The Effect of Mortar Diameter on the Burst Height of Three-Inch Spherical Aerial Shells

K. L. and B. J. Kosanke

Background: A while ago, a small fireworks display company called seeking information about the effect of mortar internal diameter on the burst height expected to be achieved by aerial shells fired from them. It seems the company had received a large quantity of three-inch, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe that they had cut into 18- inch lengths for mortars (including 1.5-inch thick plugs) before having checked the pipe’s internal diameter. When it was checked, the HDPE pipe was found to have an internal diameter of 3.21 inches (i.e., it was significantly oversize). Because it was close to the July 4th holiday season, there was not sufficient time to replace the pipe. Accordingly, the question was, could these mortars be safely used?


Ref: Selected Pyrotechnic Publication of K.L. and B.J Kosanke, Part 6, (2001-2002), pp 54-56
(K6_54)

© Journal of Pyrotechnics and CarnDu Ltd



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