Carbon fiber as pressure vessel?

[wyz2285]

I recently bought a couple carbon fiber tubes. Seems at least as tough as aluminium tubes (I know according to material property it's stronger than steel but from my personal testings). I'd like to use it as a chamber for a rifle I'm planning for Christmas however it's quite thin walled (25mm OD 1mm wall) and I remember some nasty accident someone posted about carbon fiber arrows.
According to the seller it's 100% 3k carbon fiber roll tube imported from Japan. After some research the only problem I should encounter is the longitudinal strength of the pipe, so maybe two long rod connecting both end of the pipe would solve the issue? I'm happy with just 500 psi but if I could use 1000 psi (so I can use co2) that would be awesome.

[Brian the brain]

Usually the fibers only run one direction wich makes the tubes unsuitable for holding pressure.

You could always hydro-test them.

[wyz2285]

Usually the fibers only run one direction wich makes the tubes unsuitable for holding pressure.

You could always hydro-test them.

True, they are rolled, that't why the longitudinal strength problem I was talking about.

[Gippeto]

You realize that you did not actually ask a question. Looking for a random half wit to tell you it's okay perhaps?

Not something I would recommend. 4130 and 2024 T3 can be good choices for pressure vessel construction though.

[wyz2285]

Well I'm just asking if these tubes can be used as pressure vessel. If it can, how high it's ok to go?
The thing with aluminium is I can't find decent pipe local (generally thin walled, like 30mm OD 1mm wall). Bought once online and the quality was crap (the wall thickness varies). These carbon fiber pipes seemed strong to me and easy to use so.. Just a thought.

[Gippeto]

Even had you posted pictures of the tubes in question (might have been a good idea don't you think?), without material data from the manufacturer, no one can give you a real answer.

When your arse is on the line, err on the safe side...don't use it.

[wyz2285]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/131293787658?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT
This is the pipe in question. Shouldn't it at least be stronger than aluminium pipes of same size? (Same OD and wall thickness)

[Gippeto]

They are very pretty looking tubes, but have a look at the weave on a 4500psi paintball or scba tank...very different. It's the direction of the weave that gives the tank it's strength...even then, paintball and scba tanks are aluminum WRAPPED in carbon fiber.

Would not use those tubes for pressure vessels, but WOULD use them for a lower stress appplication...would make for a spanky looking and light weight barrel shroud, or could sleeve a barrel with one to improve harmonics. 8)

[wyz2285]

Yeah I have one of the composite tanks.... I guess its aluminium chamber again then.
Thanks a lot though Could still use it to make suppressors