CEN/TC 212

Date: 2026-01

prEN 16263:2026

Secretariat: NEN

Pyrotechnic articles — Other pyrotechnic articles

Pyrotechnische Gegenstände — Sonstige pyrotechnische Gegenstände

Articles pyrotechniques — Autres articles pyrotechniques

ICS:

Descriptors:

Contents Page

European foreword 6

1 Scope 7

2 Normative references 8

3 Terms and definitions 9

3.1 General terms 9

3.2 Technical terms 9

3.3 Terms related to generic types 15

3.4 Terms related to subtypes 17

4 Generic types 21

5 Subtypes 21

6 Categorization criteria 22

6.1 General 22

6.2 Criteria for categorization 22

6.2.1 General 22

6.2.2 General criteria 23

6.2.3 Specific criteria [Functioning step of Figure A.1] 24

6.2.4 Specific criteria table [criteria versus generic type] 28

7 General and safety requirements 32

7.1 Incompatible and forbidden substances 32

7.2 Safe disposal 32

7.3 Means of ignition 32

7.4 Safety features 33

7.5 Toxicity 33

7.6 Detonative explosives 34

8 Performance requirements 34

8.1 Verification of performance 34

8.2 Verification of design 34

8.3 Verification of labelling and instructions for use 34

8.4 Resistance to mechanical impact 35

8.5 Loose pyrotechnic composition after mechanical conditioning and mechanical impact test 35

8.6 Resistance to moisture 35

8.7 Resistance to high and low temperatures 36

8.8 Integrity after functioning 36

9 Requirements for semi-finished pyrotechnic articles and rocket motors 36

9.1 Semi-finished pyrotechnic articles 36

9.2 Rocket motors 36

10 Primary pack 36

11 Type testing 36

11.1 General 36

11.2 Number of items to be tested 37

11.2.1 General 37

11.2.2 Additional items for specific tests 38

11.3 Number of primary packs to be examined 38

11.4 Test report 39

12 Batch testing 39

12.1 General 39

12.2 Sampling plans 39

12.3 Unit of product 40

12.4 Nonconformities 40

12.5 Labelling 42

12.6 Test report 42

12.7 Acceptance or rejection of a batch 42

12.7.1 Nonconforming units 42

12.7.2 Critical nonconforming units 42

12.7.3 Major nonconforming units 42

12.7.4 Minor nonconforming units 43

12.7.5 Pyrotechnic articles supplied in primary packs 43

13 Test methods 43

13.1 Apparatus 43

13.1.1 General 43

13.1.2 Test area 43

13.1.3 Timing device 43

13.1.4 Calliper 43

13.1.5 Ruler 44

13.1.6 Measuring tape 44

13.1.7 Wind speed meter 44

13.1.8 Balance 44

13.1.9 Temperature chamber 44

13.1.10 Sound level meter 44

13.1.11 Shock apparatus 44

13.1.12 Drop-test apparatus 44

13.1.13 Goniometer 45

13.1.14 Devices for measuring of effect height 45

13.1.15 Devices for measuring thrust 45

13.1.16 Abrasive sheet 45

13.1.17 Witness screen 45

13.1.18 Transparent type size sheet 46

13.1.19 High speed video equipment 47

13.1.20 Magnifying equipment 47

13.1.21 Further test apparatus 47

13.2 Test procedures 47

13.2.1 General 47

13.2.2 Construction 47

13.2.3 Design verification 47

13.2.4 Angle of ascent and height of effects 48

13.2.5 Measurement of sound pressure level 49

13.2.6 Timing measurement 49

13.2.7 Mechanical conditioning 50

13.2.8 Mechanical impact test (Drop test) 50

13.2.9 Thermal conditioning 51

13.2.10 Function test 51

13.2.11 Measurement of thrust 53

13.2.12 Resistance to ignition by an abrasive surface 53

13.2.13 Further tests 54

13.2.14 Measuring of labelling 57

13.2.15 Measuring of the hazard level of fragments 57

13.2.16 Water immersion test 59

13.2.17 Use of detonative explosives 59

13.2.18 Visual examination 63

14 Minimum labelling requirements 64

14.1 General 64

14.2 Information on manufacturer or importer 64

14.3 Type of article, category, registration number and intended use 64

14.3.1 Type of article 64

14.3.2 Name of article 64

14.3.3 Category and registration number 64

14.3.4 Marking and identification number of the notified body 65

14.3.5 Product, batch or serial number 65

14.3.6 Intended use 65

14.4 Age limits 65

14.5 Instructions for use 65

14.6 Safe firing distance and hazard zone 67

14.7 Net explosive content 67

14.8 Means of ignition 67

14.9 Safe/arm device 67

14.10 Direction of effect 67

14.11 ‘Use by’ date 67

14.12 Printing 68

14.13 Marking of very small items 68

Annex A (normative) Flow chart 69

Annex B (normative) Value of the drag coefficient 76

Annex C (normative) Calculation of the thermal dose 77

C.1 Method of calculation 77

C.2 Typical values of the enthalpy of combustion 78

C.3 Radiation part of the thermal flux 78

C.4 Alternative criterion when q(t) is constant or can be approximated by a constant law of time 78

Annex D (informative) Mechanical conditioning (Shock apparatus) 80

Annex E (informative) Drop test (Mechanical impact test) 83

Annex F (informative) Procedures for calculation of heights 84

Annex G (informative) Determination of the duration of accelerated ageing test to demonstrate the correct functioning at the 'use by' date 88

Annex H (normative) Apparatus for the testing of sensitiveness of the pyrotechnic composition to electrostatic discharge 91

H.1 Electrostatic energy supply 91

H.2 Test cell assembly 92

H.3 Preparation of the test sample 92

H.4 Conditioning of the test sample and test conditions 92

H.5 Evaluation of spark gap energy 93

H.6 Reporting of results 93

H.7 Test report 93

Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential safety requirements of Directive 2013/29/EU aimed to be covered 94

Bibliography 96

European foreword

This document (prEN 16263:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 212 “Pyrotechnic articles”, the secretariat of which is held by NEN.

This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.

This document will supersede EN 16263‑1:2015, EN 16263‑2:2015, EN 16263‑3:2015, EN 16263‑4:2015 and EN 16263‑5:2015.

prEN 16263:2026 includes the following changes with respect to EN 16263‑1:2015, EN 16263‑2:2015, EN 16263‑3:2015, EN 16263‑4:2015 and EN 16263‑5:2015:

— the 5 parts have been merged;

— the Annex ZA has been updated.

NOTE Words in italics (apart from document titles) are defined in Clause 3 (Terms and definitions)

This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its Member States.

For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.

This document specifies requirements for the construction, performances, minimum labelling and mandatory instructions for use of other pyrotechnic articles of the following generic types:

— flares;

— flash devices;

— gas generators;

— heaters;

— other cartridges;

— pyromechanical devices;

— pyrotechnic actuated dispersers;

— rockets and rocket motors;

— semi-finished pyrotechnic articles;

— smoke/aerosol generators;

— sound emitters.

This document does not apply to pyrotechnic articles for vehicles, ignition devices and cartridges for powder actuated tools (PAT).

The following standards apply to the excluded articles:

— EN ISO 14451‑1, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 1: Terminology (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑2, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 2: Test methods (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑3, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 3: Labelling (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑4, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 4: Requirements and categorization for micro gas generators (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑5, Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 5: Requirements and categorization for airbag gas generators (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑6, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 6: Requirements and categorization for airbag modules (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑7, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 7: Requirements and categorization for seatbelt pretensioners (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑8, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 8: Requirements and categorization for igniters (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑9, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 9: Requirements and categorization for actuators (Under preparation)

— EN ISO 14451‑10, Pyrotechnic articles – Pyrotechnic articles for vehicles – Part 10: Requirements and categorization for semi-finished products (preparation)

— EN 16264, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Cartridges for powder actuated tools (Under preparation)

— EN 16265, Pyrotechnic articles – Other pyrotechnic articles – Ignition devices (Under preparation)

The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.

