Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-12-31 Origin: Site
A 12g CO₂ cartridge stores carbon dioxide ascompressed gas under high pressure, making it a compact yet powerful energy source for airguns, BB guns, airsoft pistols, inflators, and CO₂-powered tools. Understanding the pressure inside a 12g CO₂ cartridge helps users improve performance, choose compatible equipment, and ensure safe handling.
This article explains how much pressure is in a 12g CO₂ cartridge, how temperature affects compressed CO₂ gas pressure, and what safety margins are built into quality steel cartridges.
A standard 12g CO₂ cartridge filled with compressed carbon dioxide gas typically operates at approximately 800–900 PSI (55–62 bar) at room temperature (70°F / 21°C).
Because the CO₂ is stored as high-pressure gas, the internal pressure gradually decreases as gas is released, rather than remaining constant throughout use.
A 12g CO₂ cartridge is a sealed steel cylinder containing 12 grams of compressed carbon dioxide gas. These cartridges are designed to deliver controlled gas output when punctured or pierced inside a compatible device.
Unlike refillable tanks, a disposable 12g CO₂ cartridge relies on compressed gas pressure rather than regulators or valves inside the cartridge itself.
Storing CO₂ as compressed gas allows precise filling by weight, predictable pressure behavior, and compatibility with a wide range of airguns and inflator systems.
When punctured, compressed CO₂ gas flows from the cartridge into the device’s expansion chamber.
The device—not the cartridge—controls gas flow. As gas is consumed, internal pressure inside the 12g CO₂ cartridge steadily decreases.
The pressure inside a 12g CO₂ cartridge depends primarily on temperature and the remaining amount of compressed gas.
At room temperature, a full 12g CO₂ cartridge typically measures 800–900 PSI , providing sufficient energy for consistent operation in airguns and tools.
High-quality steel cartridges maintain predictable pressure curves, ensuring smooth performance without sudden pressure loss.
| Unit | Typical Pressure |
|---|---|
| PSI | 800–900 PSI |
| Bar | 55–62 bar |
| MPa | 5.5–6.2 MPa |
Because CO₂ is stored as compressed gas, temperature directly affects gas density and pressure. In a 12g CO₂ cartridge, even moderate temperature changes can lead to noticeable differences in pressure output. This is why environmental conditions play a critical role in real-world performance across airguns, inflators, and CO₂-powered tools.
Lower temperatures reduce gas pressure inside a 12g CO₂ cartridge, which may affect velocity and cycling. As the gas cools, molecular movement slows, resulting in lower expansion energy when the cartridge is discharged. This pressure reduction is especially noticeable during outdoor use in winter or cold climates.
Cold conditions can result in slower FPS, weaker blowback, and reduced overall efficiency.
Higher temperatures increase internal gas pressure. When a 12g CO₂ cartridge is exposed to heat, gas molecules move faster and exert greater force on the cartridge walls. This pressure increase can temporarily boost performance but also raises safety concerns if temperature limits are exceeded.
Quality steel cartridges are engineered with safety margins, but exposure to extreme heat should always be avoided.
A properly manufactured 12g CO₂ cartridgeis safe when used as intended. These cartridges are designed specifically for controlled gas release in compatible devices such as airguns, inflators, and CO₂-powered tools. Safety depends largely on manufacturing quality, material selection, and adherence to proper usage guidelines.
Steel wall thickness, material strength, and forming accuracy determine how much pressure a cartridge can safely withstand.
Excessive heat or physical damage can raise internal pressure beyond safe limits, increasing risk of leakage or rupture.
Stable compressed gas pressure ensures consistent FPS, reliable cycling, and better accuracy.
In airsoft pistols and inflators, predictable 12g CO₂ cartridge pressure improves efficiency and user control.
Store cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
High-quality sealing and precision steel construction help prevent long-term gas leakage.
FAIRDALE (Changzhou) Metal Tools Co., Ltd manufactures precision steel 12g CO₂ cartridges designed for stable compressed gas pressure and reliable sealing. Each cartridge is produced with controlled wall thickness and tested to meet safety and performance requirements.
Uniform steel structure helps ensure consistent pressure behavior throughout the cartridge’s service life.
Every production batch undergoes pressure and leakage inspection to ensure dependable performance in airguns, inflators, and tools.
How many PSI is a 12g CO₂ cartridge?
Typically around 800–900 PSI at room temperature.
Does pressure drop during use?
Yes. Since the CO₂ is stored as compressed gas, pressure decreases gradually as gas is released.
Can a 12g CO₂ cartridge explode during normal use?
A properly manufactured 12g CO₂ cartridge is safe under normal operating conditions. The risk of failure mainly comes from overheating or physical damage, not regular use.
How can I safely store a 12g CO₂ cartridge?
Store the 12g CO₂ cartridge in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. Avoid using damaged or corroded cartridges.
A 12g CO₂ cartridge stores compressed carbon dioxide gas at high pressure, delivering compact and reliable energy for a wide range of applications. Choosing well-manufactured steel cartridges ensures predictable pressure, consistent performance, and safe operation.
