SpudFiles Wiki - User contributions [en]

Carbon Dioxide

2009-05-08T13:51:59Z

Hubb017: /* Safety */

Carbon dioxide (chemical formula: CO2) is a chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms covalently bonded to a single carbon atom. It is a gas at standard temperature and pressure and exists in Earth's atmosphere in this state.

For more scientific and technical information on carbon dioxide, read [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide here].

==Safety==
In a bottle, CO2 is in liquid form. It expands into a gas upon release. While in the bottle, it holds the vapor pressure of the CO2, which reflects the pressure output of the bottle. Generally, this pressure is 800+ psi, depending on the temperature of the bottle. The [http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc206/WH017/CO2DynamicsChart.jpg CO2 Dynamics Chart]represents the pressure of a CO2 bottle with a given pressure.

Safety is the number one factor when using CO2 for any launcher application. Generally, pvc is used in launcher construction. While pvc is a great material to use, care must be taken when using CO2, as pvc is not able to withstand the pressures generated. Also, pvc becomes brittle when subjected to the cold of the CO2.

This, however, should not discourage the use of CO2. There are several safety precautions one can take to avoid damage or serious injury:

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Paintball_regulator regulator]; a regulator allows only a certain amount of pressure into the chamber at a time. [http://www.palmer-pursuit.com/cart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9 Palmer's Pursuit Shop] produces one of the finest CO2 regulators on the market, and can easily be hooked up to most launchers as they have many different configurations.

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Safety_valve safety relief valve]; these valves will open when a chamber reaches a certain pressure, allowing excess pressure to bleed off. These should be used with a regulator, in case the regulator fails.

- Use parts rated for the pressure; launcher parts, such as metal pipe, can be used in place of the pvc if desired.

- Don't use CO2; if one does not have the confidence to use high pressures, they should not be used.

==CO2 For Launcher Applications==
CO2 is commonly seen being used by paintball markers. It can also be applied, in the same manner, to be used in a pneumatic launcher. There are three main methods for using CO2 in a launcher, each of which is discussed below.

===12g Cartridges===
A 12g CO2 cartridge, or CO2 powerlet, is a small CO2 canister that holds approximately 12 grams of liquid CO2. These cartridges are non-refillable and are generally used as ammunition once empty. It is connected to a launcher via a quick change adapter.

Generally, one cartridge is used to fill a chamber. A simple formula is used to give one a general idea of how much pressure a cartridge will put inside a given chamber size. The formula is as follows:
4200 / chamber volume (cu in) = chamber pressure (psi)

For more detailed information on pressures related to 12g cartridges, read [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/CO2_cartridge here].

===Portable CO2 Tank===
These tanks come in different sizes and are most commonly seen being used on paintball markers. A regulator is used with these tanks to set the chamber pressure to a certain psi.

===Bulk CO2 Tank===
These are larger tanks, generally used to fill a portable CO2 tank. They can be used with a launcher, and the same techniques used for a portable CO2 tank is the same used for a bulk tank.

===Hooking It All Up===
[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/co2-setup-t308.html Here] is a thread at Spudfiles that contains detailed information on how to connect these systems to a launcher.

==Frequently Asked Questions==
Sometimes in the forums, a question will arise about CO2. Generally, these are the same questions. Two threads in Spudfiles have been started to attempt to answer these questions and are linked as follows:

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/c02-faq-t10712.html CO2 FAQ by Trae08]'''
This FAQ covers a lot of the very basic questions and is a good place to start when one has a question.

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/viewtopic,p,122401.html#122401 CO2 FAQs by hubb017]'''
This thread picks up where Trae08 left off. It covers more specific questions, including the formula to figure out how many shots one can expect from a portable / bulk tank.

==Conclusion==
CO2 is a fine gas to use in a launcher application. It is readily available and is fairly cheap. As always, be safe and have fun.

Co2

2009-04-22T15:07:43Z

Hubb017: Replacing page with 'See [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Carbon_Dioxide Carbon Dioxide].'

