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- Perform integration according to the integration checklist above.
- Run wires from outside to inside the blast chamber. Make sure that the wires are shorted on the outside of the blast chamber. On the inside, unshort the e-match leads and connect it to the wires.
- Push the piston rod all the way in.
By conservation of momentum, the piston should not move upon ignition (in theory), but just in case, put a shop towel underneath to reduce scratching damage. Don't put the piston near anything it could fall off of. (REVISION 9/24/18: The piston body will move at least a little bit by conservation of momentum. Clamp the piston down) - Only after exiting the chamber and closing the door, perform a countdown and connect the outside wires to a voltage source.
- In the event of a misfire, disconnect the battery and wait at least 60 seconds before allowing anyone to enter the chamber and approach the test article.
Results
Test Number | Grams BP UsedGlue Type | Results | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.5Zap-A-Gap Medium CA+ | Approximate equilibrium extension of 5.5in It was at approximately ambient pressure when we unscrewed it which meant that the bolt didn’t go shooting out. A lot of residue on the walls—could be improved by using much less gluewalls. Couldn’t fully clean before the next test as a result. Small amount of movement–maybe the gas was able to leak out a little bit? movement–due to cons. of momentum. The piston was definitely pressurized when we got to it at approximately ambient pressure but it wasn't at the same volume because the rod had moved. | May have lost small amount of black powder and/or displaced other powder when getting rid of excess glue. We performed a tap test and black powder did not come loose once the glue was dryduring installation. |
| 2 | 1.0Insta-Cure Super Thin 1-3 sec | Very loud noise, the epoxy was blown of the FireBolt and then conservation of momentum worked against us. Even though the piston was clamped down, it was able to slide forward significantly. |
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- Slot the 1/4 NPT cap instead of the FireboltOnly use a drop of glue at a time otherwise it won't dry.