6 replies to this topic

[knackers]

could somebody please tell me if i could use MgAl, 50/50 for strobe effects or would i be wasting it, the formulas call for just Mg but all i have is MgAl, my mesh range is multi, and it ranges between 80 and 250, IIFC

sorry if this should be in the stars section

[BrightStar]

could somebody please tell me if i could use MgAl, 50/50 for strobe effects

Yup, no problem. Try this:

Blesser #26 white strobe:

Barium nitrate - 51 (caution - toxic)
Sulfur - 19
Magnalium (100 mesh granular) - 18
Potassium nitrate - 7
Dextrin - 5

Dampen and hand press into a paper tube for a ground effect or roll no larger than 5/16" for stars (any larger they'll burn all the way to the ground...). The barium nitrate should be finely powdered. The strobe frequency can be adjusted with the MgAl granulation (finer = faster) up to about 300-mesh where you'll get a shimmering effect.

Edited by BrightStar, 17 April 2009 - 09:17 AM.

[Creepin_pyro]

I'm assuming you're looking something similar to the Shimizu set of strobes, with Sulphates and Mg.

Strobes can be made with MgAl but I don't think you would be able to substitute 1:1 in those formulas - there are loads of formulas out there. Both Nitrates and AP-based ones.

[Arthur Brown]

The strobe rate depends on the particle size, so a wide range will give problems trying to strobe at all rates at once. Get some finer cuts say 25 - 30 or 50 - 60.

[BrightStar]

a wide range will give problems trying to strobe at all rates at once

I suggest just testing with the particular blend you have to hand. Several manufacturers combine a coarse grade and fine grade to tune the strobe rate so I suspect a 80 - 250 mesh mix might work, even if it's not optimal.

Edited by BrightStar, 17 April 2009 - 02:41 PM.

[knackers]

many thanks for your help guys, ive posted a few vids in "post your vids" and must say' [ my little experience and ability to make and fire shells is getting better and largely due to being a member here with the friendly advice given by members such as youselves ] , i'll give the Blesser #26 ago, and post my vid when i have.

[pyrotrev]

Reading between the lines of the Shimizu formulas, I guess 50/50MgAl will give paler, whiter colours than pure Mg. If Cooperman has any of the 65/35 MgAl left that might do better.