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Railgunz 4 Dummiez

CSEF · 2008 Electronics & Electromagnetics

William R. Oakley · Anderson (Arthur) Community Learning Center, Alameda, Alameda County

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this project was to give people a firsthand look at railgun physics and to test the possibility of a small-scale railgun for mundane uses, Ex. Construction. Methods/Materials The railgun and its charging circuit was constructed from some scrap metal and a few disposable cameras. It's effectiveness was measured by allowing the capacitor bank to achieve different charge degrees and measuring the distance traveled by the armature. Results Overall the project was a success as it provided a clear demonstration and explanation of railgun physics, however the railgun i created, while it did work, failed to accelerate the armature past the end of the rails. Conclusions/Discussion My research suggests that railguns could only be feasible on a small scale if a small, high voltage capacitor bank could be assembled for its use. Given the materials i have access to it's impossible to create an efficient railgun.

Summary statement

This project is a physical model of railguns and the physics that drive them.

Help received

Father helped me drill rails and taught me to solder electrical components.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2008 Electronics & Electromagnetics · Entry S0811

Resources

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Source: California Science & Engineering Fair public projects

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