Test batch of bismuth crackle

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Lloyd
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Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by Lloyd »

Chris Bruce at Fireworkscookbook.com asked me to test a sample of his new lower-cost bismuth trioxide.

Now... a bit of background is worthwhile here. Except for one or two multi-shot plates and THOUSANDS of 1/2" whistles, I have not had the opportunity to make any fireworks 'from scratch' in just at four years. So, this was almost an adventure.

Could I remember? Could I do it right? Was I just wasting Chris's Bi2O3? Eh... here's the result.

I tested four grains -- a 'double' stuck together in priming. It gave two decent cracks.
A BARELY 10-mesh grain (with the prime layer thickness before sizing). Good crack.
A slightly-larger one. Better crack.

Then, this one. It ONLY JUST fits through 8-mesh with a little shaking.

https://www.facebook.com/10000945012703 ... 305261023/

Lloyd
"Pyro for Fun and Profit for More Than Sixty Years"
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richardh08
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by richardh08 »

I can only echo: "excellent crackle"!

A very short delay and, from what I could tell from the recording, a good volume to the report.

I wouldn't mind giving that one a try ;)
Even when I'm wrong, I'm convincing.
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richardh08
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by richardh08 »

A question occurs to me. Is this your standard crackle made with Bi2O3 from a new, cheaper source, or is it a different formulation?
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Lloyd
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by Lloyd »

Richard,
It is my standard bismuth crackle, and the new batch of Bi2O3 was from a new source which is a LOT less-expensive than in past times.

It's from Chris Bruce at Fireworkscookbook.com

Lloyd
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richardh08
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by richardh08 »

Lloyd, the only Bi2O3 I see on that site is priced at $32/lb - is that what you mean?

If so, that price looks broadly comparable with what is being charged by suppliers in the UK.
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Lloyd
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by Lloyd »

No, that's not the material. That's the older 'regular price' stuff. He's found a new source, and before he offers it for sale, he's asked a few pyros to test it. He should make it available soon, IF the deal goes through. That's what he's waiting to see. It would be unfair to offer it, then not be able to supply it.

He sent me 132g of it, which I used-up entirely in that batch.

Lloyd
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richardh08
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by richardh08 »

OK, thanks Lloyd. It sounds like a deal which, if it goes through, ought to be interesting.

Also, given the number of tests I have made so far, I have to say it's a good job my batches are smaller than yours!
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Lloyd
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Re: Test batch of bismuth crackle

Post by Lloyd »

It's not a 'done deal', but looks like it will go through.
Here's what Chris had to say about it:
------

I appreciate how quickly you tested this. I also appreciate you passing the word to your clients. I hope they are as happy with it as I have been.

The price I am shooting for is:

$15/lb for 25KG drum
$16/lb for 20lb lots
$18/lb for 10lb lots
$20/lb for anything under 10 lbs

Right now I only have around 50lbs in stock.
"Pyro for Fun and Profit for More Than Sixty Years"
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