See [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Carbon_Dioxide Carbon Dioxide].

Carbon Dioxide

2009-04-22T15:07:26Z

Hubb017:

Carbon dioxide (chemical formula: CO2) is a chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms covalently bonded to a single carbon atom. It is a gas at standard temperature and pressure and exists in Earth's atmosphere in this state.

For more scientific and technical information on carbon dioxide, read [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide here].

==Safety==
In a bottle, CO2 is in liquid form. It expands into a gas upon release. While in the bottle, it holds the vapor pressure of the CO2, which reflects the pressure output of the bottle. Generally, this pressure is 800+ psi, depending on the temperature of the bottle. The CO2 Dynamics Chart (found in a link below) represents the pressure of a CO2 bottle with a given pressure.

Safety is the number one factor when using CO2 for any launcher application. Generally, pvc is used in launcher construction. While pvc is a great material to use, care must be taken when using CO2, as pvc is not able to withstand the pressures generated. Also, pvc becomes brittle when subjected to the cold of the CO2.

This, however, should not discourage the use of CO2. There are several safety precautions one can take to avoid damage or serious injury:

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Paintball_regulator regulator]; a regulator allows only a certain amount of pressure into the chamber at a time. [http://www.palmer-pursuit.com/cart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9 Palmer's Pursuit Shop] produces one of the finest CO2 regulators on the market, and can easily be hooked up to most launchers as they have many different configurations.

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Safety_valve safety relief valve]; these valves will open when a chamber reaches a certain pressure, allowing excess pressure to bleed off. These should be used with a regulator, in case the regulator fails.

- Use parts rated for the pressure; launcher parts, such as metal pipe, can be used in place of the pvc if desired.

- Don't use CO2; if one does not have the confidence to use high pressures, they should not be used.

==CO2 For Launcher Applications==
CO2 is commonly seen being used by paintball markers. It can also be applied, in the same manner, to be used in a pneumatic launcher. There are three main methods for using CO2 in a launcher, each of which is discussed below.

===12g Cartridges===
A 12g CO2 cartridge, or CO2 powerlet, is a small CO2 canister that holds approximately 12 grams of liquid CO2. These cartridges are non-refillable and are generally used as ammunition once empty. It is connected to a launcher via a quick change adapter.

Generally, one cartridge is used to fill a chamber. A simple formula is used to give one a general idea of how much pressure a cartridge will put inside a given chamber size. The formula is as follows:
4200 / chamber volume (cu in) = chamber pressure (psi)

For more detailed information on pressures related to 12g cartridges, read [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/CO2_cartridge here].

===Portable CO2 Tank===
These tanks come in different sizes and are most commonly seen being used on paintball markers. A regulator is used with these tanks to set the chamber pressure to a certain psi.

===Bulk CO2 Tank===
These are larger tanks, generally used to fill a portable CO2 tank. They can be used with a launcher, and the same techniques used for a portable CO2 tank is the same used for a bulk tank.

===Hooking It All Up===
[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/co2-setup-t308.html Here] is a thread at Spudfiles that contains detailed information on how to connect these systems to a launcher.

==Frequently Asked Questions==
Sometimes in the forums, a question will arise about CO2. Generally, these are the same questions. Two threads in Spudfiles have been started to attempt to answer these questions and are linked as follows:

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/c02-faq-t10712.html CO2 FAQ by Trae08]'''
This FAQ covers a lot of the very basic questions and is a good place to start when one has a question.

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/viewtopic,p,122401.html#122401 CO2 FAQs by hubb017]'''
This thread picks up where Trae08 left off. It covers more specific questions, including the formula to figure out how many shots one can expect from a portable / bulk tank.

==Conclusion==
CO2 is a fine gas to use in a launcher application. It is readily available and is fairly cheap. As always, be safe and have fun.

Carbon Dioxide

2009-04-22T15:05:56Z

Hubb017: New page: See [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Co2 CO2].

See [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Co2 CO2].

