valves for about $10 each, large volume, but
    as you say, noticable delay. you could add a delay in the music so
    that the signal went 1/4 second before the beat. Believe it or not,
    professional lighting for concerts have a longer dalay so they
    actually switch before the beat to get the light timed to the music.

    Dave



    --- In basicstamps@y..., "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...> wrote:
    > Well the first one here will use whatever I can get cheap, other
    ones
    > will have more design work. I just want something to play with at
    > this point.
    >
    > --- In basicstamps@y..., "Dave Mucha" <davemucha@j...> wrote:
    > > I am surprised that the first question was not "what Cv ?" the
    > flow
    > > coefficent determins valve size.
    > >
    > > There are a bunch of valve makers, some use white metal bodies,
    > some
    > > aluminum, plasitc, brass and stainless.
    > >
    > > Once yo uget into the larger valve sizes, they use a pressure
    > assist
    > > from the pressure supply. That is to say that the solenoid only
    > > opens a tiny port and that lets the water pressure in and onto a
    > > large diaphram. That diaphram then opens the main valve. This
    is
    > > MUCH cheaper to manufacture than a valve that is totally
    controled
    > by
    > > the solenoid.
    > >
    > > These are typically shown with the solenoid being off center of
    the
    > > valve a good bit. and as you mentioned, the process is slow
    enough
    > > to be noticable.
    > >
    > > Red Lion, Assco, Parker, and similar will offer multiple body
    > > materials.
    > >
    > > if you are looking for a commercial project, I highly recomned
    you
    > > buy new just for the replacemnt availabliity.
    > >
    > > but, for a back yard unit, washing machines offer great valves,
    and
    > > cheap, and with standard garden hose connections. and if you live
    > in
    > > an upscale area, check out the town dump. used washers will
    > abound,
    > > both clothes and dish. Clothes have 2 valves dish and automatic
    > ice
    > > makers on refrigerators have one.
    > >
    > > Dave
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > >
    > > --- In basicstamps@y..., "kvasilak" <my427v8@h...> wrote:
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns
    water
    > > jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get
    > spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda
    > slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-27 05:02
    Enough with the water valve!!! this is a stamp forum!


    [noparse][[/noparse]Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
  • ArchiverArchiver Posts: 46,084
    edited 2002-11-27 13:20
    Also try www.allelectronics.com they sell a minitature water pump CAT# PMP-2 for
    US $3.75. Runs off 12VDC. Its a Automobile Windshield water pump.
    kvasilak <my427v8@h...> wrote:You guys have some great ideas!
    Electronic gold mine is new to me and the washer valve idea is gotta
    be cheap...

    --- In basicstamps@y..., noah ioop wrote:
    >
    > Try you local Appliance part store for a dish washer's valve.
    > tony.wells@a... wrote:Oh, I also forgot, you can also recover a
    used water cut-off solenoid from
    > scrap automatic washing machines.
    >
    > Someone on the list might have an old washing machine in their back
    yard
    > they can send you...
    >
    > Be carefull with electricity and water - they don't mix well!
    >
    > Regards,
    >
    > Tony
    >
    Original Message
    > From:
    > To:
    > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:34 PM
    > Subject: Re: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    >
    >
    > > I've used central heating hot water valves for this job. They are
    cheap
    > and
    > > easily obtainable from plumbing suppliers. They last for years.
    > >
    > > However you need to power mains to the unit - so that usually
    involves a
    > > seperate main relay.
    > >
    > > Whatever you use, don't forget you need semething (like a power
    FET) to
    > > switch the solenoid and a relay to protect the semiconductor from
    the back
    > > emf when you switch.
    > >
    > > There are lots of postings here regarding switching relays and
    solenoids
    > >
    > > Regards,
    > >
    > > Tony Wells
    > >
    > >
    Original Message
    > > From: "kvasilak"
    > > To:
    > > Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2002 2:58 AM
    > > Subject: [noparse][[/noparse]basicstamps] Low cost water valve? Where to buy...
    > >
    > >
    > > > I want to build a 'dancing fountian' where the stamp turns
    water jets
    > > > on and off in time to music or just in interesting sequences.
    > > >
    > > > The code and electronics are simple but the water valves get
    spendy.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Has anyone found cheap solenid valves?
    > > > I've thought about inground sprinkler valves but they are kinda
    slow
    > > >
    > > > TIA
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > > > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > > > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject
    > and
    > > Body of the message will be ignored.
    > > >
    > > >
    > > > Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to
    > http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
    > > >
    > > >
    > > >
    > >
    >
    >
    > To UNSUBSCRIBE, just send mail to:
    > basicstamps-unsubscribe@y...
    > from the same email address that you subscribed. Text in the
    Subject and Body of the message will be ignored.
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