EN 13631‑3:2025, Explosives for civil uses - Explosives for blasting, boosters and explosive substances — Part 3: Verification of the insensitiveness to friction of explosives for blasting and explosive substances

EN 13631‑4:2025, Explosives for civil uses — Explosives for blasting, boosters and explosive substances — Part 4: Verification of the insensitiveness to impact of explosives for blasting and explosive substances

EN 13763‑1:2025, Explosives for civil uses — Detonators and detonating cord relays - Part 1: Requirements

EN 16265:—,^[1] Pyrotechnic articles — Other pyrotechnic articles — Ignition devices

EN 61672‑1:2013, Electroacoustics — Sound level meters — Part 1: Specifications (IEC 61672 1:2013)

EN ISO 13385‑1:2019, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) — Dimensional measuring equipment — Part 1: Design and metrological characteristics of callipers (ISO 13385-1:2019)

EN ISO 13385‑2:2020, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) — Dimensional measuring equipment — Part 2: Design and metrological characteristics of calliper depth gauges (ISO 13385-2:2020)

EN ISO 7010:2020,^[2] Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Registered safety signs (ISO 7010:2019, Corrected version 2020-06)

ISO 565:1990, Test sieves — Metal wire cloth, perforated metal plate and electroformed sheet — Nominal sizes of openings

ISO 2859‑1:2026, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes — Part 1: Sampling schemes indexed by acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot inspection

ISO 3864‑1:2011, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 1: Design principles for safety signs and safety markings

ISO 6344‑3:2021, Coated abrasives — Determination and designation of grain size distribution — Part 3: Microgrit sizes P240 to P5000

ISO 7000:2019, Graphical symbols for use on equipment — Registered symbols

ISO 21948:2001, Coated abrasives — Plain sheets

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1.1

generic type

set of articles with a common, very general, design feature and/or with a common characteristic effect

3.1.2

subtype

set of articles within a generic type with specific design features

3.1.3

technical documentation provided with the article

technical information about the article to be provided for EU-type examination

3.1.4

trade name

designation of an individual item from a particular supplier

3.1.5

type

sample representative of the production envisaged

3.2.1

acceptance quality limit

AQL

quality level that is the worst tolerable process average when a continuing series of lots is submitted for acceptance sampling

3.2.2

all-fire level

minimum level of the initiation input, needed to ensure that an igniter or an ignition device initiates within a given time frame

Note 1 to entry: All fire level is a characteristic given in the instructions for use of every igniter. It is generally associated with a probability level (generally 99,9 % at 95 % confidence level) within a specified time frame (e.g. 50 ms).

Note 2 to entry: Examples of initiation input are: an electrical current in Amperes, a mechanical force in Newtons and an optical energy in Watts.

3.2.3

ancillary equipment

device which does not form part of a pyrotechnic article, but which is supplied with it and is required in order that the article functions safely and correctly when used according to the instructions for use

3.2.4

batch test

test performed on a sample of products taken at random from a production batch to check compliance with Clause 12

3.2.5

black powder

intimate mixture of charcoal and sodium nitrate or potassium nitrate with or without sulphur

3.2.6

burning rate

mass of consumed pyrotechnic composition of the effect charge in grams divided by the effect time in seconds

3.2.7

combustive behaviour

self-sustained chemical reaction that propagates at a velocity lower than the sound velocity of the reacting effect charge

3.2.8

critical nonconformity

nonconformity that judgement and experience indicate is likely to result in hazardous or unsafe conditions

Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class A nonconformity’ in ISO 2859‑1:2026.

3.2.9

critical nonconforming unit

nonconforming unit with one or more critical nonconformities, with or without major or minor nonconformities

3.2.10

debris

rigid or resilient part of a pyrotechnic article which remains after it has ceased to function

3.2.11

delay element

pyrotechnic device designed in such a manner that it generates a delay in the transmission of fire in a pyrotechnic train

Note 1 to entry: Delay fuses are specific examples of such pyrotechnic delays.

3.2.12

detonation

reaction which propagates through an explosive at supersonic velocity in the reacting explosive

3.2.13

detonative explosive

substance or mixture of substances which can undergo a fast-internal decomposition reaction leading to a detonation in normal use

3.2.14

disposal

destroying the article or the pyrotechnic substances it contains or otherwise rendering the article harmless and, for end users, includes arranging the safe return of the article to the competent body specified in the instructions for use

3.2.15

effect charge

pyrotechnic composition which, upon functioning, will burn or explode to produce the principal effects of a pyrotechnic article

3.2.16

effect time

total duration of effect from its emergence until it entirely vanishes

3.2.17

electrostatic discharge

ESD

sudden and momentary electric current that flows between two objects at different electrical potentials

3.2.18

external effect

effect that develops outside the article when functioning

Note 1 to entry: External effect does not include the external surface temperature of the article.

3.2.19

flash composition

inherent mixture of a metal and an oxidizer

Note 1 to entry: This is usually perchlorate or nitrate metal based.

3.2.20

friction head

ignition head designed to be ignited by friction

3.2.21

gross mass

total mass of a pyrotechnic article not including any ancillary equipment

3.2.22

hazard zone

space where persons or property could suffer significant harm from the intended or likely unintended effects of the article

3.2.23

igniter

article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) used to initiate combustion or deflagration, as defined in EN 16265:—

Note 1 to entry: It may be actuated by chemical, electrical, optical or mechanical means.

3.2.24

ignition device

pyrotechnic device which is used to start and/or transmit ignition of/to pyrotechnic compositions, as defined in EN 16265:—

3.2.25

ignition head

initial fuse consisting of pyrotechnic composition only

3.2.26

incompatible substances

substances or materials that react together resulting in unsafe conditions

3.2.27

intended fragmentation

intended production of fragments by the explosive reaction of the pyrotechnic compositions included in a pyrotechnic article

3.2.28

leading wires

electrical wires attached to the igniter to lead the electric firing current to it

3.2.29

leading optical fibre

optical fibre attached to the igniter to lead the optical firing energy to it

3.2.30

life saving device

pyrotechnic article that is intended to protect human life in distress situations and exposure to harmful conditions and/or give support to rescue operations

Note 1 to entry: Such articles may include different generic types as defined in Clauses 3.3 and 3.4 (e.g. flares, actuators, pyrotechnic actuated dispenser…).

3.2.31

major nonconformity

nonconformity, other than a critical nonconformity, which is likely to result in failure, to reduce materially the usability of the pyrotechnic article, or to increase the potential hazard

Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class B nonconformity’ in ISO 2859‑1:2026.

3.2.32

major nonconforming unit

nonconforming unit with one or more major nonconformities, with or without minor nonconformities, but with no critical nonconformities

3.2.33

minor nonconformity

nonconformity that is not likely to reduce materially the usability of the pyrotechnic article

Note 1 to entry: This type of nonconformity is referred to as ‘class C nonconformity’ in ISO 2859‑1:2026.

3.2.34

minor nonconforming unit

nonconforming unit with one or more minor nonconformities, but with no critical or major nonconformities

3.2.35

misfire

incomplete functioning or no functioning of a pyrotechnic article after application of initiation stimulus

3.2.36

net explosive content

NEC

total mass of pyrotechnic compositions in a pyrotechnic article

3.2.37

no-fire level

maximum level of the initiation input that can be applied without causing an igniter to function within a specified time period

Note 1 to entry: No fire level can be an electrical current in Amperes, a mechanical force in Newton or an optical energy in Watts.

Note 2 to entry: No-fire level is a characteristic given in the instructions for use of every igniter. It is generally associated with a probability level (generally 99,9 % at 95 % confidence level) within a specified time frame (e.g. 50 ms).

3.2.38

nonconforming unit

pyrotechnic article with one or more nonconformities

3.2.39

nonconformity

non-fulfilment of a requirement

[SOURCE: EN ISO 9000:2015, 3.6.9 [1] Note 1 to entry has been deleted.]

3.2.40

packaging

wrapping in which an item is presented for transport, storage and/or sale

3.2.41

powder actuated tool

PAT

tool with a piston powered by the hot combustion gases from a cartridge and comprising powder actuated fixing and hard marking tools

[SOURCE: EN 15895:2025, 3.1 [2]]

3.2.42

primary pack

smallest package of one or more pyrotechnic articles with the same registration number, offered for retail sale as a single unit

3.2.43

principal effect

main effect a pyrotechnic article is designed to produce, as defined by its technical specification

3.2.44

projected fragment

debris projected while functioning

3.2.45

projected frontal area

two-dimensional area of a fragment or part of an article obtained by geometrically projecting its shape on to a plane that is perpendicular to the direction of its motion

Note 1 to entry: In ordinary terms, it can be considered as the “shadow” of such a fragment or part perpendicularly to the direction of its motion.

