GRS Airtact User manual
& Accessories
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF AIRTACT!
This is the most versatile control system ever developed with an
expandable range of actuation. The heart of the Airtact system is
the air control unit where the throttle command is processed. This
simple and robust system requires dry, clean, oil-free air, and
a GraverMate, GraverMax, GraverMax SC, or GraverMach as
engraving system. Hook up is easy; just follow these step-by-step
instructions and the instructions provided with the connection kit if
required for your machine.
TERMS USED IN THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Control box or air control unit: Airtact and Touch Elements
GETTING STARTED
Decide on a location for the control box. This needs to be a
place where you can easily access the front of the unit for hose
connections and air adjustments. If you are connecting your
Airtact to a GraverMax or GraverMate, an additional kit will be
required.
#004-971 GraverMax A/T Filter Hook Up Kit
#004-972 GraverMate A/T Filter Hook Up Kit
NOTE: The black hose (#044-136) is for connecting the HIGH
pressure air coming from your compressor. The clear hose
(#044-135) is for connecting LOWER pressure air from the
“THROTTLE CONNECTION” port to the Airtact.
Turn off the air supply to your engraving system and bleed off
any remaining air in the line. Depending on the engraving system
that will be used, install the hoses as shown in Fig. 1 or Fig. 2.
Make sure to press them into the quick connect fittings all the
1
2
3
5
4
1 Airtact pressure gauge
2 Airtact pressure regulator
3 Twist-lock control port #1
4 Twist-lock control port #2
5 Control port switch Fig. 2: GraverMax SC & older GraverMach to Airtact Hook-up
Fig. 1: GraverMach to Airtact Hook-up
way. NOTE: When installing hoses, trim excess length. NOTE: It is
not possible to use the existing foot throttle with the Airtact system.
The original foot throttle must be completely disconnected for the
Airtact to work properly. If foot control is desired, use the FootPod
Touch Element.
#004-956 FootPod Touch Element Kit F1
You are now ready to hook up the touch element of your choice.
#004-952 Palm Touch Element Kit Monarch MI
#004-952-SS Palm Touch Element Kit Monarch MI Stainless Steel
#004-953 Palm Touch Element Kit 901 N1
#004-953-SS Palm Touch Element Kit 901 N1 Stainless Steel
#004-954 Thumb/Finger Touch Element Kit Monarch TM1
#004-955 Thumb/Finger Touch Element Kit 901 TN1
Connect the larger handpiece hose to the normal handpiece
air supply port on the GraverMach/MaxSC/Max/Mate. Take the
smaller hose and gently twist the hose end connector knob 1/2
turn clockwise until it stops to the left or right port on the front
of the Airtact. Turn the air supply pressure back on and check
carefully for leaks.
AIR PRESSURE ADJUSTMENTS
Begin by turning the power switch on to the engraving system
and adjust the strokes per minute (SPM) knob to 2300 or 2400
SPM. On the GraverMax/SC/Mach, switch the handpiece selector
knob to the handpiece you wish to use.
The Airtact control unit has a regulator and gauge on the face
located above the paddle switch. This controls how much power
you want for the handpiece to have. The lower the pressure the
lighter the handpiece will stroke, and the more air pressure, up to
12psi (0.8 bar), the harder it strokes.
1. On the Airtact unit, move the paddle switch in the direction of
the handpiece connection you wish to use and increase the
Airtact air pressure to 12 psi (0.8 bar).
2. On the GraverMach/MaxSC/Max/Mate back the air pressure
off at the regulator knob by turning it counter-clockwise
until the gauge shows 5 psi (0.4 bar). Hold the handpiece
vertically next to your ear and slowly begin to increase the
air pressure by turning the regulator knob clockwise. You will
feel the handpiece begin to buzz, then vibrate, and knock
lightly. When the knocking stops on a GraverMach or SC, your
handpiece is considered “tuned.”
NOTE: If you are using a Generation 1 GraverMax or GraverMate,
add 2 psi (0.1bar) to the gauge reading where the handpiece
stops knocking.
Check for proper handpiece operation by placing the paddle
switch in the center position. This should immediately give full
handpiece power if your connections are correct, if not, find the
problem and correct. NOTE: The center paddle switch position
will also give you an automatic stroking feature that is designed
for stippling or other operations where multiple hits are desired
without the need for control inputs.
SUGGESTIONS
Airtact Touch Element:
• Atapproximately12psi,theAirtactwillgivefullpowerrange
for any handpiece. Less than 12 psi, you will have reduced
power. This can be very useful for shading because you can
lessen the pressure (try 4 or 5 psi) to limit the power for really
fine control. ALWAYS BE AWARE THAT AT LESS THAN 12
PSI you will NOT have full power.
