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How Effective is a Water Heater As a Cannon? | MythBusters
MythBusters take on fan requests, first attempting to turn a water heater into a horizontal cannon and then trying out some delicate operations with heavy machinery.
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In this special episode of MythBusters, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman tackle fan-submitted challenges, revisiting previous experiments with a twist. The central theme is "Revenge of the Myths," where fans suggest ways to "bump up a level" or "ramp it way up" on myths the team has already explored.
The Water Heater Cannon: Horizontal Havoc
The first fan request brings back a MythBusters favorite: exploding water heaters. Previously, the team launched water heaters vertically, turning them into impressive rockets. This time, fans want to know what happens if a water heater is pointed horizontally, essentially transforming it into a cannon. Adam and Jamie head to the bomb range, armed with a water heater and a red van as their target. Jamie sets up the water heater, ensuring it's equipped with pressure sensors and a relief valve—crucial safety measures that will later be disabled for the experiment. Adam, meanwhile, customizes the red van with a large target painted on its side, ready to face the explosive force. The setup involves filling the water heater with 30 gallons of water and securing it firmly in place with straps and a mini bulldozer for containment. The team then retreats to a bunker, monitoring the pressure as it steadily climbs. They know from experience that a significant explosion won't occur until the pressure surpasses 300 PSI. After a tense wait, the pressure reaches 305 PSI, hitting the "butter zone." The water heater explodes with immense force, launching its bottom casing and other debris. The impact is staggering: the 5,000-pound van is knocked onto its side, and the 6,000-pound mini loader is also moved, popping a wheelie. The force generated by boiling water is clearly demonstrated, proving that a water heater can indeed act as a powerful cannon.
Keep reading in The Digest
The full 4-minute article, 3 more sections, and every new episode from MythBusters and the creators you follow.
- Designing the Ultimate Steam Cannon
- Steam Cannon vs. Old Moses: A Test of Power
- Excavator Exuberance: Delicate Operations with Heavy Machinery
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