Signal rockets - purpose, device and use

2024 Author: Henry Conors | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-12 02:40

Signal flares are used to provide various signals that allow you to establish visual communication, including determining your location in case of emergency, requiring evacuation, orientation and target designation, as well as in other cases.

Types and characteristics

Among those produced at various enterprises and in various countries, they differ in their capabilities, technical performance and tasks for which they are intended. Earlier, until about the 80s of the last century, flares were most widely used, made in the form of a special cartridge for the corresponding pistols, and also allowing firing from smooth-bore hunting trunks. Later, they began to be replaced by devices made in the form of a cylindrical tube, which do not require any weapons, and the launch in the vast majority of samples is provided directly from the hand. The signal rocket device is quite simple, however, due to the need for accurate calculations and knowledgepyrotechnic features of the substances used, it is not possible to manufacture them at home with the required degree of reliability and safety.

The main parts of the rocket

Let's consider what basic elements it consists of. Firstly, it is directly a tube in which all components are placed. As a rule, cardboard or plastic is used for it, which have the required qualities of mechanical strength, and are covered with waterproof varnish to avoid dampening.

In the lower part there is a pocket screwed with a sealed lid, in which there is a lanyard attached to the grating igniter on the inside. Directly around the igniter is placed an expelling charge, consisting of smoky or smokeless powder, and then a pyrotechnic composition follows through the gasket, providing a “star” that is clearly visible from a long distance after ignition.

A light sealed cardboard layer is installed in the upper part of the tube, also designed to prevent damage to its contents under the influence of the external environment. In some cases, to ensure a longer visibility of the burning pyrotechnic composition, it is enclosed in a light inner package, to which a small parachute is attached.

Making a rocket at home

Smoke flare is made in the same order. However, everyone is well aware of the various ingredients that make it possible to make at homeground-based signal cartridge, when fired up, it gives clearly visible and fairly dense clouds of smoke.

Practical application

They fire flares, usually from the left hand. The fingers firmly hold her body approximately in the middle, and the lanyard is straightened with the right hand. After giving the device the required elevation angle, which should be at least 35-40 degrees, the cord is pulled out with a sharp movement, and the position of the cartridge should not change much in its direction. With special care, it is necessary to observe the rule of movement of the right hand. It must match the center line of the device. If it is not observed, a missile departure may be deflected with the onset of possible negative consequences: from a ricochet to a fire located near trees, buildings, etc.

Storage conditions

Signal flares should be protected from moisture, as this can lead to failure of operation. In cases where water gets on them, it is necessary to wipe them with a dry rag, without violating the tightness of the cartridge. Keep them away from open flames and should not be left in direct sunlight as this may cause spontaneous combustion.