51 replies to this topic

[BlackCat]

Thanks for that Sam, the base composition I was using was a standard red light based on K perchlorate, strontium nitrate and Accroides resin rather than a BP mix so I guess that the base isn't as important as the size of the metal particles. I'll try some BP mixes with Ti, MgAl and FeTi and I's certainly be interested in seeing your video if you can find it. As for the tooling, I appreciate you looking and would be happy to pay something for it, if you have anything that suits, and/or pay for the postage. Just let me know.

[MattyJ]

Hi all,
I’m still about. I’ve been busy with my business, or rather trying to keep it going in these strange times. I haven’t done much in the lab for a while. I need to get back to it.
I’m currently renewing my EPP licence, ready for another inspection.
Matt
(Bristol - UK)

[BlackCat]

Hi Matty, good to know that you're still around. Strange times indeed! I'm interested in your comment about expecting another visit as you renew your EPP, I've renewed mine twice now and haven't been inspected once. The only inspection I've had is for my A&K and AO licenses for pyro work but haven't needed to renew them yet. I wonder if there's a post code lottery on such things.

[MattyJ]

Hi BlackCat
I was inspected initially some years back, then inspected when I added some items, and now on renewal. That’s been over some years now. I’m glad they do though.
I suppose as you have other licences, then they feel no need.

Is there any word on this group? I’d like to stay a member.
I hope there is an AGM at some point.

[maxman]

Matty, what do they do when they come? do they let you know?

[MattyJ]

Hi maxman
The first time a fire officer turned up at the door and had a chat and explained i would be having an inspection. They then emailed and arranged a meeting. They check how you store items, fire risk, and your Security.

[maxman]

Thanks for the reply matty

[pyrothrust]

Im still here ,6" Shells on sticks is still my thing.

[BlackCat]

Hi matty, Interesting. I got my EPP quite a while before I got the other licences, the delay being due to the fact that my local police had never issued a licence for pyrotechnics so it took quite a bit of negotiation before they agreed to grant. I had a visit as part of that process from a Firearms officer but he was only interested in security, my storage facilities for black powder and how much I wanted to store. He had no interest in any of the chemicals I had including those covered by the EPP. I guess that whether or not you get a visit as part of the Epp process depends on the inclination of your local Fire brigade.

 

I don't know yet if I'll get another visit from the police when I renew my A&K and AO licences, they're no due for renewal until late next year.

 

As far as the UKPS is concerned, my understanding is that it's essentially moribund. Phil C appears to be doing the minimum required to keep things ticking over but I can't see it lasting i9n it's present form.

[samboradford]

Good to see there are a few people around.  BlackCat I don't seem to have any spare tooling in that particular size. I've got spare mills, media, tubes, random bits i've collected etc. However, if you let me know what tubes you are using I can turn you a half-inch rammer and base. I don't need anything for it.

 

still looking for the video...

[BlackCat]

That's very kind of you Sam and I appreciate you looking through your stuff for me. My usual tube is 5" x 1/2" internal diameter so some tooling to fit that would be great. If you let me know when you've had time to do it, I'll PM you with my address. Thanks again.

[NeilB]

Hi Icarus,

Still here and alive just. Not upto much at the moment as the current situation has cancelled most events. Hope everyone's well.

Neil.

[BlackCat]

Hello Neil, good to see you're still around.

[NeilB]

Yes m8, you too. Really looking forward to this years bonfire season after such a lack of anything pyro so far this year :-(

Edited by NeilB, 05 June 2020 - 07:23 PM.

[BlackCat]

Yes Neil, I'm hoping to do something for Nov 5th this year, I couldn't manage anything last year due to my mothers health problems but, she's OK now. In fact, I've just set off a couple of strobe pots which IO haven't made before. Both were the published formulations and were pretty good. The white was especially good with quite rapid but distinct pulses of light. The second was the red which burned more slowly, in fact about 30 secs for a 19g charge in a 1 inch diameter tube 1inch long, but the flashing wasn't even and regular throughout the burn. Plenty of things to look at in the formulations though and they're bright enough to be seen during daylight hours.