3.2.46

personal protective equipment

equipment that has to be worn by exposed people in the hazard zone

3.247

pyrotechnic component

component of a pyrotechnic article which contains one or more pyrotechnic compositions

3.2.48

pyrotechnic composition

explosive substance or mixture of explosive substances which is designed, on ignition or initiation, to produce heat, light, sound, gas or smoke or a combination of such effects through self-sustained exothermic chemical reactions

3.2.49

pyrotechnic operation

operation which leads to the intentional direct application of a mechanical, thermal and/or chemical stress on the pyrotechnic composition without intending to ignite or initiate the article at the time the stress is applied

3.2.50

pyrotechnic train

set of pyrotechnic components which are functionally linked and, after an initial input of energy, function in a designed sequence to transmit, enhance and/or distribute ignition to one or more other pyrotechnic components

3.2.51

remote effect

effect obtained by propulsion or projection beyond the safe firing distance and generating hazards by the functioning of the article

Note 1 to entry: Examples of articles that are propelled are hand-held rockets and propelled signals. Examples of articles that project are signal cartridges and simulation devices.

3.2.52

safe/arm device

mechanical device which is intended to interrupt the propagation of the firing signal within the article when it is in its “safe” position and to allow the propagation when in “arm” position

3.2.53

safe firing distance

minimum distance between the user and the place where the pyrotechnic article is set and fired

3.2.54

secondary effect

effect other than the principal effect

3.2.55

secondary explosive

detonative explosive that can only be initiated by a detonation and not by flames, sparks or, more generally, means that produce heat

3.2.56

type test

test performed on a sample of products, representative of the production envisaged,

Note 1 to entry: The definition is in line with Directive 2013/29/EU [8] in order to demonstrate their compliance with the Essential Safety Requirements of Annex I and its relevant provisions.

Note 2 to entry: The successful submission to type tests leads to the attribution of an EU-type examination certificate.

3.2.57

‘use by’ date

latest date by which an article may be used if it is to safely exhibit the performance characteristics described in its technical specifications

3.3.1

flare

article consisting of a light and/or radiated heat producing pyrotechnic composition, with or without a casing, with or without means of ignition

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

3.3.2

flash device

article consisting of a casing and flash powder all assembled in one piece, with or without a means of ignition

Note 1 to entry: Flash powder is not submitted to 7.6 and 13.2.17.

3.3.3

gas generator

article consisting of a pyrotechnic composition designed to generate gases, with or without a casing, with or without an ignition device

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of gas generation is higher than 15 ms.

3.3.4

heater

article containing a pyrotechnic composition designed to generate heat

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

3.3.5

other cartridge

article comprising a cup containing means of ignition, with or without projecting charge and effect to be projected, and designed to be fired from a device having the means of holding the cartridge and providing the stimulus to function the means of ignition

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: Such article excludes flash device.

3.3.6

pyromechanical device

article consisting of mechanically mobile parts which are driven by the reaction of a pyrotechnic composition, with no or limited effect outside the device

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

3.3.7

pyrotechnic actuated disperser

article containing a charge of pyrotechnic composition or unit which ejects or disperses a liquid, gel or solid particles without forming aerosol as its principal effect

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher than 15 ms.

3.3.8

rocket and rocket motor

respectively, article which is propelled by one or more rocket motors and which delivers a given rising height without exhibiting a random trajectory, and article delivering a given thrust and consisting of a pyrotechnic composition, generally a solid propellant, either contained or not in a casing fitted with one or more nozzles

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: Rocket motors which are not intended for model rockets, but are designed and intended for use as components of pyrotechnic articles are “semi-finished pyrotechnic product” and need to comply with the corresponding categorization criteria. All other rocket motors are subject to Directive 2014/28/EU.

3.3.9

semi-finished pyrotechnic product

article made of or containing pyrotechnic composition, with or without means of ignition, which is designed not to function by itself but requires inclusion or installation in or assembly with other parts to exhibit the intended performance characteristics and to achieve the intended effect

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher than 15 ms. Black powder and flash composition are not submitted to 7.6 and 13.2.17.

Note 2 to entry: The definition applies to articles the performance characteristics of which cannot be verified independently from the articles they are designed and intended to be included in.

Note 3 to entry: Products which are placed on the market composed of separate parts designed to be assembled before use are not considered as “semi-finished pyrotechnic products”.

3.3.10

smoke/aerosol generator

article consisting of a pyrotechnic composition designed to generate smoke or aerosol, with or without a casing and with or without a means of ignition

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

3.3.11

sound emitter

article designed to emit sounds through the ignition of the pyrotechnic composition(s) it contains

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour when the duration of its principal effect is higher than 15 ms. Black powder and flash composition are not submitted to 7.6 and 13.2.17.

3.4.1

actuator

article containing a pyrotechnic composition and a means of ignition, producing mechanical effect by means of gas production

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: Typical effects are: activate (press, hit, push, pull), unlock/open, lock/close, separate, weld/join fasten/penetrate, etc.

3.4.2

aircraft flare

flare designed to be fixed to or launched from an aircraft

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “flare”.

3.4.3

consolidated grain

solid charge of pyrotechnic composition which is given an intended shape, volume and density during the manufacturing process by means of an appropriate method such as pressing, casting, moulding, extrusion or rolling

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: The surface of the consolidated grain can be primed to facilitate its ignition or partially inhibited to fix its burning behaviour over a given time frame. It may be supplied within or mechanically linked to a mechanical part which acts as a casing, support or fixing element.

Note 3 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “semi-finished pyrotechnic product”.

3.4.4

fast-lock device

article containing a pyrotechnic composition and a means of ignition, producing the desired mechanical effect (unlock/open, separate/disjoin), e.g. by rupturing a component of the article

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “pyromechanical device”.

3.4.5

hand-held flare

flare designed to be held in the hand

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “flare”.

3.4.6

hand-held rocket

article operated by hand and fitted with a rocket motor in order to exhibit a light, sound or smoke effect at a distance in the air

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: The definition applies to other uses of hand-held rockets than signalling under SOLAS regulation (not subject to Directive 2013/29/EU and then to the present standard), such as anti-hail, pest-killing, plant-care applications, etc.

Note 3 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “rocket and rocket motor”.

3.4.7

line-thrower

gas generating pyrotechnic device used to project or propel a projectile with line(s) attached

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “rocket and rocket motor” or “gas generator”.

3.4.8

model rocket and model rocket motor

article for small-size simulation of rocket and rocket motors

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “rocket and rocket motor”.

3.4.9

power device

article containing pyrotechnic composition(s) designed to generate gases or a pressure impulse in a short time, including power cartridges

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “gas generator”.

3.4.10

projecting cartridge

cartridge projecting an effect specially designed for a specific technical use

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its projected effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “other cartridge” or “gas generator”, as appropriate.

3.4.11

propelled signal

article containing a rocket motor which propels a charge of pyrotechnic composition which generates light, sound, or smoke for the purpose of signalling. It does not include signal cartridges

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its propelled effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “rocket and rocket motor” and any appropriate generic type according to the type of principal effect.

3.4.12

pyrotechnic fire-fighting device

article containing a pyrotechnic composition which produces or disperses a fire extinguishing agent

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “gas generator” or “smoke /aerosol generator” or “pyrotechnic actuated disperser”.

Note 3 to entry: Such article is also named “fire suppression device”, or “fire suppressant dispersing device” in the UN recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods [9].

3.4.13

reactive target

article containing pyrotechnic composition which, when struck by an impacting projectile, produces light, heat, sound, sparks or smoke or a combination of two or more of these effects to record a “hit”

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its principal effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the appropriate generic types according to the principal effects.

3.4.14

rock-breaking cartridge

gas generating cartridge designed and intended to break different materials (usually rocks or concrete)

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its principal effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “gas generator”.

3.4.15

signal cartridge

cartridge projecting a light, sound, or smoke effect for the purpose of signalling

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its principal effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “other cartridge”.

