Eschew anfractous dispensation.1
The Lapera Monoblock – a completely redesigned distribution manifold machined from billet 316 stainless steel that integrates the check-valve, supply filter and boiler-fill solenoid. This is an expensive part to make as it involves intricate 3D machining strategies on very expensive CNC equipment. However, it cuts the part count for the manifold by more than half, massively simplifying assembly and replacing sealed-thread connections with the humble, but truly miraculous o-ring (in our opinion one of the wonders of the modern world). This really is a case of less is more, the same only better. The Monoblock – just one of the many improvements you can’t see in the new DS4.
There is nothing particularly wrong with the previous generation composite manifold design, which, with the exception of one custom adapter, is made from off-the-shelf components. But if you need a custom part anyway, why not go the whole nine yards?
The composite manifold includes an in-line solenoid and has a part count of well over 20. Part count is a bit of a vague term as some “parts”, such as the check-valve are purchased as assemblies and would be replaced as such.
The Monoblock vastly simplifies the assembly, more than halving the “part count”, at the cost of a pair of complex-to-machine parts. It also eliminates two entire plumbing runs.
Worth the trade-off.
Part count is ten – including the o-rings – if you are willing to call the solenoid (which is a complex assembly (but one which you would probably replace as a unit)) a part.
Generally speaking, the composite manifold was a reliable design: because it isn’t directly attached to the boiler, it isn’t subject to large expansions and contractions from the thermal cycling that results from turning the machine on and off; so once assembled and leak free, it tends to stays that way. Getting it that way (not to mention making two extra plumbing runs) was a hassle.
KISS! Keep It Simple Stupid :)
Thanks for reading!
1:
eschew – to avoid habitually especially on moral or practical grounds : SHUN
anfractous – full of windings and intricate turnings : TORTUOUS
dispensation: (a) : the act of dispensing // the dispensation of medication // (b) : something dispensed or distributed
// … one of the most remarkable cultural dispensations in the country’s history, the paperback book.
— T. E. Cooney //