The Firework Types

Below is a selection of common fireworks to give you an idea of what they look like and what they do. Most of which can be bought by the general public, however some cannot.

1. Rockets - Probably one of the most well known of all the fireworks, available in a number of shapes and sizes. Most types can be bought by the general public, including some of the larger varieties, producing some spectacular aerial effects. The rocket comprises of the top section, containing the motor and effect, with a long stick which it carries behind as it flies into the night sky, aiding stability in the air.

The effects from rockets can vary from flash/bangs, to star bursts incorporating colour and noise.

It's always important to remember that when using rockets, the wind plays an important role in its flight path, so ALWAYS angle well away from spectators, overhead obstructions and buildings - remember, the wind will carry any debris back the way it travelled!

    2.    Shells - A category 3 firework which was banned from public use a few years ago. Now only used by professionals, these fireworks produce some of the most spectacular effects in the firework industry, used at nearly all large firework displays (including hatch). Shells are fired out of thick tubes, propelled by their own charge at the bottom of the unit. As the shells is thrown 100's of feet into the air, a small fuse is burning inside and when the shell reaches its maximum altitude, the shell explodes to produce a breathtaking burst of colour and/or noise.

Shells come in different shapes and sizes (although generally spherical) and range from about 65mm in diameter, to well over 15 inches and more.

The tubes used to fire the shells can either be buried in the ground, attached firmly to stakes, or grouped together using a racking system such as the one on the left.

This system is ideal in larger displays. It enables groups of shells to be fired in sequence and also, for various sequences to be fused together.

Shells need a lot of respect as they are very powerful fireworks. Only trained pyrotechnists are able to use them, however, its fair to say that they are one of the most spectacular fireworks, which certainly wow the crowed at a fireworks display.

3.    Candles -  Candles, or roman candles as they are more commonly known, are one of the most common and popular fireworks. They normally consist of a solid card tube, containing various effects such as 'bangs', 'crackles' and colour which get ejected from within, using a small charge underneath each individual unit.

A good all round firework that lasts about 20 - 40 seconds, used in both small and large displays alike. When generally used in larger displays, they are grouped and fused together in small batches to produce 'batteries'. Candles have to be either buried two thirds into the ground, or attached firmly to an upright stake. 

Batteries can consist of a variety of effects to produce a fantastic barrage of colour and noise to fill the nights sky. As with any firework, its important to angle WELL AWAY from spectators and obstructions as debris thrown from the firework can be a problem (especially if its windy).

4.    Cakes -  A fantastic, all-round firework. Commonly available to the general public, this firework offers great value for money - almost a small firework display wrapped up in one box.

The firework comprises of several tubes side by side, fused together to produce a barrage of colour, noise, whistles, crackles, stars - you name it, it could have it.

Cakes, such as this one, have to be placed on a flat surface (such as a flat board) to prevent them from rocking or falling over as it fires. Again, this is an aerial firework, filling the sky with an array of effects to wow the crowd. Ones such as the one in the picture are available, however larger cakes weighing in at around 45KG are used at professional shown (including hatch) to produce a breathtaking pre finale firework.

5.    Fountains - Again, a common firework, found in many DIY display packs. The fountain has a card/paper outer, which contains the solid chemical compound which burns relatively slowly.

Once ignited, the firework spouts out sparks/crackles/colours as it burns in a 'fountain' effect for a considerable length of time. Similarly to batteries, fountains must be placed on a flat surface or board for stability.

The fountain usually reaches a meter or so in height, however, there are larger versions available, sometimes called 'gerbs', which can reach several meters in height.

6.    Wheels - An effective 'set - piece'  firework, usually attached to a solid, upright post. Once ignited, the firework spins around on its axis throwing sparks as it goes.

The firework propels itself, powered by a number of small gerb - like units (similar to small rockets).

It's important that the firework is secured properly to the upright, so it doesn't fly off. However, on the other hand, its important that the firework isn't secured TOO tightly, meaning a restriction in its rotation (Even we have problems!) meaning the wheel either stops spinning half way through its sequence, or doesn't spin at all!

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