3.4.16

simulation device

article containing a means of ignition, a charge of pyrotechnic composition and an effect intended for use in combat simulation or other technical purposes; designed to be placed or thrown

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour, except when the duration of its principal effect is smaller than 15 ms.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “Other cartridge” or “smoke generator” or “pyrotechnic actuated disperser” or other generic types according to the principal effect.

EXAMPLES  

— paintball cartridge;

— cartridge containing paint sachet and/ or paintballs for a marking effect;

— airsoft cartridge;

— cartridge containing airsoft pellets and/or other pellets to give a low hazard fragmentation effect;

— other projectile cartridge;

— cartridge containing other fills, such as paper or powder, to give a low hazard fragmentation effect.

3.4.17

star

consolidated grain, intended to burn in the air and give an individual visual effect

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour

Note 2 to entry: A star may have various shapes: spherical, cylindrical, cubic, rectangular, etc. It can include a charge of pyrotechnic composition to break it in fragments during its combustion to improve or modify the visual effect (“fragmentation” star).

Note 3 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “semi-finished pyrotechnic product”.

3.4.18

surface flare

flare designed to be placed on the ground

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “flare”.

3.4.19

thermite cartridge

cartridge containing a pyrotechnic substance designed to produce heat and molten metal

Note 1 to entry: Such article exhibits a combustive behaviour.

Note 2 to entry: It is a subtype of the generic type “heater”.

Other pyrotechnic articles shall belong to one of the following generic types:

— flare;

— flash device;

— gas generator;

— heater;

— other cartridge;

— pyrotechnical device;

— pyrotechnic actuated disperser;

— rocket and rocket motor;

— semi-finished pyrotechnic product;

— smoke/aerosol generator;

— sound emitter.

Each other pyrotechnic article belongs to a generic type as defined in 3.3.

These generic types can contain the following subtypes:

— actuator;

— aircraft flare;

— consolidated grain;

— fast-lock device;

— hand-held flare;

— hand-held rocket;

— line-thrower;

— model rocket and model rocket motor;

— power device;

— projecting cartridge;

— propelled signal;

— pyrotechnic fire-fighting device;

— reactive target;

— rock-breaking cartridge;

— signal cartridge;

— simulation device;

— star;

— surface flare;

— thermite cartridge.

Any other pyrotechnic article shall belong to one of the following categories:

— Category P1: pyrotechnic articles other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles which present a low hazard;

— Category P2: pyrotechnic articles other than fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles which are intended for handling or use only by persons with specialist knowledge.

Determination whether an article is to be categorized as P1 or P2 is made by application of a sequence of general and specific criteria (see 6.2) to identify the hazard level of the article in normal and foreseeable conditions of use.

Articles may be categorized as P2, even though they might fulfil all technical requirements for P1.

If an article does not fulfil one or more of the categorization criteria for P1 applicable to its generic type, it shall be categorized P2.

The flow chart given in Figure A.1 specifies the way the sequence of criteria is organized. It may be used as an explanatory complement to 6.2.2 to 6.2.4. These criteria are organized in four steps:

— Step 1 “Nominal Use” deals with the level of knowledge that is needed to use the article in a correct manner;

— Step 2 “Handling” deals with the level of knowledge that is needed to handle the article safely;

— Step 3 “Setting” deals with the conditions which shall be addressed when preparing the ignition of the article;

— Step 4 “Functioning” deals with the nature, performance and related hazard level of the effects produced by the article; both principal and secondary effects are considered.

Specialist knowledge [steps S 1.1, S 2.1, S 2.2, S3.1, S 3.2, S3.3, S 3.4, S3.6, S3.7, S4.12 and S4.13 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 when additional technical knowledge is required that is not possible to include in the instructions for use for the safe handling and use of the article and/or the mandatory use of specified equipment, installation and/or ancillary device where appropriate.

Pyrotechnic operation [step S 1.2 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if the setting or using of the article requires a pyrotechnic operation.

Net explosive content [step S 1.3 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if the net explosive content of the article, is higher than the values given in Table 1, column “NEC” for the individual generic types.

Sensitiveness [steps S 3.4, S 3.5 of Figure A.1]

In the case where the user might have possible contact with bare pyrotechnic composition or if composition is likely to become exposed during normal conditions of handling or use, the article shall be assigned to category P2 when the self-ignition temperature of the considered composition is less than or equal to 150 °C or when its sensitiveness, when tested as described in 13.2.13.1, meets one of the following requirements:

Safe firing distances and hazard zone

General

For the purpose of categorization, two safety distances shall be considered:

— the safe firing distance;

— the hazard zone, when there are remote effects from the firing point.

Safe firing distance [step S 3.1, S 4.3 of Figure A.1]

The safe firing distance or the performance data for its calculation are given on the label or in the instructions for use.

The decision whether the considered articles are categorized as P1 or P2 depends on the following aspects:

— in those cases where specific protective measures are required and those protective measures are either not readily available to the public (e.g. not sold in the consumer market or limited to persons with specialist knowledge) or not supplied with the article, the article shall be categorized as P2;

— in the case where the safe firing distance shall be calculated by the user from performance data, the article shall be categorized as P2.

Hazard zone [steps S 3.1, S 4.3, S 4.4 of Figure A.1]

The hazard zone shall include the safe firing distance.

For P1 articles, the dimensions and shape of the hazard zone shall be provided to the end users as illustrated in Figure 1.

In the case where the dimensions and/or shape of the hazard zone shall be calculated by the user from performance data, the article shall be categorized as P2.

In the case where the defined hazard zone cannot be managed by the user, the article shall be categorized as P2.

The above criteria are not applicable to life saving devices.

Key

Figure 1 — Control of the direction of propulsion or projection

General

In the following criteria, both principal and secondary effects shall be considered.

External surface temperature [steps S 4.2 of Figure A.1]

If skin contact cannot be avoided, the article shall be assigned to category P2 if, when tested as described in 13.2.13.2, the external surface temperature of the handling part of the article exceeds 45 °C.

When the article is intended to be handled during a short time before being placed on the ground or in a specified ancillary device, the above requirement only applies during the hand-held phase.

Falling debris [steps S 4.5, S 4.6, S4.7 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to P2 category:

— if one or more pieces of falling debris exceed 1 kg; or

— if one or more pieces of falling debris land outside the hazard zone with a calculated impact kinetic energy exceeding 1 J; or

— if the calculated impact kinetic energy of any individual debris exceeds 5 J.

The presence of falling debris inside and outside the hazard zone shall be confirmed by recording during function tests as described in 13.2.10.

The following formulae give an equivalent approach corresponding to the energy limit of 1 J and 5 J.

For rigid debris (e.g. hard plastic, ceramic, metallic or wooden fragments), the size and shape of foreseeable falling debris which land outside the hazard zone (e.g. rocket motor casing) shall comply with the following formulae:

— when the velocity of falling debris is not controlled by specific means such as parachutes (e.g. free fall debris):

for the energy limit of 5 J

for the energy limit of 1 J

where

M is the mass of the falling debris (kg);

C_x is the drag coefficient of the falling debris. If the actual value is unknown, use the value specified in Annex B, Table B.1 for the corresponding shape and orientation;

S_d is the reference surface (projected frontal area) of the falling debris (m²).

— when the velocity of falling debris is controlled by specific means such as parachutes (i.e. C_x = 1):

for the energy limit of 5 J

for the energy limit of 1 J

where

M is the mass of the falling debris (kg);

S_p is the surface of the parachute (m²).

For resilient debris (e.g. fragments of soft or flexible plastic, felt or cardboard fragment, fabric) the mass M may be weighted with a coefficient < 1 depending on the nature of the debris.

When necessary, static tests of the articles may be made to determine or confirm the possible size, shape and energy of falling debris.

In the case of fragments, the calculation may be made from assumptions on the mass, dimensions and shape of the largest foreseeable fragment.

Thermal effect [steps S 4.8 and S 4.9 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if one of the following criteria is met:

— when the exposure time t(s) is lower than or equal to 120 s:

— when the exposure time t(s) is greater than 120 s:

where

D is the thermal dose effect at the safe firing distance (kW/m²)^4/3.s;

t is the time during which the user is exposed to the thermal flux in seconds (exposure time). The exposure time may be different from the burning time of the article e.g. the duration of the hand-held phase when the article is intended not to be handled during the complete burning time;

Ц(t) is the “density of heat flow rate” measured during exposure time (kW/m²);

Ц_m is the mean value of the “density of heat flow rate” measured during exposure time at the safe firing distance (kW/m²).

