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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Month:January 2007
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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A Brief Introduction to Noise and Data Filtering
L. Weinman ABSTRACT: This brief article examines some aspects of noise and the effects of filters applied to data. Keywords: signals, data acquisition, noise, data filter, digital filter, pyrotechnic, experimental design Ref: JPyro, Issue 14, 2001, pp40-44 (J14_40)
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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Our Present Knowledge of the Chemistry of Black Powder
Ian von Maltitz ABSTRACT: Black Powder has been around for centuries and has had a profound influence on the history of the world. Over this time, a considerable amount of knowledge has been gained that not only sheds light on the chemistry of Black Powder but also on other pyrotechnic reactions. This knowledge cannot be …
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Thermal Techniques Used in the Hazard Evaluation of Pyrotechnics
P. D. Lightfoot, R. C. Fouchard, A.-M. Turcotte, Q. S. M. Kwok and D. E. G. Jones ABSTRACT: A hazard assessment provides important information for determination of safe conditions for the manufacture, storage and transportation of pyrotechnics. Sensitivity to thermal stimuli is an important aspect of an overall hazard assessment. This paper describes a number …
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