18 replies to this topic

[Mumbles]

I'd imagine there is a lower limit to effectiveness. If a mill jar can crush a kilo of charcoal in 20 minutes (not unrealistic), I would not expect to be able to toss in 10g and come out with airfloat in 12 seconds. A mill at maximum efficiency will be crushing something on every media to media impact. If you go below this threshold, there will be no improvement in milling time. Chemicals can only be ground during the impact. If you are no using all of the available impacts, you're just wasting your time IMO. One issue with a severely undercharged mill is that there will be increased media wear. A properly charged mill has enough chemicals to be ground up that they absorb the impact energy in the form of fragmenting into smaller pieces. If you don't use that energy, it is just going to be used to grind off media.

[Sparky]

I've been testing the results of the CIA method BP and I have to use about double the amount of my own BP compared to commercial BP e.g. for a 70g 1.75 Inch dummy shell I tried 14g of CIA BP. It managed a reasonable height, nothing to get too excited about but it seems reliable with a few test shots.

I actually used Acetone rather than Isopropyl alcohol for the CIA method so not suire if this makes any difference.


Just out of interest a I've also tried an experiment with some Golden Powder (KNO3 + Ascorbic Acid) using the cooking method. The results are very impressive for lift powder, the only negatived seems to be its really hygroscopic. I was thinking if I put it in little plastic baggies and stored well it should be a good alternative to BP for small shells.

[megabusa]

Hi Sparky,

you really need to get yourself a mill. Once you can make BP you won't want to mess around with other methods. You also need BP to make your own blackmatch & quickmatch. I also use BP straight out of the mill + add 7% Si to make a prime for everything that needs it.

I have been into pyro for almost 30 years & haven't found the need to make flash or benzolift for any of my stuff.

If it's the cost of buying a mill that puts you off, look at making your own, it is quite easy if you are handy with a bit of DIY.

If it's the "what if it goes bang" that worries you, look at milling smaller amounts outdoors surrounded by sand bags just in case.

I know you are trying to find other methods, but being able to make good BP (however small the amounts) is quite essential in this hobby & in the long run is quicker than finding alternatives.


Cheers,

Phil.

[Sparky]

Hi Phil,

I don't doubt you at all but I am not really that comfortable with running a ball mill in my back garden as yet but I'm warming to the idea. I may look at building a small bunker for it or something.