How to Make a CO2 Launcher
Carbon Dioxide, CO2 for short, makes up less than one percent of Earth's atmosphere. The gas is most notable today as a byproduct from the burning of fossil fuels to create energy. Carbon Dioxide may be captured and stored in cartridges. These cartridges are then used to release the pressurized gas, capable of powering certain objects upon release. The construction of launchers, powered by the release of gas is one way in which CO2 is utilized.
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Things You'll Need
- 2" diameter PVC pipe: 15.5" long
- 2" PVC Cap
- PVC Glue
- 90 degree steel pipe elbow
- 1" (length) steel pipe piece
- 5" (length) steel pipe piece
- Steel pipe reducer
- Ball valve
- CO2 Adapter
- 12 gram CO2 cartridges
- Plumbers tape
- File
- Nerf Pocket Vortex football
- Blow torch (optional)
Instructions
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Building a CO2 Launcher
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1
Take the long piece of PVC pipe and put a cap on one end. Gluing this in place makes a tight seal.
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2
Drill a half inch hole in the end of the PVC pipe near the cap. Leave a little space between the cap and the hole.
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3
Insert the 90 degree steel elbow into the hole you just drilled. If it doesn't quite fit, use a file to slowly enlarge the hole. For maximum seal, use a blow torch to carefully heat the plastic slightly so it will melt and bond around the inserted elbow piece.
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4
Screw the one inch steel pipe into the end of the steel elbow you just installed. After making sure everything fits correctly unscrew the one inch piece for the next several steps.
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5
Attach the ball valve to the end of the one inch steel pipe.
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6
Attach the five inch steel pipe piece to the opposite end of the ball valve.
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7
Use the steel pipe reducer to connect the open end of the five inch pipe to the CO2 adapter, completing the pressurization chamber for the launcher. Reattach the one inch piece to the steel elbow piece.
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8
Take a minute to make sure that all pipe connections are secured as tightly as possible to prevent air leaks. Use plumbers tape around connection points for a stronger seal.
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9
Secure something between the tube and the pressurization chamber for extra stability. A piece of wood or plastic held in place by zip ties is a simple option.
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10
Check ball valve to make sure it is closed. Insert a 12 gram CO2 cartridge into the adapter on the end of the pressure chamber assembly. The gas will release and fill the chamber, creating the pressure that powers the launcher.
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11
Drop a Nerf football into the launch tube.
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12
Aim the launcher in a slightly upward arc. Quickly open the ball valve to release the pressurized CO2 launching the football. The faster the valve is opened, the further the football will be launched.
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1
Tips & Warnings
When first pressurized the amount of leakage can be checked by spraying a small amount of soapy water onto the pressure chamber. Any visible bubbles are places air is leaking.
When pressurizing for the first time wrap the entire assembly using a towel or blanket. This will help protect against possible explosions.
Injury is possible if the launcher is used incorrectly. Responsibility and restraint should be employed at all times.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