Wantedpages

2009-04-22T15:05:06Z

Hubb017: /* Fuels and related */

I am making this as a page to list pages people want to see created. This page separate from the [[Special:Wantedpages|page from the special section]] which shows non-existent pages with links to them. These can either be a result of a wanted page or just bad linking.

==Building materials and construction==
*Threads
*Flange
*Cleanout
*Plug
*Cap
*Elbow
*Chamfering
*Teflon tape
*ABS
*Syringe
*Fire extinguishers
*Epoxy

==Accessories and improvements==
*Hop-up
*Suppressors
*Muzzle brake
*Propane bottle adapter
*Propane bottle adapter how-to make
*Painting
*Ramrod
*Ballistic pendulum

==Theories==
*Blowby
*Automatic firing
*Semi-automatic firing
*Drag coefficient (CD)
*Cleaning
*Hang-time

==Fuels and related==
*Alcohol
*Hydrogen
*Methane
*Helium
*Oxygen
*Nitrogen
*Air

==Valves==
*Gate valve
*Globe valve
*Hammer valve

==Tools==
*HCMP
*Launcher Range Calculator
*ProMeterSuite
*SpudTool

==Ammo==
*Airsoft BB
*0.177 BB
*Water

==Other==
*Spudfiles

Pneumatic air sources

2009-04-22T15:04:36Z

Hubb017: /* Gases */

This page lists some of the common sources of air [[pressure]] to power a pneumatic, and the advantages and disadvantages of each:

==Gases==

'''Air'''

Advantages:
* It's price (completely free of course)
* Global availability.
* Inert

Disadvantages:
* Limited performance approaching the sound barrier.

Performance of air is moderate. It is very uncommon for a air powered launcher to exceed the sound barrier, but not completely impossible. Most gases are compared against air as a benchmark
Sources: If you want to use air, you'll either need a [[compressor]], [[Hand pump|hand/foot pump]] or a [[gas bottle|High Pressure Air (HPA) tank]]

'''Helium'''

Advantages:
* Exceptional performance
* High speed of sound and particle speed
* Inert

Disadvantages:
* Costly
* Will leak faster than any other gas
* Helium regulators typically limited to 200 psi.

Performance is second only to Hydrogen.
Sources: Unless you have an on-site extraction plant, the only option is [[gas bottle]]s

'''[[MAPP]]'''

Advantages:
* More powerful than propane, but still safe for [[pressure rated]] PVC

Disadvantages:
* More expensive than propane

'''Nitrogen'''

Advantages:
* Performance slightly better than air.
* Option for high pressures.
* Inert

Disadvantages:
* Costly
* Particle speed is not significantly more than that of air

Nitrogen is slightly more powerful than air for a given pressure, but nitrogen regulators are capable of very high pressures.
Sources: Unless you have an on-site extraction plant, the only option is [[gas bottle]]s

'''Hydrogen'''

Advantages:
* Highest performance gas, in terms of particle speed

Disadvantages:
* Costly.
* Potential explosive risk.
* Will leak fast.

Hydrogen is the most powerful gas that can be used in a pneumatic, but it has numerous risks associated with it.
Sources: Unless you have an on-site extraction plant, the only option is [[gas bottle]]s or electrolysis

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Co2 Carbon Dioxide]'''

Advantages:
* Reasonably cheap
* High pressure
* Highest gas volume to bottle volume ratio
* Inert

Disadvantages:
* Low power due to high molar mass and high density
* Very heavy cooling on decompression (can cause problems with [[PVC]] launchers)

CO2 is a very common bottled gas, but it's power is limited by it's high density.
Sources: [[Gas bottle]]s, [[CO2 cartridge]]

'''[[Propane]]'''

Advantages:
* Reasonably cheap
* High gas volume to bottle volume ratio
* Readily available

Disadvantages:
* Low power
* Low pressure
* Possible (if unlikely) fire risk

Propane is better known as a [[combustion cannon]] power source, but some pneumatics have used it as a gas. It's performance is low, because of it's high density and low pressures, but it is cheap and easily found.
Sources: [[Gas bottle]]s, either in large bulk tanks of several kilograms, or in small tanks of 0.5 - 1 lb.

