Troubleshooting a Coil Gun Project Using a Disposable Camera Circuit

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on troubleshooting a coil gun project utilizing a disposable camera circuit, specifically its capacitor and charging mechanism. The user reports issues with the solenoid activation, experiencing either sparks or no response after charging the capacitor. Key insights include the necessity for high-capacity capacitors charged to high voltages to effectively deliver kinetic energy to the projectile, as energy loss in the wiring can hinder performance. The user acknowledges the need to verify calculations related to momentum and circuit integrity to resolve the issues encountered.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of capacitor functionality and charging circuits
  • Knowledge of solenoid operation and electromagnetic principles
  • Familiarity with momentum calculations in projectile motion
  • Experience with high-voltage safety protocols
NEXT STEPS
  • Research high-capacity capacitor specifications for coil guns
  • Learn about solenoid driver circuits and their configurations
  • Investigate methods to minimize energy loss in wiring
  • Explore advanced momentum calculation techniques for projectile systems
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists building coil guns, and engineers interested in high-voltage circuits and electromagnetic propulsion systems.

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I'm making a coil gun for a project, and ran into a few problems. I used a circuit from a disposable camera, which had a capacitor and charging circuit. I used two wires attached to the capacitor to connect the circuit to my solenoid.
However, after charging the capacitor, nothing seems to work. When I connect the wire from the solenoid to the one coming out of the circuit, I either get a spark, or nothing happens. I don't get any magnetic field, and my projectile doesn't launch. What could I have done wrong?
 
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Have you calculated how much momentum you expect the coil gun to deliver? You need extremely high-capacity capacitors charged to extremely high voltages to get any results, since most of the capacitor's energy is wasted in heating the wires rather than delivering kinetic energy to the projectile.
 
Thanks for the reply. My calculations are giving me enough momentum to shoot the projectile, but I must have either made an error there or on the circuit. I'll redo those. Thanks.
 

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