Hydraulic stuff

[norgale]

Anybody ever try to make an operating hydraulic system for something like a big winch or a crane ect? What would it take to do this? Pete

[Umi_Ryuzuki]

I would probably use an air system.
Clippard Minimatics makes a nice series of
miniature air cylinders.

The system could be run on retract air, or co2.

:cool:

[Shaun Hendricks]

Hydraulics can be made micro relatively easily. Just pumps, valves and rams.

[patmat2350]

... and oil and filters and leaks, oh my...

[Greg W]

once,on a scale car thread, someone made a hydraulic steering system for a truck. He took 2 cylinders and plumbed them together. A servo drove one and it moved the fluid to drive the second cylinder. I think its probably lots of fun to bleed the air out of the system but it worked for him. Greg W

[Shaun Hendricks]

Oil filters? Naw... you're not talking high pressure here. There are toy exploration hydraulic systems used in science classes and the like to demonstrate hydraulics properties. I seem to recall even seeing a small crane to demonstrate them.

Here's one that uses a syringe and water as a power system for it... very cute!

http://scientificsonline.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_3151604

syringes do make great RAM's... :D

I'd use Silcone Oil used for RC car shocks, they have some really light weight ones. Simple tubing, syringes or custom made brass/aluminum RAM's and a small piston or diaphram pump for motive power. You could even use a servo and a syringe if you felt like it.

[norgale]

Interesting Shaun. Those kits are a lot like what I had in mind. However I want to use oil if I can as it is more reliable than water. Might look for a hydraulic drive for the prop too. The boat will be pretty good size so room won't be a big problem. This should be fun. Pete

[Greg W]

you might want to consider non toxic antifreeze.We use it at work for some car wash "air cylinders" at a 50/50 mix.If there is a leak oil doesn't foul the water.Greg

[Shaun Hendricks]

Like I mentioned, Silicone Oil is available in many weights, see your LHS for "RC Car Shock Oil". Thinner would likely work better.

Water wouldn't actually be a bad thing since you're talking about a boat. You have a ready 'reserve' tank (whatever it's floating on), easy to obtain inexpensive pumps made to circulate it, and micro valves (for 1/8" & 1/4" lines) at any hardware store. When you are done running, drain your lines and you are good to go the next time. You could probably build it to be self bleeding as well. If you get a leak? Your bilge pump eliminates the problem... LOL! :D