STEM Clubs

School: Temple Moor High School Science College Status: In progress Date Started: 15 Jul 2010 Keywords tags: Rockets Physics Chemistry No of pupils: 0 Number of views: 201548 Related Resources:

"The Temple Moor STEM team have been working on research development and construction of the infamous tennis ball mortar.

We have been trying to construct a device to shoot tennis balls over the school building. We took a plan from backyard ballistics to build our initial mortar and have been working on improvements and modifications ever since.

So far, we have developed an electrical ignition system using NiChrome wire and have improved the propellant fuel. We initially were using Naptha as a fuel but since have moved to aerosol based products; ranging from deodorants to hair spray. We are yet to decide on a preferred fuel for consistent use.

To date, we have managed to reach heights ranging from 50 feet to 75 feet
well over the height of the school building. We have previously made the baffles smaller therefore increasing the pressure propelling the ball further.
We are continuing to develop the design of varying aspects of the mortar to ensure maximum range of firing.

Watch this space!

"