An Observation Regarding: “Fireworks Shell Drift due to Shell-to-Bore Clearance”

K. L. Kosanke ABSTRACT: Some empirical evidence is presented in support of a recent suggestion by R. K. Norton that a significant portion of aerial shell drift may simply be the result of shell-to-bore clearance. The support for this stems from the observation that aerial shells, during the very earliest portion of their free flight, …
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Pyrotechnic Delays and Thermal Sources

M. A. Wilson and R. J. Hancox ABSTRACT: The technology associated with pyrotechnic delays, together with the many factors, both physical and chemical, that affect the performance of delay compositions and influence the design of delay elements have been outlined. The production of heat by thermite and thermate systems is similarly discussed. Keywords: pyrotechnics, gassy …
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Bridgewire Temperature Estimation Using a Constant Current Supply

L. Weinman Introduction: A brief description is presented of a means of measuring the average temperature of a bridgewire during firing using a constant current source. Many functional tests of electroexplosive devices, such as electric matches, utilize a constant current power supply as part of the firing circuit, as this is the only way to comply …
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Speculation on the Explosive Decomposition of “Yellow Powder”

Bob Foreman, Jerry Ittenbach, and Calvin Swartzendruber Introduction: Attending a short-course in pyrotechnic chemistry provided the opportunity for the authors to study a little-understood historic explosive currently viewed primarily as a novelty and chemical curiosity. Part of the course was the preparation of a seminar. The instructors proposed the “yellow powder” seminar topic for the authors. …
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Evaluation of Lithium Compounds as Color Agents for Pyrotechnic Flames

Ernst-Christian Koch ABSTRACT: The obstacles to producing red colored pyrotechnic flames with lithium compounds are discussed. The principle emitter of red light in such flames is atomic lithium. Hydrogen and halogens in the flame gases are expected to have a substantial effect on the concentration of atomic lithium. The development of effective Libased red color …
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Hypotheses Regarding “Star-Shell-Detonations”

K. L. and B. J. Kosanke ABSTRACT: Fireworks star shells occasionally explode upon firing while they are still inside the mortar.  Most often, this occurs with approximately the same level of violence as when the shell explodes after having left the mortar, and often even relatively weak mortars survive the experience intact. While unnerving to …
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A Ground Test Rocket Thrust Measurement System

Mary Fran Desrochers, Gary W. Olsen, and M. K. Hudson ABSTRACT: A strain gauge thrust measurement system is described for rocket motor ground testing. The unit uses sigmoid beams to hold the rocket motor in place, with the strain gauges mounted on these beams. The theory and usage of strain gauges is briefly discussed, along …
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Applying Explosives Testing Techniques To Obtain Insight into the Explosion (Or Is It Detonation?). Phenomenon of Piles of Fireworks

E. Contestabile ABSTRACT: There are times when the legal system requires so-called expert witnesses. Whether it is with regard to terrorist or criminal activities or accidents, the expert is often confronted with explaining the dreaded term “detonation”. The attempt to explain such a catastrophic event often brings about the use of similes. In this paper, …
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Review of: Protection against Substances Hazardous to Health – Confederation of British Industry

Protection against Substances Hazardous to Health – Confederation of British Industry Review by Monona Rossol This Guide was produced by a joint working party of the Explosives Industry Group of the Confederation of British Industry, including the Ministry of Defense and the Health and Safety Executive. Its purpose is to provide advice to those who …
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