The thermal dose criterion shall use either the measurement (when tested as described in 13.2.10) or the calculation as specified in Annex C of the “density of heat flow rate” versus “duration of the exposure”.

Burning rate of Flares and Smoke/Aerosol generators [steps S 4.10 and S 4.11 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if, when tested as described in 13.2.10, the burning rate exceeds:

v_b = m_e/ t > 10 g/s

where

v_b is the burning rate of the article (g/s);

m_e is the net explosive content of the article (g);

t is the burning time of the article (s).

This requirement applies to flares and devices designed to release smokes or aerosols in the atmosphere for signalling, marking, testing, pest control, and similar applications. It does not apply to gas generators, rocket motors, propelled articles, life saving devices and pyrotechnic fire-fighting devices.

Acoustic pressure level effects [step S 4.14 and S 4.15 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if, when tested as described in 13.2.5, the C-weighted sound pressure level L_C,peak is higher than 140 dB (C) or the maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure level (L_AImax) exceeds 120 dB (A), except when wearing hearing protection is required by the instructions for use.

The above criterion is not applicable to life saving devices and pyrotechnic fire-fighting devices.

When the intrinsic noise level of the article is effectively damped in all circumstances of normal use, (e.g. mole killing devices, rock breaking cartridges), measurements shall be made in damped conditions representative of normal use as defined by the technical specifications of the article.

For projected or propelled articles which produce a noise outside the safe firing distance, measurements shall be made either at a known distance from the main effect point or by keeping the articles at a fixed point during the function test. The sound level at the boundary of the hazard zone shall be calculated from these measurements as specified in the following formula:

where

L_S is the sound pressure at the boundary of the hazard zone;

L_M is the sound pressure level, measured on the measuring point;

r_M is the measuring distance;

r_S is the distance between the main effect point and the closest point of the boundary of the hazard zone to the main effect point.

NOTE For sound emitters, the safe firing distance is not necessarily based on the acoustic level of the sound emitting charge. It might be based on other aspects which are typical of the normal use of the article, e.g. falling or projected debris or thermal effect.

Projected debris and fragments [steps S 4.18, S 4.19 of Figure A.1]

The article shall be assigned to category P2 if, during testing as described in 13.2.10 (high speed camera or video recording) debris and fragments are projected from the firing point outside the safe firing distance specified on the label of the article or in its instructions for use.

When the user has to be present in the hazard zone for any justified reason during the functioning of the article, but at a larger distance than the safe firing distance, personal protective equipment (PPE) to be worn by the user shall be specified in its instructions for use of the article and shall be compliant with 6.2.2.5.2. Demonstration of its appropriateness shall be made by function tests described in 13.2.15 (method A or B) or any other test that may be more appropriate in accordance with the type of the specified PPE.

Kinetic energy / Thrust [steps S 4.16, S 4.17 of Figure A.1]

Gas generators shall be categorized as P2 if, during functioning as described in 13.2.10, the maximum motion of the article exceeds 15 m.

Semi-finished pyrotechnic products

Semi-finished product shall be categorized as P2, except when the application of the flowchart as specified in Annex A leads to its categorization as P1.

Projected or propelled objects as principal effect

Pyrotechnic actuated disperser that, intentionally by design, projects or propels solid objects other than soft light-weight materials such as paper, cork, non-rigid foams shall be categorized as P2, except when it complies with the following criteria:

— Fragments shall not be made of metal or glass

— Fragments shall not have sharp edges, points or other shapes that are known to be harmful at low kinetic energies

— It shall only be used in controlled areas, a controlled area being an area that prevents through design or size the intentionally propelled fragments from leaving the area

— All persons within the controlled area shall wear the appropriate personal protective equipment that is normally required by the national body for the activity being undertaken or as specified in its instructions for use of the article. Personal protective equipment shall be easily available on the market or supplied with the article.

Compliance with the above criteria shall be verified by examination of design as described in 13.2.3 and by examination of labelling and user’s instructions as specified in 14.5 and 14.6.

When an article does not fulfil one or more of the categorization criteria for P1 applicable to its generic type given in Table 1, it shall be categorized P2.

Table 1 — Criteria for P1 categorization

Pyrotechnic articles shall not contain incompatible substances unless effective technical measures have been taken to permanently segregate incompatible substances one from the other, effective measures have been taken to stabilize mixtures of incompatible substances, or the technical documentation provided with the article can demonstrate that any mixtures of incompatible substances do not present a risk to safety.

NOTE It belongs to the technical designers to define the effective measures according to the typical design of the article.

This requirement shall be verified by examination of the design from the technical documentation provided with the article as described in 13.2.3.

The following substances shall be forbidden:

— arsenic or arsenic compounds;

— polychlorobenzenes;

— mercury compounds;

— lead compounds (except for those included in ignition devices);

— white phosphorus;

— picrates or picric acid.

Life saving devices and rocket motors containing small quantities (less than 2,5 % of the NEC) of lead compounds, picrates or picric acid are submitted to the present document if the intended use justifies it.

This requirement shall be verified by examination of the design from the technical documentation provided with the article as described in 13.2.3.

NOTE Any International or European regulation regarding forbidden substances is intended to be considered.

The ability of the article to be disposed of safely shall be verified by examination of the information given technical documentation provided with the article on the design and manufacturing process of the article as described in 13.2.3 and 13.2.18.

Disposal of any pyrotechnic article shall be in accordance with instructions about safe disposal in the instructions for use. The disposal process shall have a minimum effect on the environment.

NOTE Attention is drawn to the national regulation that can apply.

This requirement shall be verified by examination of the information about safe disposal in the instructions for use as described in 14.5 h).

Any means of ignition shall be protected to avoid accidental initiation of the article. This requirement shall be verified by visual examination as described in 13.2.18.

For pyrotechnic articles equipped with ignition devices which were already successfully tested as given in EN 16265:—, no further testing of the ignition devices is required. Otherwise, the ignition devices shall comply with the following requirements of EN 16265:—:

— safety features (see 7.4 and EN 16265:—, 5.5);

— mechanical resistance of leading wires (if any) or leading optical fibre (if any) (see EN 16265:—, 5.8.1 and 5.8.2);

— determination of all-fire and no-fire levels (see EN 16265:—, 5.9);

— electrical characteristics (see EN 16265:—, 5.11);

— resistance to ESD (see EN 16265:—, 5.12).

These tests may be performed on the articles or on subcomponents of the pyrotechnic articles which include their ignition device provided that their functioning remains representative of the normal behaviour of the ignition device in the article. Test reports proving these requirements are fulfilled may be provided.

Each pyrotechnic article shall be equipped with safety features which are appropriate to its mode of initiation.

For articles that are sensitive to mechanical shocks, drops or other stimuli with the potential to cause unintended initiation, if the safety feature is not already a part of the included ignition device, the pyrotechnic article shall be equipped:

— with a safe/arm device, a safety pin or any other device intended to stop propagation of ignition along the whole pyrotechnic train; or

— with other means of protection to prevent inadvertent initiation.

The presence of the safety features shall be checked by visual examination as described in 13.2.18 and their effectiveness shall be verified as described in 13.2.7 (mechanical conditioning) and 13.2.8 (mechanical impact test). No initiation shall take place during these tests and the safety features shall remain in their safe position. This last requirement shall be verified by visual examination as described in 13.2.18.

Integral safety features shall be checked by verification of construction and design as specified in 8.2 and their effectiveness shall be verified as described in 13.2.7 (mechanical conditioning) and 13.2.8 (mechanical impact test). No initiation shall take place during these tests and the safety features shall remain in their safe position. This last requirement shall be verified by function test as described in 13.2.10.3.4.

When the user could be exposed to the pyrotechnic effects during the ignition operation, the pyrotechnic article shall be equipped with an appropriate delay to allow the user to retire to the safe firing distance or assume the safe article orientation for hand-held devices as specified in the instructions for use. This requirement shall be verified as described in 13.2.10.3.1 and 13.2.6.

When the article is designed to generate toxic substances as intended use (e.g. pesticides), corresponding information shall be supplied on the appropriate means of limiting exposure to these reaction products. This requirement shall be verified by examination of the instructions for use as described in 14.5 l).