==Supplies==

[[Compressor]]

[[Hand_pump|Hand/Foot Pump]]

[[Gas_bottle|Gas bottles]]

[[CO2 cartridge]]s

Co2

2009-04-22T15:03:59Z

Hubb017: New page: Carbon dioxide (chemical formula: CO2) is a chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms covalently bonded to a single carbon atom. It is a gas at standard temperature and pressure and e...

Carbon dioxide (chemical formula: CO2) is a chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms covalently bonded to a single carbon atom. It is a gas at standard temperature and pressure and exists in Earth's atmosphere in this state.

For more scientific and technical information on carbon dioxide, read [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide here].

==Safety==
In a bottle, CO2 is in liquid form. It expands into a gas upon release. While in the bottle, it holds the vapor pressure of the CO2, which reflects the pressure output of the bottle. Generally, this pressure is 800+ psi, depending on the temperature of the bottle. The CO2 Dynamics Chart (found in a link below) represents the pressure of a CO2 bottle with a given pressure.

Safety is the number one factor when using CO2 for any launcher application. Generally, pvc is used in launcher construction. While pvc is a great material to use, care must be taken when using CO2, as pvc is not able to withstand the pressures generated. Also, pvc becomes brittle when subjected to the cold of the CO2.

This, however, should not discourage the use of CO2. There are several safety precautions one can take to avoid damage or serious injury:

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Paintball_regulator regulator]; a regulator allows only a certain amount of pressure into the chamber at a time. [http://www.palmer-pursuit.com/cart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9 Palmer's Pursuit Shop] produces one of the finest CO2 regulators on the market, and can easily be hooked up to most launchers as they have many different configurations.

- Use a [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/Safety_valve safety relief valve]; these valves will open when a chamber reaches a certain pressure, allowing excess pressure to bleed off. These should be used with a regulator, in case the regulator fails.

- Use parts rated for the pressure; launcher parts, such as metal pipe, can be used in place of the pvc if desired.

- Don't use CO2; if one does not have the confidence to use high pressures, they should not be used.

==CO2 For Launcher Applications==
CO2 is commonly seen being used by paintball markers. It can also be applied, in the same manner, to be used in a pneumatic launcher. There are three main methods for using CO2 in a launcher, each of which is discussed below.

===12g Cartridges===
A 12g CO2 cartridge, or CO2 powerlet, is a small CO2 canister that holds approximately 12 grams of liquid CO2. These cartridges are non-refillable and are generally used as ammunition once empty. It is connected to a launcher via a quick change adapter.

Generally, one cartridge is used to fill a chamber. A simple formula is used to give one a general idea of how much pressure a cartridge will put inside a given chamber size. The formula is as follows:
4200 / chamber volume (cu in) = chamber pressure (psi)

For more detailed information on pressures related to 12g cartridges, read [http://www.spudfiles.com/spud_wiki/index.php/CO2_cartridge here].

===Portable CO2 Tank===
These tanks come in different sizes and are most commonly seen being used on paintball markers. A regulator is used with these tanks to set the chamber pressure to a certain psi.

===Bulk CO2 Tank===
These are larger tanks, generally used to fill a portable CO2 tank. They can be used with a launcher, and the same techniques used for a portable CO2 tank is the same used for a bulk tank.

===Hooking It All Up===
[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/co2-setup-t308.html Here] is a thread at Spudfiles that contains detailed information on how to connect these systems to a launcher.

==Frequently Asked Questions==
Sometimes in the forums, a question will arise about CO2. Generally, these are the same questions. Two threads in Spudfiles have been started to attempt to answer these questions and are linked as follows:

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/c02-faq-t10712.html CO2 FAQ by Trae08]'''
This FAQ covers a lot of the very basic questions and is a good place to start when one has a question.

