K.L. and B.J. Kosanke Introduction: In addition to satisfying general curiosity, there are technical questions requiring knowledge of aerial shell velocity. For example, a calculation of how far down range aerial shells will have traveled at various times after having been fired from highly angled mortars requires knowledge of the shell’s muzzle velocity and its …
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Month:March 2007
The Role of the Expert Witness
K.L. Kosanke There is a good deal of misunderstanding as to the role of the expert witness in our legal system. Because of this; because I think the subject is intrinsically interesting; and because no one else has chosen to present the subject in an article for the fireworks trade, I have decided to make …
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Electric Ignition of Shock Tube Firing Systems
K.L. Kosanke NOMATCH™ is a new system for igniting fireworks that replaces quick match with shock tube plus flame-to-shock (or electric-to-shock) and shock-to-flame attachments. The system was introduced by B & C Products, Inc., with a press release included in the July 1994 Issue of American Fireworks News, an article in the July 1994 issue …
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“Skip Burning” of Visco Fuse
K.L. and B.J. Kosanke In late December 1978 more than 100 serious injuries were reported in eastern Kentucky, apparently the result of defective visco fuse.[1] The defective fuse had been used by a manufacturer of M-80’s and other illegal consumer devices. These devices “exploded as soon as they were lit”, apparently while still being held …
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Successful Bidding and Performance on Government Fireworks Display Contracts
K.L. and B.J Kosanke Over the years the authors have had experience with government contracting from both sides: in selecting and monitoring contractors for the government and as holders of government contracts. In this article we would like to share some general information about contracting with the federal government and about contracting for fireworks displays …
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Electric Matches & Squibs
K.L. and B.J. Kosanke The terms electric match and squib are often used interchangeably in the fireworks industry. However, there are at least two good reasons not to do this, one technical and one legal. Technically, these are two different items both in terms of form and function. Legally, although both are Class C explosives …
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Lancework — Pictures in Fire
B.J. and K.L. Kosanke ABSTRACT: Lancework set pieces can be one of the most interesting forms of fireworks. If one uses highquality lance formulas, skillfully designed lance figures, provides clever animation, or tells an interesting story, the intertainment value of lancework can reach the heights it should. This article describes the methods used by the …
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Fireworks Displays — Abnormally Dangerous Activity ? ? ?
K.L. Kosanke Most of the fireworks display industry is aware of the ruling of the Washington state supreme court, which declared the conducting of fireworks displays to be an abnormally dangerous activity.[1] In part, that ruling was based on their considered opinion that, by their very nature, fireworks displays could not be performed safely. One …
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Explosions and Detonations
K.L. Kosanke The proper use of technical and scientific terms is fundamentally important for clear and effective communication. It is also a mark of a professional to use the vocabulary correctly. Toward that end, the following brief article is offered. There are a series of notes [a–e] included for additional and qualifying information at the …
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Aluminum Metal Powders Used in Pyrotechnics
K.L. and B.J Kosanke [This article is an updated, enlarged version of one originally appearing in Pyrotechnics GuildInternational Bulletin Nos. 27 and 28 (1981– 82).] Of those chemicals used in pyrotechnics (with the possible exception of charcoal) aluminum metal powders have the ability to produce the greatest variety and range of effects. Thus, mastery of …
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