Pyrotechnic articles of categories P1 and P2 shall not contain detonative explosives other than black powder and flash composition, except when they meet the following conditions:

a) the extraction of the detonative explosive from the pyrotechnic article is only possible with the need of specific tools, knowledge and/or methods;

b) for category P1, the pyrotechnic article, as designed and manufactured and when functioned in accordance with its intended use, cannot function in a detonative manner and cannot initiate secondary explosives;

c) for category P2, the pyrotechnic article is designed and intended not to function in a detonative manner, or, if designed to detonate, it cannot as designed and manufactured initiate secondary explosives.

Requirements a), b) and c) shall be verified by examination of the design from the technical documentation provided with the article and visual inspection as described in 13.2.18.

Requirements b) and c) shall be verified by test as described in 13.2.17, except when the article exhibits an external effect and a combustive behaviour as specified in 3.3 and 3.4.

When tested as described in 13.2.10, each pyrotechnic article shall function completely and attain the performance characteristics defined in its technical specifications.

The articles that have been exposed to mechanical conditioning (13.2.7) and/or mechanical impact test (13.2.8 – see list in 8.4 of this document) and to thermal conditioning (13.2.9.2.1) shall function safely and completely.

When a ‘use by’ date is specified for the article and is greater than two years after the manufacturing of the article, its correct functioning at the 'use by' date shall be demonstrated:

— either by results of firings of articles at the 'use by' date where available;

— or by function test as described in 13.2.10, after extension of the thermal conditioning test over a period of time that shall be determined from the 'use by' date as described in 13.2.9.2.4.

When the ‘use by’ date is earlier than 2 years, it is already verified by thermal conditioning as described in 13.2.9

When tested as described in 13.2.2 and 13.2.3, the pyrotechnic article shall be in accordance with the technical documentation provided with the article regarding construction, dimensions, mass and composition of pyrotechnic substances and mixtures, etc. including tolerances as defined in the technical specifications of the article.

The labelling of the pyrotechnic article and instructions for use shall be verified as specified in Clause 14, by visual examination as described in 13.2.18 and by measurement as described in 13.2.14.

Mechanical impact test as described in 13.2.8 shall be performed on the following unpacked articles:

— articles (fitted with their safety features) which are designed to function by impact or shock or designed to arm on acceleration;

— articles (fitted with their safety features if any) which exhibit bare pyrotechnic composition;

— articles which exhibit a protection of their pyrotechnic compositions only by varnish or by a deformable or thin casing;

— the following generic types: flares (including the subtype hand-held flare flare and rocket), gas generators, pyromechanical devices, pyrotechnic disperser (including the subtype simulation device), rocket motors, smoke/aerosol generator (including the subtype simulation device), sound emitter (including the subtype simulation device) or other cartridges, the casing of which is designed to withstand an internal pressure developed by the normal functioning of the article.

Articles shall not ignite as a result of mechanical impact test nor release pyrotechnic composition from the article nor exhibit visible damages such as deformations (except those which do not alter the shape of the article or expose the inside of the article), ruptures or cracks. See 7. and Clause 6. These occurrences shall be recorded as positive results.

When tested as described in 13.2.7 and 13.2.8:

— P1 articles shall not exhibit any loss of pyrotechnic composition from the article. It shall be checked by visual examination as described in 13.2.18;

— For P2 articles, the loose pyrotechnic composition found outside the article after mechanical conditioning shall be weighed. The total mass of loose pyrotechnic composition shall not exceed 2 % of the NEC or 0,5 g, whichever is the smaller. If the pyrotechnic composition cannot be separated from the loose material, the same limits shall apply to the whole loose material.

If the article is intended to be used in humid or wet conditions, thermal conditioning as described in 13.2.9.2.1 or 13.2.9.2.2 shall be performed in the presence of the highest level of humidity defined in the technical specifications of the article and the article shall function correctly and completely as described in 13.2.10.

If the article is intended to be used in or under water, the water immersion test shall be performed as described in 13.2.16. The article shall function correctly and completely as described in 13.2.10.

If the article is intended to be kept or used at high (60 °C or more) and/or low (below 0 °C) temperatures, performance tests as described in 13.2.10 shall be carried out after conditioning as described in 13.2.9.2.2 and/or 13.2.9.2.3 at the highest and/or lowest temperatures defined in the technical specifications of the article instead of 13.2.9.2.1. The article shall function correctly and completely and attain the performance characteristics defined in its technical specifications.

When tested as described in 13.2.10 (and 13.2.15 if appropriate), only intended fragmentation or intended opening of the article defined in the technical specifications of the article shall take place.

For P1 articles, no fragments shall be observed outside the safe firing distance.

For P2 articles, no fragments shall be observed outside the hazard zone.

For semi-finished pyrotechnic articles, only verification of design (see 8.2) shall apply.

For rocket motors (except for those to be used in fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnic articles, see 3.3.8), thrust measurement shall be made as described in 13.2.11. The measured thrust and tolerances shall comply with the technical specification of the article.

Where a primary pack is used, it shall be of a size to enable labelling. Conformity to this requirement shall be verified by checking the label as specified in Clause 14.

If it is used to protect the contained article(s) (e.g. as a safety feature or protection of the means of ignition):

— in type testing, the pyrotechnic articles shall be tested for thermal and mechanical conditioning (see 11.2.1, Table 2) and, where required in 8.4, for mechanical impact within the primary pack. Then, its integrity shall be verified by visual examination as described in 13.2.18;

— in batch testing, the integrity of the primary pack shall be verified by visual examination as described in 13.2.18.

Type tests shall be carried out for each new article during EU-type examination.

Each pyrotechnic article shall meet with the following requirements.

— Clause 7, Construction;

— Clause 8, Performance (excluding the verification of labelling);

— Clause 9, Requirements for semi-finished pyrotechnic articles and rocket motors;

— Clause 10, Primary pack;

— Information regarding suitable instructions and, where necessary, markings in respect of safe handling, storage, use (including safety distances) and disposal, as well as specification of all devices and accessories needed and operating instructions for safe functioning of the pyrotechnic article (See Clause 14).

A minimum of 10 pyrotechnic articles shall be tested as given in Table 2.

Table 2 — Number of items to be tested

For pyrotechnic articles fitted with a friction head, three extra items shall be tested for the determination of resistance to ignition by an abrasive surface using the relevant test method given in 13.2.12.

For pyrotechnic articles fitted with integral safety features (see 7.4), three extra items shall be tested as described in 13.2.10.3.4 for the verification of the safe position after mechanical conditioning (13.2.7) and mechanical impact test (13.2.8).

For the articles listed in 8.4, three extra items shall be tested as described in 13.2.10, after the mechanical impact test (13.2.8).

For pyrotechnic articles that contain detonative explosives, 3 or 5 extra items shall be tested as described in 13.2.17, Method A or Method B.

The number of primary packs to be examined shall be sufficient to obtain the number of individual articles which are required in Table 2 and 11.2.2.

The test report of the type tests shall include at least a reference to this document, the complete identification of the sample under test, the date of completion of testing and the relevant observations concerning the applicable type test requirements for the tested pyrotechnic articles as given in Table 2 and 11.2.2. The test report shall include information about the chosen protection (if any) of the ignition device and whether the primary pack is used for labelling.

Batch tests shall be carried out on articles taken from a new batch in serial production to demonstrate the conformity to the type.

For the purposes of batch testing in accordance with product quality assurance acceptance, sampling shall be applied as described in 12.2 to 12.3.

Table 3 provides an overview of the applicable requirements in batch testing with reference to the specific clause/subclause in this document.

Table 3 — Applicable requirements in batch testing

Sampling shall be performed in accordance with ISO 2859‑1:2026 using double sampling plans and applying the switching procedures for normal, tightened and reduced inspection. Inspection level S-4 shall apply.

In the case of batches smaller than 35 001 articles, the sampling plans of ISO 2859‑1:2026 are not applicable for the AQL specified in 12.7 and the following single sampling plan given in Table 4 shall be applied.

Table 4— Batch test sampling plan for lot sizes smaller than 35 001

NOTE This sampling plan applies to destructive and non-destructive batch tests. In case of lots smaller than 35 001 articles, the sample size given in this table deviates from the requirements of ISO 2859‑1:2026.

