THEATRICAL PYRO VOLTAGE REQUIREMENTS AND THEIR DIFFERENCES
There are three main types of voltage requirements used in theatrical pyro. The first one we will talk about is "high voltage", which refers to 110-120VAC. For the sake of referring only to theatrical pyro, I like to call this "High voltage in - high voltage out". (I will explain later) The second one we will touch on is often called "medium", or "low voltage". "Medium" is better in describing this type of voltage, because there is a different, more truly low voltage requirement that exists. So, I call "medium voltage", "high voltage in, low voltage out", and the final voltage requirement "extreme low voltage", or just "low voltage".
High voltage is most often used in cases where the performance is indoors, and many shows are routinely being performed in the same indoor theatre, or area. High voltage, in the long run is the least expensive type to use due to the fact that the igniters used in high voltage are the least expensive, and easiest type of igniters to obtain. These systems use 110-120VAC to fire an igniter. That means that the igniter used can be a heavy (32awg) bridge wire. Whether it is a single strand (usually) nichrome resistance bridge wire, or a 3 part wire (2 copper lead, and 1 nichrome bridge) electric match style igniter, using the 120 volts is plenty of voltage to fire any igniter of that sort. Since the igniter used with that type of voltage is so easily fired, the construction of such an igniter is fairly simple compared to an igniter that can fire from less voltage, and is also less expensive to construct, making it much more affordable to purchase. The strand bridge wire for standard flash pots can be purchased for prices ranging from $2.00 for 12 - $2.00 for 20 (shots). The three part wire igniters, (surefire igniters, or high V Ematch) can be purchased for about $7.00 for 12 - $8.00 for 20 (shots).
Unfortunately, or not, the affordability of high voltage is pretty much the only real advantage to using it. High voltage definitely comes with more drawbacks than other voltage requirements. One such disadvantage is safety. Electric shock is something to keep in mind when using high voltage with flash pots. The flash pots that we must be most careful with are "standard", or "economy" flash pots. These devices have their screw terminals, which hold their igniters exposed so that they can be touched at any time. Many of these types of flash pots do not have safety indicator lights, which would tell you that 120vac power is running into the device. If that power is applied, and the screw terminals are both touched at the same time, the result will be an electric shock! This of course is basically the same thing as sticking your finger in a light socket! OUCH!! This is not a good thing to have happen.
Another downfall of high voltage is the availability of the
proper power source. As mentioned before, high voltage is most
often use indoors. The reason for this is obviously because you
normally need a power outlet to obtain this amount of power. It
has been found that most outdoor outlets do not have the amperage
required to successfully fire high voltage igniters.
Along with the problem of not finding outlets, comes the problem
of not finding an outlet with enough "juice". High
voltage igniters require a minimum of 20 amps in order to fire
properly. If an outlet does not have the proper amperage, you
will eventually end up with a blown fuse in the fuse box, or
blown breaker. Blown fuses and breakers can pretty much end the
pyrotechnic aspect of the performance.
Fuse and breaker problems also occur when the circuit being used is also being used for something else. Bands often run in to the problem when all of their equipment is plugged into the same place. The power, or "Juice sucked" from outlets when using high voltage can and often does create major conflict with sound equipment etc. plugged into a same circuit. At best, if something at all happens, power may be lost in such items, forcing a reset. At worst, major damage of an internal nature could possibly occur.
So, it's pretty clear that Lower voltage control systems are the least riskworthy in Theatrical pyro. High voltage can be simply used on an occasional basis, but is not the most highly recommended.
The above article is a compilation of facts, thoughts, and opinions discovered through the experiences of Zack Percell, owner of Z11 Pyro Supply. This information is free for open discussion and feedback, including argument. This information does not necessarily reflect the opinions or experiences of all other persons in the field of Theatrical Pyrotechnics, or any other Pyrotechnic field. Please send any questions or comments about this article to Zack@Z11Pyro.com. Thank you for reading.
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