57 replies to this topic

[pyromaniac303]

Although on the first post I said I would use Bleser Red stars (perchlorate based) in one of the starmines, I decided to go for a chlorate based one with a similar formula, just substitute the perchlorate for chlorate (see lancaster reds and bleser reds on the PFP database, theyre practically identical!) This was to avoid having to prime the stars.

The problem is that I will need to use H3 as the lift charge, I don't want to risk making sulfurless BP only to find out a trace of sulfur from my ball mill somehow managed to get in there.

Anyone have any experience using H3 in lift charges?

(if this is a repeat post then I apologise, but there is a letter limit on the search function, and H3 is too few letters)

[Richard H]

While I appreciate your rationale, you are perhaps being over cautious. Naturally this is not a bad thing and you must be applauded for your school of thought. It is conducive to becoming an old pyro

In the trade, both chlorate and non-chlorate stars have always been, and still are lifted with traditional blackpowder lifting charges. Lancaster has the following to say.

Chlorate stars are coated with blackpowder-type mixtures, and it must be admitted that in present times, this does not seem to be a major problem....

It has been unofficially agreed (by some) that:

The sulphur could be present only as an ingrediant of gunpowder or a similarly formulated composition to be used as an igniting or bursting charge.

You should not have any problems lifting your chlorate stars in a mine with a conventional blackpowder lifting charge.

[pyromaniac303]

You should not have any problems lifting your chlorate stars in a mine with a conventional blackpowder lifting charge.

Thanks for the advice.

I've decided for the final effect to make one 5" shell instead of 2 4" shells, and make extra star mines. Just got around 2000 crackling microstars finished drying (from only 100g of comp!). Most of the rocket headers which were previously going to be 1 3/4" have been upgraded to 3". What progress is everyone else making with your displays?

[fishy1]

Thanks for the advice.

I've decided for the final effect to make one 5" shell instead of 2 4" shells, and make extra star mines. Just got around 2000 crackling microstars finished drying (from only 100g of comp!). Most of the rocket headers which were previously going to be 1 3/4" have been upgraded to 3". What progress is everyone else making with your displays?

I spent a bit of time yesterday grinding up masses of charcoal, thought I'd never finish. Tonight, I'm off to build a rocket stand.

[The_Djinn]

Hell, Nov 5th just a week away and no one is posting show listings ??

Here is a few to start the ball rolling..

Legoland 27th/28th/29th - A must for the family orientated
St Johns Cambridge 1st
Kimbolton School 3rd - A must for those who like to see the set pieces in action

come on guy's.. there is enough crew people on this forum that are doing public shows around the country and if we list the shows then people who are not far away can get to see what we do.

[Richard H]

Just doing private shows this year to be honest! Biggest is a show at Broughton Hall, near Skipton on the 3rd. Lobbing upto 12", most of it hand fired too.

[Stew]

anyone that lives near lewes will more than likely be coming to lewes bonfire on the 4th anyway! got set pieces tableu and aerial stuff. going to be another good show this year!

[Mortartube]

I'll be at Lewes, probably helping with the fusing up on the guy or pope for Cliffe Bonfire Society. I seem to get roped in every year, but at least it's a bit of fun. I assume that you are in the lewes area Stew?

[Stew]

yeh i live in lewes. im on the tab and aerial team for commercial square. help out with a bit of everything really! our tab is getting there atleast and start fusing aerial stuff soon

[Mortartube]

Right, I'm in Newhaven. Small world and my other halfs parents have one of your torch dumps in their garden in Landport Road. There's nowhere like Lewes on the 5th (4th this year of course).

[Stew]

indeed there isn't. what do you march in the cliffe as then? oo its only like 10 days to go!!

[Mortartube]

Yes, I march with the Cliffe. Look out for me, I'll be in a black & white stripey jumper and white trousers lol!

[Ritual33]

Anyone doing a display in or around Rochdale?

[skywalker]

Ill be at Lewis this year. More than likely in the Rainbow pub/bar next to the court. Got an air bed there so no 2 mile que for the train back to Brighton . If anyone wants to meet up 4 a beer let me know, would be nice to actually meet some faces from the forum.

All the best

lukey

[Ritual33]

Where is that mate?