An equivalent standard (e.g.: ISO 2859‑3 [6] or ISO 2859‑5 [7]) may be used in case of application of quality assurance of the production process.

The unit of product on which the sample size is based shall be the individual article.

For pyrotechnic articles which are supplied in primary packs, the appropriate number of primary packs shall be used to give the number of articles required for the necessary sample size.

EXAMPLE If a primary pack contained 3 individual articles and 20 individual articles were required for testing, then 7 primary packs would need to be sampled.

For the testing of primary packs as a whole (e.g. labelling), the unit of product on which the sample is based shall be a primary pack and the appropriate number of primary packs shall be sampled and examined for nonconformities.

Nonconformities shall be classed as given in Table 5.

The following Table 5 gives examples and is not exhaustive. Where there are conflicts, then the definitions of critical, major and minor nonconformities shall take precedence and be considered on a case by case basis.

Table 5 — Examples of nonconformities

In the case where the same label is used throughout a batch, the text of one label shall be examined.

In the case where a batch contains different variants, the number of different labels used in the batch shall be determined and the text of one label of each kind should be examined.

The label shall be examined in accordance with the minimum labelling requirements in Clause 14.

The information shall not be misleading or incomplete.

The test report shall include at least a reference to this document, the complete identification of the sample under test, the date of completion of testing and the relevant observations concerning the applicable batch test requirements for the tested pyrotechnic articles as given in Table 5. The test report shall include information about the chosen protection of the means of ignition and whether the primary pack is used for labelling.

Acceptance or rejection of the batch shall be determined by the number of nonconforming units of each type, as described in 12.2, 12.7.2 to 12.7.4.

NOTE Acceptance or rejection of the batch is determined by the number of nonconforming units of each type and not necessarily by the number of nonconformities found.

For critical nonconforming units, an AQL of 0,65 % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this criterion, it shall be rejected. Any critical nonconforming units shall not also be counted as major nonconforming units or minor nonconforming units.

For major nonconforming units, an AQL of 2,5 % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this criterion, it shall be rejected. Any major nonconforming units shall not also be counted as minor nonconforming units.

For minor nonconforming units, an AQL of 10 % shall apply. If the batch fails to meet this criterion, it shall be rejected.

For pyrotechnic articles which are supplied in primary packs, the acceptance criteria in 12.7.2 to 12.7.4 shall be applied separately to the ‘other pyrotechnic articles’ and to the primary packs (see 12.3).

Any equivalent apparatus with the same accuracy or better may be used.

General

The test area shall be unobstructed, non-flammable and suitable for the accurate measurement of the required parameters.

The test sample should be placed in the centre of the test area, as shown in the labelled instruction or in the instructions for use.

Indoor

The test area shall be indoors.

The test area shall be in an enclosed space, which is capable of limiting the movement of air. A means of extracting fumes shall be provided where necessary.

Outdoor

The test area shall be an outdoor site. If applicable, provisions shall be made at the centre of the test area for partially burying into the ground.

If applicable, insert support pole in the centre of the test area.

Before starting the function test start the measurement of the wind speed with a wind speed meter (13.1.7) and continue measuring during the whole function test.

A means of measuring the wind speed at a height of 1,5 m above the ground shall be provided. If applicable, no performance testing shall be carried out if the wind speed exceeds 5,0 m/s.

Timing device, capable of being read to the nearest 0,1 s.

Calliper, flat faced vernier calliper with a resolution of 0,1 mm shall comply with EN ISO 13385‑1:2019 and EN ISO 13385‑2:2020.

Ruler, with a resolution of 1,0 mm.

Measuring tape, with a resolution of 10 mm.

Wind speed meter capable of measuring to an uncertainty of measurement of at least 0,5 m/s.

Balance, with a resolution of 0,1 g

Balance, with a resolution of 0,01 g

The temperature chamber(s) shall comply with the following specifications:

— up to 75 °C or 1,25 times the maximum use temperature of the test samples in degrees Celsius (if higher than 60 °C);

— when required, down to 10 °C lower than the minimum use temperature of the test samples;

— when required, capability of developing the highest level of humidity defined in the technical specifications of the article.

The tolerance on each of the above temperature requirements is ± 2,5 °C. The required test conditions may be delivered by means of a single temperature chamber or by means of two or more chambers, each capable of delivering one or more of the specified sets of conditions.

Sound level meter of class 1 shall be in accordance with EN 61672‑1:2013 with free-field microphone.

The apparatus shall provide a deceleration of 490 m/s² (−50/+100) m/s² (when measured at the centre of an unloaded platform) and the mechanical conditioning impulse duration (time elapsed from the starting of the machine's deceleration to the time in which the deceleration reaches its maximum value during each first shock pulse) shall be 2 ms ± 1 ms working at a frequency of 1 Hz ± 0,1 Hz.

An example of an apparatus is shown in Annex D.

The drop test apparatus shall comply with the following specifications:

— drop height 1,2 m;

— ground plate with a thickness greater than 10 mm of steel.

An example of an apparatus is shown in Annex E.

Goniometer, with a resolution of 1°.

The devices shall be capable of measuring horizontal and/or vertical angles:

— universal surveying instrument (USI);

— theodolite;

— electronic level or clinometers;

— video systems

— measuring grid.

Either of the following apparatus shall be used for the measurement of thrust:

— calibrated strain gauge;

— piezoelectric load cell.

The accuracy of these gauges shall be determined as a function of levels of thrusts to be measured and the tolerances given in the technical specifications of the article.

Abrasive sheet, large enough to permit striking of the ignition head, shall be in accordance with ISO 21948:2001, grit P240 in accordance with ISO 6344‑3:2021.

For the assessment of fragments as described in 13.2.15.2.2, the following equipment shall be used:

— sturdy square based frame: length: 1 m; width: 1 m; height: 0,5 m, or alternatively a sturdy cylindrical frame: radius 0,5 m, height 0,5 m;

— witness screen material: foils of polycarbonate with a thickness of 0,5 mm. The lateral surfaces of the sturdy base shall be totally covered with the witness screen material. The resulting box shall provide an opening at the bottom side, see Figures 2 and 3.

Key

a length: 1 m

b width: 1 m

c height: 0,5 m

Figure 2 — Square based frame covered with witness screen material

An alternative test set-up is given in Figure 3.

Key

r radius: 0,5 m

h height: 0,5 m

Figure 3 — Alternative test set-up: cylindrical frame covered with witness screen material

For the assessment of fragments as described in 13.2.15.2.3, the following equipment shall be used:

— witness screen material: specific foils of polycarbonate with a thickness of 0,5 mm;

— four frames: length: 2 m; width: 2 m.

Transparent sheet with the characters shown in Figure 4 printed on it in 1,8 mm text. Height of text determined by height of capital X in each case.

Figure 4 — Type size of print

High speed video camera with suitable frame rate and resolution adapted to the expected size and speed of the foreseen fragments.

Magnifying lens or electronic magnifier or microscope, with suitable power for the dimensions of the tested article or the details of its design that need to be checked.

Other test apparatus than those listed in 13.1.1 to 13.1.20 are:

— thermal flux measuring apparatus (e.g. sensor, infrared camera or equivalent);

— pressure gauge;

— ESD test apparatus (see 13.2.13.1.2.1);

— drop hammer for impact sensitivity testing (see 13.2.13.1.3.1);

— friction test apparatus (see 13.2.13.1.4.1)

Any equivalent method with the same sensitivity and the same uncertainty of measurement or better may be used if any justified for a better compliance to Clauses 7, 8 and/or 9.

Outer dimension of item

Using the ruler (see 13.1.5), measure and record the outer dimensions of the item(s).

Determination of calibre

Using the calliper (see 13.1.4), measure and record the calibre of the item(s).

Determination of gross mass

Using the balance (see 13.1.8.1), measure and record the gross mass of the item(s).

General

This test shall be carried out to verify that the tested item is as specified in the requirements of Clauses 6 and 7.

Conformity to drawings and part lists

The tested item shall be in accordance with the relevant manufacturing drawing. The drawing shall show any relevant component, with its dimensions, the mass and form (e.g. loose powder, granules, pellets, consolidated grains, etc.) of each pyrotechnic composition as well as the proportions of its constituents.

