Thursday, September 2, 2010

What Causes Liquid To Enter A Tippmann A5

When liquid enters a paintball gun, the performance of the gun will be diminished.


The Tippmann A5, like many other paintball guns, can utilize a CO2 air source for shooting paintballs. When using a CO2 air source, it is common for liquid CO2 to enter the paintball gun. This can cause several problems, including damage to the paintball gun and inability to fire. The Tippmann A5 will also become cold and may develop frost around the barrel. There are several reasons why liquid may enter the Tippmann A5 during a paintball game.


CO2 versus HPA


CO2 and HPA are two different types of air sources that can be used on a Tippmann A5. A CO2 tank holds compressed carbon dioxide, while an HPA tank holds pressurized air. An HPA tank does not contain any liquid so there is no risk of liquid entering a Tippmann A5 paintball gun. CO2 tanks, by design, must contain liquid CO2. Liquid will only enter the Tippmann A5 when a CO2 tank is attached.


Gravity


Gravity is a major factor in causing liquid to enter a Tippmann A5 from the CO2 tank. When a paintball gun is tilted down, even at a slight angle, this allows liquid to enter the paintball gun. When the paintball gun is level with the ground or tilted upwards, no liquid will enter the gun.


Bottom Line


A bottom line is a series of parts that connects the CO2 tank to the Tippmann A5. The CO2 tank is connected to the bottom of the trigger frame. A hose then carries CO2 to the paintball gun. This setup allows a paintball player to comfortably hold the Tippmann A5 and the CO2 tank, but can cause liquid to enter the gun. An alternative to a bottom line is using a remote line. A remote line allows the paintball player to carry the CO2 tank on his belt, and a hose extends to the paintball gun. When using a remote line, the top of the CO2 tank is always facing upward, reducing the risk of liquid entering the paintball gun.


Rapid Firing


Shooting the Tippmann A5 rapidly can also cause liquid to enter the gun. Every time the paintball gun is fired, there is a small opportunity for liquid to seep into the gun. If the paintball gun is fired slowly, this liquid will dissipate and not cause any problems. However, rapid firing allows this liquid to build up, causing problems. When liquid builds up, it is best to stop shooting for a few minutes, or until the paintball gun returns to a normal temperature.







Tags: enter Tippmann, liquid enter, liquid enter, remote line, Tippmann tank