SpudFiles

I don't think I understand how a piston cannon works and would like some help. I've seen the pistons before but never could understand them. Any help would be nice, so as long as it is helpful.

-Sergeant Dotson 8)

In detail what don't you understand?

I don't see how the piston allows air to pass into the barrel when air is exposed by a ball valve, etc.

When the ball valve is opened it lets the air behind the piston out, the piston follows the air escaping and the stored air escapes though the barrel. Thats a very basic discription. Search the SpudWiki to fill in the details.

the blow valve only lets out enough air for the piston to slide back, allowing air to go around it into the barrel

But how does the air go around the piston if it is airtight?

did you already seen this: http://www.spudfiles.com/forums/piston- ... t8157.html

it's very clear done
so just copy paste the link and see if you understand it
if you have still questions: ask

Edit: I see that in the time I wrote this reply someone already posted this link

when you first get it you feel dumb that you don't understanded it before

Yea, I think I am starting to get it and yes, I do feel dumb....

Once the piston moves back, the air in your storage chamber has a clear path out the barrel.

The Wiki is your friend grasshopper.

pretty easy he?

Yea, a lot easier than I thought. I guess I know what my next project is now, if you know what I mean. :angryfire:

Sorry for double-posting but, if the air enters the chamber in front of the pison, wouldn't it push the piston back?

You would need a spring to keep the piston from moving back, assuming your putting air into the chamber.