Build Your Air Rocket Launcher

DIY Air Rocket Launcher – do you have a future rocket scientist in the house? 

This design also ships with: hours of fun for the whole family!

Simply put – an air rocket launcher is a device used to launch paper or plastic rockets. It consists of a structure that holds the rocket in a vertical position, a pump to generate compressed air, and a release valve to launch the rocket. The rocket is typically made of lightweight materials, and is propelled by the release of compressed air upon launch. 

The above design is super-fast to build, affordable, and relatively safe to operate. The PVC pipe is sturdy and reliable, and the build process itself can be educational. 

Ideal for: families, DIY projects, education, holidays, parties, and more. 

Ready to build your own? Great! Just check out the DIY build guide and diagrams below to get started. 

Instructions 

A note before starting. 

Please understand - the below diagrams are genuinely and carefully designed to help you navigate the build process. However, we don’t include specific recommendations for which tools, hardware, and products to use, and so on. These truly are “DIY” designs. 

We do, however, have a few generic recommendations for working with PVC. 

And as always, please be safe!

PVC Air Rocket Launcher Kit Parts List

Part icon
2" Tube - 7" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
2
Part icon
2" Tube - 3" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1" Tube - 3" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
3
Part icon
1" Tube - 12" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1" Tube - 5" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
2
Part icon
1/2" Tube - 12" Length
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
2" Tee Female Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
2" Cap Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1/2" x 2" Reducer Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1/4" x 1/2" x Bushing Male Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1/4” Tank Valve
Metal - Brass
1
Part icon
1" x 2" Reducer Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1" Adapter Male Threaded PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
2
Part icon
1" Solenoid Valve
Accessory - Mixed
1
Part icon
1" Wye Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1" Tee Female Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1
Part icon
1" Cap Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
2
Part icon
1/2" x 1" Reducer Slip PVC
PVC - Standard PVC
1

How to build a compressed air rocket launcher

How do you know which part is which from the parts list? Click on "Edit Design in 3D" button above and you'll be able to click on each part to see its name.

Step 1 

First, you’ll want to assemble the front support for your launcher. This section consists of six pieces. 

Use the diagram above to locate the necessary pieces. Then, connect them as pictured, using the visuals as a reference. 

Once you’re done, set the finished structure aside until Step 5.

Step 2

Now for the barrel. 

Locate the four pieces in the diagram above, and then assemble them in the manner pictured. 

Please note: you’ll want to ensure that these pieces are firmly attached to each other, and that nothing is obstructing the inside of your barrel!

Step 3

Up next: the electric solenoid. 

Once you’re done attaching all the pieces in the above diagram, go ahead and set this finished assembly aside. And again, you’ll want to make sure all these pieces are firmly attached to each other.

Step 4

Now it’s time to build your pressure chamber. 

As you’re assembling the above pieces in the manner shown, please remember: it’s important for all connections in this module to be airtight and sealed. As such, please take care when installing the smaller ¼” tank valve and bushing.

Step 5

Almost there! It’s time to put it all together now.

For this step, just go ahead and attach all your finished modules in the manner shown above. 

And please remember: it’s super important to let all your connections dry and/or cure properly if you’re using cement or glue to affix your tubing. 

We know you’re eager to get launching! But we do have to recommend waiting the appropriate amount of time before putting your new rocket launcher into operation. 

And that’s it!

Happy launching!

Finished Product in 3D!