Introduction: How to Make a Fire Wire [Easy Fireworks]
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About: I like turning boring things into awesome things! Usually on video.
This is an old trick done with fine steel wool to make a huge spiraling shower of sparks. Rapid oxidation of iron contained in the fine strands of steel is an exothermic reaction hot enough to melt the iron (which is a large percentage of steel) and give the spectacular visual effect. This process results in black iron oxide (Fe3O4) and red iron oxide (Fe2O3), which is more commonly known as rust. The carbon content found in steel adds to the brilliance of the sparks. The method I find works best for constructing these fire wires is detailed in the video.
Tools & Materials
000 or 0000 grade steel wool works best. Any courser and it will not burn properly. If it is fluffed up before igniting it will not burn as long, but it will throw off much thicker sparks. The first two shots in the video show fire wires with steel wool that has been fluffed up in this way.
Because these use no self contained oxidizing agents like most fireworks, these are probably legal in most areas - But this does not mean it is smart to use them anywhere. They throw off many hot sparks and should therefore not be used in dry environments. Glasses of some kind are also necessary to avoid any sparks getting in the eyes. A wide brimmed hat or a hood is not a bad idea either to avoid getting spots burned in your hair.
Tools & Materials
- Steel Wool
- 3' Copper Wire
- Lighter or 9 Volt Battery for Ignition
- Wire Strippers (Optional)
000 or 0000 grade steel wool works best. Any courser and it will not burn properly. If it is fluffed up before igniting it will not burn as long, but it will throw off much thicker sparks. The first two shots in the video show fire wires with steel wool that has been fluffed up in this way.
Because these use no self contained oxidizing agents like most fireworks, these are probably legal in most areas - But this does not mean it is smart to use them anywhere. They throw off many hot sparks and should therefore not be used in dry environments. Glasses of some kind are also necessary to avoid any sparks getting in the eyes. A wide brimmed hat or a hood is not a bad idea either to avoid getting spots burned in your hair.
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44 Comments
10 years ago on Introduction
This is so cool!! Is it dangerous? Can you burn yourself or start a fire?
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
obviously if its fire, its gonna be dangerous hahaha
9 years ago
Can u make a video??
9 years ago
Can u do a video?
10 years ago on Introduction
This trick is so awesome! I ran straight to the store to get some steal wool right after work I was so excited to try this. In person it's amazing! Practicing saftey while doing this is a MUST! I got a minor burn on my leg when the hot wool hit me.
Reply 10 years ago on Introduction
Yeah your definately going to want to dress like the guy in the video.
10 years ago on Introduction
dont get it arent airsoft land mines supposed to spray bbs i need to know how to make one that sprays bbs.. o ya it would be perfect on april fools
11 years ago on Introduction
how can i vote
11 years ago on Introduction
Good luck hope you win
11 years ago on Introduction
You deserve this prize and thats why I voted for you
ps. youtube brought me here
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
Thanks! And thank you for watching my videos
11 years ago on Introduction
I voted n_n my yt name is hamsterboy13
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
Thanks!
11 years ago on Introduction
Hey...Snezzen also want to vote for you. I hope I made everything right...hehe ;))
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
It's greatly appreciated, thanks!
11 years ago on Introduction
I voted! My YouTube name is cheesynerd117
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
Thanks!
11 years ago on Introduction
i love ur videos and i have subscribed to both ur youtube and instructables accounts. Keep Them Coming
Reply 11 years ago on Introduction
Thank you very much!
11 years ago on Introduction
OK my freind, You just got a 5.0 from me. I hope this is what you were referring to on "the tube". Anyone who makes this quality of instrctional videos's deserves all 5's so heres to ya along with a "High Five" from me! Happy new year Buddy! Cant wait to see more of your pyro vids!