Pneumatic Launcher Materials List

Pneumatic launchers can shoot tennis balls.

A pneumatic launcher can be used for a variety of uses and can launch a variety of objects. The concept is relatively simple in that a tube is loaded with an object (for example, a tennis ball or potato) and a high pressure blast of compressed air is quickly introduced behind the object. The result is a high velocity projectile out of the end of the tube.

Firing Tube

Firing tubes can be made from a variety of materials.

The simplest part of a pneumatic launcher is the firing tube. This tube should have a diameter suitable for the object to be launched. For instance, if the pneumatic launcher is to be a tennis ball cannon, then the tennis ball should be able to fit easily inside the tube without much extra space around the ball. The tube itself can be made from plastic pipe (PVC or ABS plastic), steel pipe or aluminum pipe. PVC pipe is cheap and easy to work with and has an adequate pressure rating.

Firing Valves and Controls

Spring loaded valves are useful for rapid launch velocity.

The key to a pneumatic launcher is the rapid introduction of high pressure compressed gas (air) into the firing tube behind the object to be launched. The simplest device is a spring loaded full-port ball valve. If the valve is mounted at one end of the firing tube and the compressed air supply is attached to that, then the spring action of the valve will rapidly open the path and the high pressure air will launch the object.

Compressed Air Supply

An air compressor is needed for high pressure pneumatics.

The launching energy is high pressure air (pneumatic). Small compressed air tanks can be attached directly to the end of the firing valve for portability. Another option for a more stationary device is to attach a small surge tank with a certain volume of air. This surge tank is attached to an air compressor on one side and the firing valve on the other. When ready to fire, the surge tank will empty its contents of compressed air through the firing valve and into the firing tube thus achieving launch.

References

• Spudgun Technology Center: Generally Accepted Materials for Spudgun Construction