Pressurized Carbonation Vessels....soda pop cans

What's the pressure inside the can?

Experimental procedure:

1. install gage
2. balance strain indicator
3. pop the top
4. watch strain readings decrease as the contents equalize with the atmosphere

Theory:

• p = 2tEe_c / r (2-n)
• t = 0.004", E = 10E6 psi, r = 1.3", n = 0.33

Conclusions:

• Opening the can decreased the pressure by 50 psi.

Does tapping the top help control fizz?

Experimental procedure:

1. install gage
2. shake can
3. balance strain indicator
4. watch strain readings decrease as the contents return to equilibrium

Conclusions:

• Shaking the can increased the pressure by 3.5 psi.
• Tapping didn't help! The pressure decreased at the same rate with or without tapping.

Fizziks Questions Answered

What happens in the fridge?

Experimental procedure:

1. install gage
2. balance strain indicator
3. place can in fridge
4. watch strain readings decrease as the contents cool and approach equilibrium

Conclusions:

• Refrigerating the can overnight decreased the pressure by 24 psi.

A hard-working BE 120 section enjoys a cold refreshing beverage...

• The Real Thing
• The Real Thing Revisited
• The Real Thing Revisited (Again)

by Measurements Group