Basic Pneumatic Cannon
The BPC-01
This is a basic pneumatic cannon, an excellent starting point for the novice of PVC mechanics.
Potato Cannon Plans
Construction
MATERIALS
- 1" Pipe (short sections for use as nipples)
- 1 1/2" Pipe
- 1 1/2" Coupling
- 1 1/2"x1" Reducing Bushing
- 2" Pipe
- 2" Street Elbows (Male and Female connections)
- 2" Endcap
- 2"x1" Reducing Bushing
- 1" to Male Thread x2
- Tire Valve
- 1" Ball Valve
- Large block of wood and tie strap for spacer
ALL PIPE IS SCH 40! DO NOT USE DWV PIPE!
ASSEMBLY
This cannon is very simple to build. The 2" Chamber should be cut around 4 feet, but can be as short as 3 feet and still perform well. It is a matter of preference. The barrel should also be around 4 feet. Drill a hole for the tire valve and attach it to the endcap, before it is glued in place. When all pieces are arranged, prime and glue. Let them sit overnight or you risk destroying the seal of the glue.
Adaptations of this cannon abound on the Internet. One cannon is 10 feet long and shoots 3" wide bean cans of concrete!