• SwitchingtheGraverMach/MaxSC/Max/Matehandpiece
selector does NOT switch the handpieces connected to the
PALM PAD C2
HIGHER SENSITIVITY
PALM PAD C2
PALM PAD D1
Raised Bumps
Control Flap
Raised Ridges
Palm Pad C2 Style
If you find that you would like
a more sensitive touch the
raised ridges can be reduced
or removed by using an razor
knife or grinding with a flexshaft,
dremel, NSK E-Max, etc.
Fig. 3: Palm Pad Modifications
Control Flap
Raised Bumps
Palm Pad D1 Style
D1 is overall more sensitive than
C2. To reduce its sensitivity,
reduce the thickness of the
control flap by using a razor
knife or grinding with a flexshaft,
dremel, NSK E-Max, etc.
on the outside (top) surface.
Reduce or Remove
Moderate Sensitivity
(more sensitive)
Palm Pad C2 Style
Reduce or remove the raised
ridges that are illustrated with
a dotted line. This will give you
a more sensitive handpiece that
will allow for less hand force.
Reduce or Remove
Higher Sensitivity
(even more sensitive)
Palm Pad Style
Reduce or remove the raised
ridges that are illustrated with
a dotted line. This will give you
a very sensitive handpiece with
even less hand force.
MODERATE
SENSITIVITY
PALM PAD C2
Airtact. If this happens, your Touch Element will not work
properly (selector switches should both be positioned to same
handpiece).
Airtact Palm Element:
• Properlypositionedinthehand,theAirtactPalmElements
respond not only to forward push, but also downward push
and hand squeeze. This blend of force is what gives Airtact
a full range of control. If the Palm Element seems a little
too responsive at first, loosen your grip and pressure on the
handpiece.
• WhenusingtheAirtact,thepositionofthePalmElement
knob is important and affects the response. Make sure both
hoses are not obstructed the flap is placed against your palm.
IMPORTANT: there are two different aspects to positioning
the Palm Element. One is the location of the control flap in the
palm, the other is the rotational orientation of the knob itself
on the handpiece which changes the control flap position in
rotation. Different people will likely have different preferences.
Agree on what is best at first.
• AirtactPalmPadscanbequicklytunedforharderoreasier
actuation using a razor knife or by grinding (with flex-shaft,
Dremel, NSK E-Max, etc.). We suggest using the stock touch
elements for a while to get a feel for the Airtact system.
Remember, this system is very user friendly and can be
customized to suit your needs or preferences. See fig. 3.
Airtact FootPod:
• TheFootPodelementconnectstoeither1or2twist-lockports
on the Airtact face. To switch to the FootPod simply move the
Airtact paddle switch to the port for the FootPod and you will
have foot control.
AIRTACT TROUBLESHOOTING
Your Airtact control system is a simple, virtually maintenance-free
tool that was designed to give you years of trouble-free service.
One item is required to insure this reliability, your compressed air
supply.
Your air supply MUST provide clean, dry, and oil-free air. We
suggest using an oil-free compressor with all GRS equipment.
If you are using an oil-type compressor you MUST have an oil
removal filter (coalescing type) in the line to your machine. If
you are unsure of this requirement, please call 800-835-3519
or 620-343-1084 and ask for Technical Services. Failure to
provide a properly prepared air supply will eventually lead to
erratic performance and can damage your equipment. OIL
CONTAMINATION IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY.
The touch elements are mechanically simple and their sole
purpose is to provide a variable restriction to the air control
circuit. When installing a new or existing touch element, take time
to clean the hand piece first as this will ensure everything is fresh
to start. Install the touch element of your choice and make sure
all the hose connections are secure.
TOUCH ELEMENT TROUBLESHOOTING
If you suspect the handpiece is not responding properly, you
can easily test the touch element and handpiece for proper
function. Unhook the twist lock connector holding the small hose
from the Airtact unit. Place your finger over the now open port
on the Airtact face. You can also check handpiece operation
by moving the selector switch to the center position. This over-
rides the Touch Element and will allow continuous handpiece
operation. Your handpiece should now run consistently as long
as your finger is covering this port or the selector switch is in
the center position. If it does not, there is something amiss with
your handpiece. This may require cleaning the piston, spring,
and bore to re-establish consistent operation. If the handpiece is
working correctly, the next step is to check the Touch Element for
blockage. Carefully inspect the touch element for any debris or
abnormal wear on the palm element, gently lift the flap and check
for obstructions.
Airtact is purposely designed for the low cost evolution of touch
elements and even the ability for the end user to make their own.
Expect new and exciting developments in the Airtact product line
as the touch element designs are constantly evolving. Be sure
to check with www.airtact.com for what is new and additional
instructions and tips.
TIPS & TRICKS
1. To begin, set Airtact pressure at 12psi. This gives a full power
range for most handpieces.
