Are there different types of CO2 cartridges?

Yes, there are different types of CO2 cartridges, and they are categorized based on a number of factors to suit their specific application. Here are the structured categories:

1. Size/Capacity

Small (e.g. 8g, 12g): Commonly found in portable devices such as bicycle tire inflators, airsoft guns, and small paintball guns.

Medium (e.g. 16g, 25g): Used in large paintball guns, soda machines, and some air guns.

Large (e.g. 33g, 74g): Suitable for larger capacity applications such as home beverage carbonation systems or industrial tools.

2. Valve Type

Threaded (Punched): Devices with a built-in pin that must be screwed into the pump to be used (common in beverage vending machines and bicycle pumps).

Pin-operated: Uses an external pin that punctures the cartridge when tightened (common in paintball and airsoft guns).

Non-perforated: Pre-perforated for quick release, often used in industrial settings.

3. Materials

Steel: Standard material used for most cartridges due to its durability and compression resistance.

Aluminum: Less common and sometimes used for lightweight or special applications.

4. Specific Application Capabilities

Food Grade: Certified for use by beverage/carbonated beverage manufacturers, ensuring CO₂ purity and safe material for consumption.

Lubricant: Contains silicone oil for maintenance of mechanical parts of air guns or paintball markers.

Industrial Grade: Used for non-consumable applications such as pneumatic tools or refrigeration.

5. Connection/Thread Compatibility

Varies by region and device (e.g. European and American soda machines may have different threads).

Paintball and air guns generally use standard threads (e.g. 12g threads for CO₂ pistols).

6. Disposable vs. Refillable

Disposable: Single-use and widely used in consumer applications.

Refillable: Rarely used in some industrial or mass production environments. 7. Certification and Security

DOT/TPED certification: Meets transportation safety regulations (e.g. for shipping).

Explosion-proof disc: Includes safety device to prevent overpressure.

Main applications:

Beverage/carbonated beverage machines: Requires food grade threaded cartridges (e.g. 16g or 25g).

Paintball/air guns: Uses pin-actuated 12g or 16g cartridges and occasionally requires lubrication.

Bicycle pumps: Typically 12g or 16g threaded barrels.

Industrial tools: Large barrels with high pressure ratings.

Note: Always check compatibility of size, thread type and CO₂ rating for safe and effective use. Misuse (e.g. non-food grade beverages) may pose a health or safety hazard.