Epic Fireworks Blog

Archive for the ‘Lancework’ Category

If like me you are a little bemused by the ‘correct term’ for some items, this is one of them.

Lancework is the art of writing words or creating images out of fireworks. Sometimes referred to as fire-drawings, they allow you to add another dimension to either your firework event or indeed as a stand alone piece.

These are almost completely silent with a slight hissing sound and unlike 1.3g fireworks they are high impact and with no falling debris, great at any show.

This high quality British Made product will add that special touch of class to your firework display. They are created by making a frame in the shape of the letters and positioning small tubes (referred to as lances) which burn with a coloured light and a minimum smoke for around 60-seconds.

Here at Epic Fireworks we keep two types in stock. Both of them say GOOD NIGHT and come in a choice or silver or gold effect. They are 300mm by 240mm (2x120mm so they can be either side by side or straight across) and are really easy to put together.

So, if you are looking for a classy end to your show, this is a must have for 2012.

You will need the following at the display site

2 x 2m wooden post 50mm x 50mm (front face painted black is optional but increases clarity).
2 x 0.6 m pointed stakes 50mm x 50mm.
Lump hammer to drive stakes into the ground.
Matches or lighter.
Portfire (supplied)
Cable ties (supplied)

Setting up on site

Lancework looks best when viewed at a distance. It is classified as DISPLAY FIREWORKS and should be 25M away from people or property. The lances should face or point into the wind to allow the smoke to clear. Do not put it up against a wall or fence where the smoke will be trapped or in a position where obstructions will create air turbulence. If you are firing other fireworks, with the lancework, position these behind the lancework. The lances and fused are weatherproof. Heavy Rain will eventually seep into the area where the fuse and lances meet and ignition will be affected. If rain is expected it would be wise to try and cover the frames with polythene but do remove this before firing.

1. Hammer a stake into the ground then attach a 50mm x 50mm 2M long post (upright) to this using cable ties. A back painted post will look better than plain timber.

2. Use cable ties to secure the lancework frame to the post. Ensure the frame is level.

3. Repeat for the second lancework frame. The two frames should be about 150mm apart level and in alignment. It pays to spend a little time getting this step right.

Fusing

1. Refer to the two photographs below. In the first picture you will see the right hand end of the ‘WILL YOU’ lancework. There is a single length of fuse about 500mm long hanging down. This terminates in a second (yellow) fuse. This is shown uncovered.

2. The second picture shows the left hand end of the ‘MARRY ME’ lancework. There are two lengths of fuse hanging down. Select the longer one and run it parallel to the fuse on the left hand lancework. Use a 50mm length of Sellotape or masking tape to bind the fuses together. Repeat this a little higher up.

3. Now run the short length of fuse from the right hand frame and tape this, in two places, to the length of fuse above the ‘U’ on the left hand frame. The assembly should now resemble picture No.2 and is ready for firing.

4. Hold the handle of the Portfire in a gloved hand. Light the blue tip. Keep the Portfire away from the red fuse. Light the tip of the, fully extended, yellow fuse at arms length and retire to 25M. The Lancework will light in about ten seconds.