19 replies to this topic

[Peret]

I use 70:30 flash in my crossettes and can't say I even notice the flash, though they are definitely audible. I use a titanium comp for fat white streamers and they're pretty bright.

[Sparky]

There are flash comps that use Antimony Trisulfide that reduce the light output of the break. There are some safety considerations though with these formula as they are more sensitive than the old faithful KP / Dark Alu.

[Pyro.1]

Dont get me wrong , i do use flash and will continue on bright metal comps, i may give the dark salute comps a try, i made some 65 20 15 aerial dark salutes a while back, they were quite dark, not complete but may do the trick.
its mainly on the reds and greens and a few other delicate colours that the flash is interupting and quite noticable.

Paul.

[Mumbles]

There are other additions that can help to hide the light. Adding powdered asphaultum or gilsonite is said to help in this regard. Adding sawdust can do this too allegedly.

Truth be told, a lot of these "dark" compositions are really better designed to be used in contrast with a brighter effect. This is why they're nearly invisible for breaking crossettes. Even charcoal streamers and relatively bright in comparison. If you want larger stand alone dark salutes, I find they're best hidden within a break of brighter stars or with flash powder inserts. It's much harder to pick up the contrast if your eyes are used to seeing something brighter.

[Pyro.1]

Thanks Mumbles, iv tried all sorts but im going to settle with a 40/60 whistle/Bp at around the 5fa grain size , it works great across the board and gives me a real nice break and is really quite dark enough. i think i was just getting a bit hung up on the no bright flash.
Pyro can and does give you tunnel vision sometimes .

Paul.