What is the best fuel for a potato launcher?

What is the best fuel for a potato launcher?

The most effective experimental propellant was defined as the one which accelerated the potato to the highest muzzle velocity. The experimental propellant acetylene performed the best on average (138.1 m/s), followed by methanol (48.2 m/s), butane (34.6 m/s), ethanol (33.3 m/s), and propane (27.9 m/s), respectively.

Why did the potato gun fire?

The spark ignites the fuel, causing an explosion. Pressure builds rapidly behind the potato, which is wedged tightly in the barrel. When the pressure in the barrel overcomes the resistance from the potato, the expanding gas forces the potato down the length of the barrel and into the air.

How much does it cost to make a potato launcher?

Introduction: The Original Potato Cannon Sometims it is also called a potato gun. Making this cannon takes about an hour and $30. The finished gun can shoot potatoes over 100 yards!!!

How far does a potato gun shoot?

Potato guns are capable of firing projectiles 500 yards, or even farther.

How far does a potato launcher shoot?

Who invented spud gun?

E. Joseph Cossman
Early history The first spud gun was invented during the Great Depression. The original inventor sold his patent to E. Joseph Cossman for US$600 after World War II. Cossman, the brother-in-law of “Uncle” Milton Levine, sold two million spud guns in six months as a result of an advertising campaign.

Are potato guns legal in Australia?

Australia. All combustion and pneumatic spud guns are considered firearms in every state. Any device capable of being aimed and discharging a projectile using a barrel, and that has the potential to cause injury to a person, is considered to be a weapon and requires licensing.

What type of potatoes should I use in my air cannon?

The types of potato you use in your air cannon is an important thing to consider if you want to create maximum distance and have really accurate shots. You will need firm, solid potatoes in order to make them fit snug in the barrel. I file the edge of my barrel at a 45 degree angle so it makes a sharp edge.

How dangerous are air cannons and potato guns?

Although making air cannons and potato guns can be a lot of fun, it can also be dangerous. Always play it safe and make your safety and the safety of others a top priority. If your air cannon or potato cannon doesn’t fire right away, never look down the barrel. You may take out an eye or even worse, possibly cause a fatality. Second…

How do you make a launch apparatus?

The construction of the launch apparatus (see below for a diagram) is as follows. Attach 22-inch-long pipe to the 1½-inch male pipe thread adapter using PVC cement. Attach 1½-inch female adapter to 1½-inch to 3/4-inch reducing bushing using PVC cement and allow to cure.