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Metal Powders and the World of Bullets and Fireworks

Metal Powders and Fireworks

If you were to break-open a modern gun cartridge or pyrotechnic shell, you would find metal powders of many different sizes and shapes. It has been this way since both were invented, and with each passing day, the technology involved in creating high quality ammunition and fireworks has grown more complex. At Atlantic Equipment Engineers, we pride ourselves on being experts when it comes to the high purity metals powders that make these instruments of protection and recreation possible.

Ballistics:

For centuries, ammunition was nothing more than a round or pointed piece of metal or wood. In the late 19^th century, Eduard Rubin invented the first multi-piece bullet often referred to as a “full metal jacket.”  While earlier bullets were made from solid lead, the ammunition you commonly see today combines metal jackets and interior powders consisting of metals like: bismuth, bronze, copper, molybdenum, tungsten, zinc, and more. The type of powder metal is chosen based on its melt temperature, density, and hardness.

Pyrotechnics:

Unlike the bullet and even gunpowder, fireworks date back to around 200 B.C. during China’s Han dynasty. Anyone who has been to a Fourth of July celebration of late understands that today’s fireworks are a combination of the original concept and complex technology. A wide variety of metal powders are used to create this modern entertainment masterpiece including (but not limited too): copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, strontium, titanium, and zinc. Pyrotechnic manufactures combine this metals based on the temperature they burn at and the colors they produce.

When it comes to both ballistics and pyrotechnics, manufacturers demand metal powders that meet or exceed exacting specification. It does not matter if it is for hobby rockets, fireworks, or Mil-Spec ballistics; Atlantic Equipment Engineers’ clients know that we offer the highest quality metal powders and compounds. To learn more about AEE’s high purity metal powders or any of our other amazing products, please visit our website or contact one of our metal powder experts today!