Category:JPyro – Articles

Kenneth L. and Bonnie J. Kosanke ABSTRACT: A concussion mortar can be defined as a device used to produce a noise and jarring shock for dramatic effect at events such as stage productions. It consists of a thick-walled tube, closed at one end to form a combustion chamber (barrel). A type of pyrotechnic flash powder …
Continue reading Concussion Mortar Internal Pressure, Recoil and Overpressure as Functions of Powder Mass

Wesley D. Smith ABSTRACT:This is the first in a series of tutorials that introduce the concepts of chemistry to practicing pyrotechnists. It begins with the fundamental ideas of atoms and molecules. The reactions of these entities, together with their symbols, their nomenclature, their stoichiometry, and their energetics, are then described with pyrotechnic examples. Keywords: chemistry, …
Continue reading Introductory Chemistry for Pyrotechnists, Part 1: Atoms, Molecules, and Their Interactions

Stewart G. Myatt ABSTRACT: This paper reports results taken from a wider investigation of the effect of various parameters on the fragmentation behaviour of steel firework mortar tubes. During simulated misfire experimental information was obtained relating to the role of the weld in determining rupture behaviour in seamed steel mortar tubes. The results have helped …
Continue reading Observations on the Behaviour of Seamed Steel Mortar Tubes

 Roland K. Wharton ABSTRACT: This paper examines previously published information on the heights attained by spherical firework shells and proposes some empirical relationships that enable rough estimates to be made of the height attained from knowledge of either the mass or the diameter of the shell. Keywords: shell height, shell mass, lift charge mass, shell …
Continue reading Observations on the Heights Attained by Spherical Fireworks Shells