TYPES OF FIREWORKS:

There are 2 types of fireworks used in shows

• Class B (1.3G) fireworks are shells launched from a mortar, upon reaching the desired height, explode or ignite in a variety of effects and stars. These are the type used for big displays like the fourth of July.
  

• Class C (1.4G) fireworks contain 50 milligrams or less of flash powder for ground effects and less than 130 milligrams for aerial effects. They are small effects for private use, or sometimes used as "spice" in a big display.

THESE ARE SOME INTEGRAL PARTS OF FIREWORKS

PROPULSIVE CHARGE: Explosive charge made of black powder used to propel the pyrotechnic shell into the air.

ELECTRIC MATCH: A special device with coated leg wires (usually 2 meters) used to electrically ignite fireworks. When an electrical impulse is applied, the "match head" produces a burst or "spit" of fire, lighting the Propulsive Charge to launch the shell.

STAR: Small sphere or cylinder made of black powder and one or more chemicals. A predetermined color is emitted when a star is ignited depending on the types of chemicals included.
(example: copper=>blue, strontium=>red, etc.)

BURST CHARGE: Internal charge designed to detonate an aerial shell at or near the apex of its flight. The burst charge ignites the Stars producing both visual and sound effects.

TIME-FUSE: A fast burning material that allows a timed delay before igniting the Burst Charge of the pyrotechnic effect while airborne.
(Delay: 1-5 seconds)

SHELL: Rigid material that confines the pyrotechnic effects until they are ready to be detonated.

MORTAR: Tubes made from paper, steel and plastic (pvc or hdpe). Their inside diameter and length are determined by the size of the shell.

OPERATION:

1. The firing system ignites the Electric Match which in turn ignites the Propulsive Charge.
2. This ejects the pyrotechnic effect out of the Mortar 250-1200 feet into the air.
3. At the same time, the Time-Fuse is lit.
4. The Time-Fuse burns for a set time to allow the pyrotechnic effect to reach a specific height.
5. When the Time-Fuse reaches its end, it ignites the Burst Charge.
6. The Burst Charge explodes, spreading the Stars out in a wide area, producing a spectacular pyrotechnic effect.