ramses wrote:I think Tippmann decided to go pump because of heat build up issue.
Equally, a semi can be limited back to a certain rate, especially given that the C3's spark is electronically controlled.
The C3 claims 4 bps, which is about all I'd expect from a semi anyway.
could a drill press, basic hand tools, and several hours wishing I had a real lathe be substituted for said lathe?
If you can conjure up a couple of decent O-ring grooves on reasonably small diameter parts, yes. With those tools, I imagine you could come up with something - it might be possible to adapt the design more to your needs, within limits of course.
The thing is the parts need to be reasonably low friction to take advantage of what little energy is available.
Alternatively, the spool valve that's intended to run off chamber pressures could be modified to run off a beefy solenoid - that would also allow control of rate of fire. In practical terms, that might be the best option - although there is that appeal in doing it "the right way", with minimal electrical interference.
Whichever you prefer.
If that's your reaction to that, remind me never to show you the contents list for my ideas folder - I don't want to clean up the mess.
The semi combustion is small game.
Even the shell ejecting hybrid minigun doesn't really scratch the surface.
That ideas folder has got a few notes on each idea I have the ideas I have, mostly just to remind me I had it - the rest of the information is all locked in my head. (I've never really bothered with CAD programs - for most things, I can do it all upstairs, and with a hell of a lot less time and effort. The downside is that no-one else can see it.)
Still, don't get overly optimistic. The idea should work, but it's a little fiddly and not tested yet. Hopefully, you guys will be able to spot any errors I've made.
I can see I've consigned myself to drawing tomorrow.
But right now, it's bed time.