'''[http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/viewtopic,p,122401.html#122401 CO2 FAQs by hubb017]'''
This thread picks up where Trae08 left off. It covers more specific questions, including the formula to figure out how many shots one can expect from a portable / bulk tank.

==Conclusion==
CO2 is a fine gas to use in a launcher application. It is readily available and is fairly cheap. As always, be safe and have fun.

The Sprinkler Valve

2009-04-10T17:24:08Z

Hubb017: /* The Book */

The Sprinkler Valve

2009-04-10T17:23:34Z

Hubb017: /* What's in this book */

Sprinkler valve

2009-03-05T15:11:02Z

Hubb017: /* More Information */

[[Image:Sprinkler_valve.jpg|frame|A Typical Electrically Operated Sprinkler Valve]]

== General Information ==
Sprinkler valves are the most commonly used [[valve]] on [[pneumatic launcher]]s, and offer a number of desirable qualities. Because they are intended for use with home watering systems, sprinkler valves are readily available at nearly any location that sells [[PVC pipe]] and fittings. Sprinkler valves are intended for electronic actuation, however most are modified for pneumatic actuation, offering better performance in spudding applications.

Unfortunately for spudders sprinkler valves are not designed to open quickly since the speed of the valve has little affect on their intended use in sprinkler systems. In addition the large number of internal turns decreases the flow by roughly 25% compared to a [[piston valve]] of the same seat diameter, though [[muzzle velocity]] only decreases by about 10%.

== Valve Actuation ==
A sprinkler valve can be actuated, or opened, in a number of ways. Though they are intended to be opened by the application of 24VAC to the solenoid, many opt for a modification allowing the [[pilot]] to be vented through another valve. Typically a [[Blowgun]] is used, though [[ball valve]]s and even other sprinkler valves can do the job.

=== Electronic Actuation ===
Though electronically actuated valves open slower and offer poorer performance over their pneumatically modified counterparts, many spudders prefer this method, since it does not require altering the valve in any way.

Although most sprinkler valves are intended to operate on 24VAC, they can be successfully opened with 9-27VDC, usually applied by one, two, or three 9v batteries. The power source is wired in series with the solenoid and a switch. The solenoid will retract and the valve will open when voltage is applied.

Stock sprinkler valves can be fired remotely using a simple electronic circuit. Check out the [[remotely activated valve]] tutorial for more information.

=== Pneumatic Actuation ===
The performance of a valve can be improved by replacing the stock solenoid-valve vent with a [[pilot valve]] with more flow. Most often this is a blow gun, although for larger valves a ball valve or even a smaller sprinkler valve can be used. This operation is often called [[sprinkler valve modification|modding]] the valve.

==Troubleshooting==
If you are having problems with your sprinkler valve, these are some things to try

====Valve "Honks" or "sounds like an airhorn"====
You need a larger pilot valve. For more information, see [[honking]].

====Valve won't seal====
If your valve leaks air out the [[barrel]] there is a good chance that there is dirt, PVC shavings ''etc.'' in the valve preventing it from closing properly. An easy way to clean the valve it to just hook it up to a hose and flush water through it while cycling the valve a few times. If that doesn't fix the problem then you should disassemble the valve and clean the diaphragm and seat. Check for any plastic chips that may have entered the valve. Smear the diaphragm and seat with lithium grease to promote a seal.

For other problems, visit the Sprinkler Valve Troubleshooting Guide [http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/sprinkler-valve-troubleshooting-guide-t8780.html]

== More Information ==
[[GGDT]]'s website has valve data for sprinklers in it's [http://www.thehalls-in-bfe.com/GGDT/library/library_menu.html design library]

[http://www.mediafire.com/?nnzjnwewndz The Sprinkler Valve] is a comprehensive e-book written to answer the most common questions, and the not-so-common questions, that may arise from using this valve. It also shows, in detail, the basic modification process, as well as a few advanced modifications.

[[category:valves]]