Pyrotechnics
Overview
Pyrotechnics
are used to create flashes of fire and bright light, and puffs of
smoke, through the combustion of various pyrotechnic compositions.
A pyrotechnic composition is practically anything that will burn;
however, the most popular pyrotechnic compositions used for theatrical
special effects are Flash Powder and Flash Paper.
In order to create a pyrotechnic special effect, you need four things:
- The
pyrotechnic composition.
- Something
to hold the pyrotechnic composition.
- Something
to ignite the pyrotechnic composition.
- Something
to control and initiate the ignition.
The
is a huge variety of pyrotechnic compositions, devices (holders),
igniters and controllers available. How will you know which ones
to use? Your solution can best be determined by answering the following:
- What
is the effect? What should it look like? Sound like? Smell like?
- Where
is the effect? How far from the audience? Performers? Scenery?
Smoke or fire detectors?
Once
the questions have been answered, you can determine the pyrotechnic
composition required. Flash Powder, Smoke Powder, Flame Powder,
Sparkle Additive and Flash Paper are all compositions that are used
heavily throughout the entertainment industry. You can create almost
any pyrotechnic effect imaginable with the many varieties of these
compositions that we offer.
After the composition required for the effect is determinded, the
device, igniter and controller can be chosen. The device is generally
the next on your list. Your igniter and controller are then determined
by the requirements of the device. Sometimes you have the luxury
of being able to choose from a variety of devices, so you can also
take the igniter and controller options into account when you choose.
However, it isn't uncommon for the effect to dictate the device.
Here's an example of the process:
Your community theatre group is producing The Wizard of Oz, and
you need to create a flash of light and a puff of smoke in which
the wicked witch will appear. After browsing through our catalog
you decide that the Photo Flash Powder best describes the effect
you want to achieve. The catalog explains that Flash Powder is generally
used in a Flash Pot, so you go to the Devices section and read the
descriptions of the various Flash Pots. You discover that the rugged
Ultra Flash Pot will fill not only this show's requirement, but
is also versatile enough to be used for other effects in future
productions. The Ultra Flash Pot uses Surefire Igniters, so you
read about them in the Igniters section. Finally, you move on to
the Controllers. You decide that the Ultra 2 Footswitch is adequate
for your needs. That's all there is to it!
All of our pyrotechnic products include complete directions, and
we're glad to offer free telephone (or e-mail) technical support,
should you need it.
We also have available some Pyro Licensing Regulation Information
in pdf format. You can view it, print it, save it to disk and then
email it to your friends, etc.
Click here for Pyro Licensing Info |
