Water Rocketry is a fun event that requires both skill and
resourcefulness. Participants will have to make rockets using
plastic bottles, which thrust water due to pressurized air. Be the
backyard scientist you always wanted to be and unleash your
creativity here!
Design a water rocket that is completely powered by the thrust
delivered by water expelled at high pressure, along with its
launchpad.
It consists of two rounds.
Round 1: Range Test:
Eliminative round
The rocket has to travel a minimum cutoff distance of 90 m. The projection angle is up to the participants.
The points will be considered according to the following relation:
Total Points = Range (in metres)/5
Round 2: Reaching the Target:
Tests the stability and accuracy of the rocket.
Two chances will be provided for launching the rocket.
Scores will be based on the Target zone on which the rocket lands.
Total Points = P + (time Taken)
Rules:
Maximum of 3 participants in each team. Individual participation is also allowed.
All energy given to the rocket must come only from water/air pressure combination. No other source of energy is allowed.
The teams will be disqualified/given another chance to remodel if their model is found to be dangerous in any way. No glass or sharp objects should be used in making the rockets.
Water rockets have multiple stages. Parachute, gliding and other mechanical launch mechanisms are allowed. Booster mechanisms are allowed as well.
You are only allowed to use plastic bottles specifically designed for holding pressure, or that have been pressure tested (for example carbonated-drink bottles).
More than one bottle can be used but the maximum capacity of the bottle/bottles should be 2.5L. It is not necessary for both the bottles to be identical.
Only water should be used as the working fluid. No other fluid is allowed. Participants should only use the water provided by organizers.
Foot pumps will be provided by the organizers, this pump is compatible with standard bike valves. Participants must only use the pump provided by the organizers.
Participants can make different models for different rounds but the volume and the bottles provided should be the same.
Use of electronic components and chemical explosives is banned.
Judging Criteria:
The final judgment is based on the total points scored by the team in round 2.
The distance of the water rocket will be measured from the start to the first point of contact of rocket with the ground.
The decision of the judges is final and binding
FAQs:
Can we change the volume/capacity of the bottle?
No, The capacity of the bottle is fixed in all rounds as per the limits of the rules.
Is there a time limit for pressure-pump launch for every water rocket attempt?
Yes. A maximum of 45 seconds under pressure loading is allowed before launching the water rocket.
Can school students participate as well?
No.
Are there any prerequisites?
Building a water rocket is both fun and quite an easy task. Basic designing and fundamentals in aeromodelling would be sufficient.
Will a launch pad be provided?
Not under any circumstance. The team has to deal with their launch pads in case it gets damaged or broken. Sharing of launch pads among teams is strictly prohibited even if they are from the same college, failing which the team(s) will get disqualified.
Will any materials be provided on the spot?
The organisation only provides water, a measuring cup, a bucket, and a pump. Other materials will NOT be provided. However, you can buy items from stationery shops on campus.
