4 replies to this topic

[adam1717]

Hello all,

I have an unused flare and am interested in powdering it to use in rockets for a red flash.
The flare is about 20cm tall and has a diameter of 4cm.
Does anyone know a way of removing the inside of the flare without possibly igniting it?

Thanks,
Adam

[RegimentalPyro]

I do not believe this can be done without an unacceptable level of risk. You do not know whether the composition is friction sensitive or not, and therefore risk injuring yourself seriously whilst extracting it.

If you require a red flash then it's time to start making your own composition. there are plently of formula's out there

[Creepin_pyro]

Further to Regi's sound advice, I don't think there would be much point extracting the composition to use it as red flash. Distress flares are designed to burn extremely slowly, so it would be unsuitable for use as a flash composition.

[BrightStar]

When I was experimenting with flare comps, I found some MSDS sheets for commercial flares. Here are some examples of 'active ingredients' listed (there may be other ingredients in addition):

From Ikaros Red Flare MSDS:

Strontium nitrate 40-50
Magnesium 30-40
Parlon 10 to 20
Linseed oil 1 to 5

Pains Wessex Red Flare MSDS:

Strontium nitrate <40g
Magnesium <40g
PVC <10g
Potassium perchlorate <10g
Binder <7g

These would likely be tricky to grind up and as above, not worth the risk. Also, the pull cord / scratch ignitior system would be very dangerous to disassemble.

Why not just use the flare as is... I used a couple in the build up to a small display to build tension in the audience, lighting up the firing site from behind with a 2 minute warning...

[adam1717]

Ok, Thanks for the advice