9 replies to this topic

[pyromaniac]

hey im not sure if which forum this shuld go in and if this is the wrong 1 im sorry . but neway im thinkin of doin a charge for a special fx mortar hit or similar and i was thinkin of usin a 35mm camera case 3/4 full of flash. and knowin that flash is sensitive to static electricity i was wonderin if the camera film case may generate static ?? if i use this idea is there a possibility of a danger of an unwanted explosion from a possible build up of a static charge? any help or suggetsions wuld be greatly apprieciated

[bernie]

I'm glad your the one that is going to be snappin' the lid on. I was always taught that plastic and flash don't mix for the very reason that you mentioned. A film cannister that is 3/4 full will completely ruin your day if she goes prematurely. If you insist on doing a 'hit' at least search around the forum and see how it is done more professionally. When people get in a hurry and use what is on hand instead of following protocal is when folks get hurt. Things are done a certain way for a reason.

[pyromaniac]

ok thanx u probaly just saved mi hand! ill reconsider and use a nice safe cardboard tube

[adamw]

If I remember correctly, the plastic used to make film containers is especially prone to generating static. Plastic is used in fireworks quite a lot, such as Rapid Assembly Plastic for shells, even flash maroons, but the type will be especially selected to reduce the problem of static. If you want to be as safe as you can, cardboard or paper is always the best bet.

[Stuart]

And the detonation velocity on flash and its tendance to go pop even when unconfined means you dont need a special container.

[bernie]

It never even entered my mind that manufactures use plastic shells. Doh.

[mrpyromx]

there are the plastic shells but i think there a differant type of plastic, lets say you have hair on your arms and you take one of those plastic shells and run it down your arm, the hair dont stand up but take a film canister it makes the hair stand right up.its your choice to use one but god be careful.weather you use paper or plastic, the effect is going to be the same. nothing is going to be left when lite. less chance of shrapnal with paper, unless you use a wood plug or hot glue plug then you just asking for trouble.

[adamw]

Stuart, how did that D word sneak in there... we're talking about flash powder remember!

[Stuart]

Sorry great one, please forgive me as I offer this humble phrase-

And speed that flash defragulates and its tendance to go pop even when unconfined means you dont need a special container.

[adamw]

Just say "its damn powerful"

... and dont patronise me!