2. Remember: With a foot control it doesn’t matter how tightly
you squeeze the handpiece. With Airtact hand controls, it
does and that’s an advantage once you are familiar with it.
Expect a learning period ... and relax!
3. Try less Airtact pressure (4-6psi) for fine shading as this limits
the maximum power. Put the Control Port Switch in the middle
to start the handpiece and adjust the Airtact pressure to the
suggested 4-6 psi (.3-.4 bar) then move the Control Port
Switch to the handpiece you are using.
WARRANTY
Each Airtact unit, including the handpiece Touch Element knobs
(excluding rubber Touch Pads) and Foot Pod control carries a
full 2-year warranty covering parts and labor. If warranty repair
is needed, the customer should contact the selling dealer for
more information before returning item for repair.
These units are designed for reliable operation using most
sources of compressed air. However, some air supplies
contain excessive water, oil, dirt, rust, or other contaminant’s.
The unit’s built-in filter is a final filter to protect against
normal dirt and water. If your compressed air has excessive
contaminant’s, you should install the necessary filter(s) and
water trap(s) ahead of your unit.
Oil contamination can be gradual and subtle. If you notice an
oil residue (usually a yellow to brown colored sticky or liquid
residue) in the unit’s filter bowl or handpiece / throttle hose,
you probably have an oil problem in your compressed air.
Older oil-lubricated and “silent” compressors that use internal
oil are more likely to cause oil contamination. If this occurs,
install a Coalescing Oil Filter (GRS #004-579 or equivalent).
DAMAGE CAUSED BY CONTAMINATED COMPRESSED
AIR IS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY.
900 Overlander Road
P.O. Box 1153
Emporia, KS 66801 USA
800-835-3519•620-343-1084
fax 620-343-9640
www.grstools.com LIT-298
Airtact PARTS LIST
PART #004-935
Part No. Description
002-109 Nut #10-32 Hex Z/P
002-186 Pop rivet
002-247 Washer, 0.191 x 0.628 x 16 GA
002-309 #6 Hex head-slotted sheet metal screw
002-590 O-ring, 7/16 x 9/16 x .070
002-766 Wire hose clamp, Corbin A-45
002-950 Set screw, 8-32 x 1/8
022-001 #8-32 x 1/2 SHCS
022-080 Plastic barbed fitting 10-32 thread
022-081 Plastic barb fitting 10-32 thread
022-964 10-32 x 0.375" button head socked head screw
022-965 Bulkhead union
022-980 regulator
023-019 mini air gauge
023-020 Push in 1/4" O.D x 10-32 fitting
023-021 Push in 1/4" OD x 1/8" NPT short
023-022 Switch, air valve 3-pos 4-way
023-023 spring, compression 2/8 lbs.
023-025 Orifice, 0.010-22081-BLUE
023-026 female 3/32 ID tube
023-027 color code ring
023-028 fitting locknut
023-029 male 3/32 ID tube
023-030 Fitting, Y 3/16 ID tube
023-031 Inline 5 micron filter
023-032 Push in “T” fitting for 1/4 tube
023-033 push to connect plug
023-050 3/8 x 2 1/2 x 1/8 neoprene pad
024-031 Airtact front face decal
044-059 Decal to identify air inlet port
and exhaust port
044-097 Top and bottom panel for Airtact
044-098 Side panel for Airtact box
044-099 Airtact rear panel
044-100 Airtact front cover machined from plastic billet
044-101 spool body #7 profile
044-102 Spool valve control end cap
044-103 Screw to adjust initial spring load on spool
044-104 Extruded corner
044-105 Airtact servo spool
044-106 Airtact switch cover
044-111 Black pressure hose from inlet to regulator
supply side
044-112 Hose from regulator to “Y” fitting
044-113 Hose from Y fitting to orifice
044-114 Air line from “Y” fitting to air gauge
044-115 Inlet hose from exhaust in fitting to control valve
exhaust in fitting
044-116 Control side air flow from spool valve to
control switch
044-117 Hose from switching valve to control port
044-135 72" length of 050-002 to hook up exhaust
to Airtact unit
044-136 72" length of 050-029 to hook up supply PSI to Airtact
044-146 Black pressure hose from inlet to regulator supply side
044-147 Modified fitting
044-153 Airtact serial number & ID tag
044-136
044-135
044-111
023-033
023-032
044-146
023-031
044-115 022-965 Nut
044-059
023-021
044-116
044-099
023-020
023-025
022-081
044-102
044-101
044-105
002-950
023-030
044-114
002-766
002-109
044-098
044-112
044-113
023-023
022-964
044-097
044-106
022-001
023-029
023-026
044-100
023-027
044-117
023-028
023-019
044-103
002-247
002-309
022-080
022-980 Knob
023-022
022-980
044-104
044-111
024-031
044-147
023-050
002-186
044-153
022-908 Nut
