The force, in turn, is the pressure P (in psi) pushing on the pellet multiplied by the base area A. In Imperial units, with the force F (in pounds) and the barrel length L (in feet), the energy E would be in Foot/Pounds, which we commonly abbreviate as FPE.
The product of the force times the distance, minus all the losses (and there are many), produces energy E in the pellet.
The barrel length L is the distance that force acts through. This accelerates the pellet until it reaches the muzzle.Ĭalculating The Maximum Power From A PCP Air Rifle
The expanding air acts on the base of the pellet (or bullet) creating a force F. In my previous article, I explained the basic operation of a Pre-Charged Pneumatic airgun (PCP).Īs you’ll remember, High Pressure Air is stored in a reservoir, and a small, carefully controlled amount is released with every shot. This time, we’ll discuss how to obtain the maximum power from a PCP air rifle, together with factors that limit that power.
