Polumna Firecracker
From PyroGuide
Polumna Firecracker's are a type of Firecracker that is folded like a flag to form a tight triangular shape. They are easy to make, inexpensive, and because they are made of paper materials, they pose minimal shrapnel danger. They are otherwise known as Mexican style or triangle firecrackers.
Contents |
Materials
Casing
Many things can be used to create a Paloma's casing. From news paper to craft paper or many kinds of tape. Usually in a 1.5"x12" strip. This casing can be strengthened by covering in tape, which has the added bonus of holding the Paloma together.
Report composition
The report compositon can be composed of a variety of mixes, such as any flash compostition (e.g.-- Potassium perchlorate flash), Black powder or even whistle mix.
Ignition
A standard Visco fuse or firecracker paper fuse can be used.
Adhesion
Various glues and tapes are often the easiest way to hold together a Paloma, but the multiple folds that create the casing also help keep it together. Tapes are preferable over glues, due to both neatness and additional strength. Tapes also seal the Polumna more tightly, and a better seal generally means better 'bang for your buck'. Hot glue is to be avoided because of the obvious problems associated with heating a pyrotechnic mixture.
Construction
Lay your strip of paper flat, and make your first fold on the left by folding the bottom left corner up to the top edge of the strip. This should create a 45 degree angle, with all the folded sides being flush with the strip. Take the new top left corner and fold this inwards so that the top is flush with the top of the strip. This should create a sort of 'pocket' to hold your fuse and composition. Insert the fuse into this pocket so that it sits along the left side, reaching to the bottom point. You want to leave at least 1" of fuse outside, if not more. Now insert your composition of choice into the pocket, filling it 3/4 of the way. With a small piece of tape or glue, secure the top two layers of paper together, so that the fuse is poking out the top left (using white glue will require a day or two waiting time to dry). Continue to fold the paper up, making sure to keep the shape triangular, like folding a flag or 'paper football', and try to keep every fold tight and crisp. For added strength you can use some use white glue or paste to adhere the layers to each other, or you can wait till you have completed folding and then secure and seal the entire Polumna with tape. This will give additional strength to the casing and hold it together. Make sure to wrap around the fuse tightly so no composition can escape.
Availability
Polumna's are commercially available as 'Black Bermudas' in Belgium. They are also available in Mexico under a variety of names.
References
- Feuerwerk.net - Black Bermuda Image
