Halcyon Manifold Comparison

This document will identify characteristics and design parameters of the current Halcyon manifold (manufactured to our specifications) and the valve sample provided by TNR.

Photographs are provided with references to a particular issue or specification.

Cosmetic Finish/Appearance

  1. The Halcyon product has a finely pored Satin matte finish. The TNR product has a rougher finish, and brighter chrome plating. This type of finish tends to show blemishes more, which is evident when compared side by side.
  2. The Halcyon product appears to be manufactured in a higher quality forging, or has been pre-finished to a higher degree before being plated. Blemishes are very rare, and all flash and sharp edges are removed. The TNR product has a higher number of flaws, such as gouges, flash or sharp corners.
  3. The Halcyon product has a specified and proprietary logo. The logo is embossed and part of the forging. Additional labeling that appears on the back of valve is the result of a high quality surface finishing process, possibly a laser process. The TNR product is common engraving on all labeling, and shows no brand name/private labeling.

Configuration/Mechanical

  1. The TNR product has a forged web present on the right side of both the left hand and right hand valves used in the manifold assembly. This is an indication of the source of this valve, which is marketed by many re-sellers. This anomaly has been in the industry for quite some time, and subsequent copies of the forgings have failed to remove this. It is a result of the same forging being used for both a left and right valve, and then being machined accordingly. The Halcyon forging has removed this web.
  2. The Halcyon product has no square “ears” at the top of the DIN fitting. This provides a cleaner and unique look, which also identifies our valve as being different. These “ears” are also an indication of this commonly sourced and widely copied product as discussed in the above # 4 paragraph.
  3. The Halcyon snorkel tube has a flat crimp on the end, which allows the use of a wrench during installation. This prevents scratching of the plating when using pliers on the common design such as the TNR product.
  4. The TNR product has a better looking area at the crossbar nut. The tolerances are closer than the Halcyon product.
  5. The Halcyon rubber knobs are softer than the TNR version. The softer knobs are generally preferred for greater impact resistance and prevention of bending the valve stem.
  6. The valve stem design of the Halcyon product is considered to be of superior performance in o-ring sealing of dynamic pneumatic applications. The Halcyon is a “radial” seal o-ring, with split back-up ring. This radial o-ring maintains a seal on the stem and inner diameter of the bonnet nut at all times, regardless of the valve being open or closed. The TNR o-ring is a “face” seal, and relies on the handle spring to provide adequate seal until the pressure is applied by opening of the valve seat. This face seal design also tends to crush the o-ring and cause undue wear to the o-ring and the Teflon bushing, which is the other sealing surface required in this design. This wear can be observed during service of used manifolds.

Summary

The TNR product is widely available for sale and is marketed by many companies. It can be readily recognized, even though it may have different labeling available.

The raw shape, finish and design have been around for many years without change.

The Halcyon product is unique, with many differences cosmetically and mechanical. It is only available through Halcyon.