For pyrotechnic actuated dispersers that intentionally by design project or propel solid objects other than soft light-weight materials such as paper, cork, non-rigid foams, the drawing shall indicate the materials the objects are made of as well as the shape of these objects (including the presence of sharp edges, points or any characteristic that may be harmful at low kinetic energies).

Observe and record any nonconformity.

Pyrotechnic composition — Determination of net explosive content (type testing only)

Apparatus

Balance with a resolution of 0,01 g (see 13.1.8.2).

Balance with a resolution of 0,1 g (see 13.1.8.1).

Procedure – dismantling (if necessary)

Separate any pyrotechnic units and count them.

Table 6 — Uncertainty of measurement of weighing

Weigh the pyrotechnic composition not contained in pyrotechnic unit(s). Record the mass.

If applicable, remove the pyrotechnic composition from each pyrotechnic unit, and weigh each portion. Record the mass of each portion.

When safe dismantling is not possible, alternative procedures may be applied, such as (where appropriate) the weighing of articles before and after functioning (consider the elimination of possible remaining slags).

General

The following test method is applicable to articles which are fired vertically or within an angle of ± 15° from the vertical. In other cases, the test method shall be determined in accordance with the performances of the article.

Apparatus

Universal surveying instrument = USI (for instance theodolite) or comparable instruments (see 13.1.14).

Test area (see 13.1.2) for the launching of the article.

A mounting rack, which can be used to fix hand-held articles, might be needed.

Procedure

When determining effect, rising, or bursting height, firing shall take place only in the vertical direction, i.e. 90° ± 2° from the ground (test area). Measurements shall only take place with a wind velocity of less than 5 m/s (see 13.1.7).

Suitable apparatus for height measurement is any kind of regular device for measuring two angles at the same time (see 13.1.14), specifically the elevation angle (0° - 90°, 1° steps) and the horizontal angle (0° - 360°, 1° steps). The measurement of heights may be made in accordance with one of the methods described in Annex F as equivalent systems are allowed.

For articles that project pyrotechnic units beyond 30 m or contain pyrotechnic units that are self-propelling two measuring positions are required. For all other cases one measuring point is adequate. If two measuring points are necessary, vertical and horizontal angles shall be recorded. In case of one measuring point, at least the vertical angle shall be recorded.

In order to achieve a reasonable uncertainty of measurement the distance between firing point and measurement location, referred to as base length here, shall be adjusted to the measurement device. The vertical angle should be within the range of 30° to 60° (optimal 45°). If the monitoring position(s) is / are not in the same horizontal plane as the article, appropriate corrections shall be made in the calculation of heights. Generally, the measuring distance should be adapted to the article (height of ascent expected).

When using two positions for monitoring the height of ascent and angle of flight, they shall be positioned at a measured distance and, depending on the method of measurement and calculation of the heights, either at an angle of 90° to each other in relation to the article (See Annex F, Method 2) or a sufficient angle to ensure a good validity of the measurement (See Annex F, Method 1).

Apparatus

A sound level meter (see 13.1.10) and a measuring tape (see 13.1.6) are used.

Procedure

Set up the microphone of the sound level meter (see 13.1.10) in the test area (see 13.1.2) at the safe firing distance or at a known distance from the main effect point and at a height of 1 m.

Record the maximum C-weighted peak or maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure levels as measured by the sound level meter (see 13.1.10).

Apparatus

Timing device (see 13.1.3).

Procedure

Ignition time

Remove any protection of the ignition device and ignite it as specified in the instructions for use.

Apply the ignition source to the ignition device and at the same instant, start the timing device (see 13.1.3). Stop the timing device at the moment the functioning of the article appears. Record the ignition time in seconds.

Burning rate of composition

Determine the burning rate by using the timing device (see 13.1.3) measuring the burning time of the sample and divide the explosive content in gram by the measured time in seconds. Record the burning rate in g/s.

Apparatus

The following apparatus shall be used:

— shock apparatus (see 13.1.11);

— balance (see 13.1.8);

— timing device (see 13.1.3).

Procedure

The number of articles to be submitted to mechanical conditioning is described in 11.2.1, Table 2.

Place a sheet of paper on the platform of the mechanical shock apparatus and place the test samples on the sheet of paper. For articles that are supplied in primary packs, condition the appropriate number of complete, unopened packs. Secure the test samples or packs to the platform (e.g. by using straps, cushioning materials, cardboard). Run the machine for 1 h.

At the end of the conditioning period stop the machine and remove the test samples or primary packs. For samples which have been conditioned in primary packs, carefully open the packs, remove the samples and empty any loose material on to the sheet of paper. Separate any pyrotechnic composition from the loose material and weigh this pyrotechnic composition with the balance.

Record the mass of loose pyrotechnic composition.

If the pyrotechnic composition cannot be separated from the loose material, record the mass of the whole loose material.

If applicable, verify and record whether the test samples and primary pack exhibit any visible damage and the safety features are still in the safe position.

For the articles equipped with visible safety features, the safe position shall be verified after the mechanical conditioning by visual examination.

Apparatus

Drop-test apparatus (see 13.1.12).

General

The drop test is performed with the number of articles as described in 11.2.2, unless a “positive result” as specified in 8.4 is obtained.

If no “positive result” is observed, the articles might still be needed after the test for further testing as described in 8.4.

Procedure

The article shall be fixed to a suitable release mechanism (see Annex E) and shall be placed at a height of 1,2 m above the metal plate.

The article shall be positioned for the first test in such a way that it can fall along its main geometrical axis of symmetry freely. In a second test, a new article is positioned in a perpendicular orientation. Following test samples are positioned alternating between the two positions described previously.

Record any “positive result” as described in 8.4.

For the articles equipped with visible safety features, the safe position shall be verified after the mechanical impact test, by visual examination.

Apparatus

Temperature chamber(s) (see 13.1.9).

Procedure

Normal thermal conditioning

Place the items in a temperature chamber at 75 °C ± 2,5°C for 48 h or at 50 °C ± 2,5 °C for 28 days (within the primary pack if any). At the end of the thermal conditioning, verify and record any ignition, degradation or mass changes (emission of gas, cracks or expansion of compacted compositions, migration of chemicals, etc.).

High temperature conditioning

Place the items or primary packs (where applicable) in a temperature chamber at a temperature 1,25 times the maximum use temperature as defined in the technical specifications of the article for 48 h.

At the end of the thermal conditioning, verify and record any ignition, degradation or mass changes (emission of gas, cracks or expansion of compacted compositions, migration of chemicals, etc.).

Low temperature conditioning

Place the items or primary packs (where applicable) in a temperature chamber at a temperature 10 °C lower than the minimum use temperature as defined in the technical specifications of the article for 48 h.

At the end of the thermal conditioning, verify and record any ignition, degradation or mass changes (emission of gas, cracks or expansion of compacted compositions, migration of chemicals, etc.).

Verification of the 'use by' date

When 8.1 requires to demonstrate correct functioning of the article at the 'use by' date by extension of the thermal conditioning test, the procedure described in 13.2.9.2.1 or 13.2.9.2.2 shall be applied over a period of time that can be calculated by application of accelerated ageing method (See Annex G).

General

The test area (see 13.1.2.2 or 13.1.2.3) shall be chosen in accordance with the expected performance of the article. It shall be clean and free from debris, etc. from former tests.

The function tests shall be carried out in conditions identical or similar to conditions of intended use as mentioned on the label of the article. If such tests require the use of a specific tool or a testing equipment, it shall provide such conditions.

Apparatus

Where appropriate, the following apparatus shall be used for the function test:

— video high speed recording equipment (see 13.1.19);

— temperature chamber(s) (see 13.1.9);

— visual delineation of the hazard zone as specified in the instructions for use or calculated from performance data in accordance with specialist knowledge;

— witness screen(s) (see 13.1.17);

— thermal flux measuring apparatus (see 13.1.21);

— the ancillary device(s) and/or firing equipment which are specified in the instructions for use;

— other measuring equipment which is needed to check the performance of the tested articles and which can be indicated in the technical documentation provided with the article (e.g. sound level meter (see 13.1.10) for sound emitters).

Procedure

General

When fragments are to be observed at the firing point (see 6.2.3.7), 13.2.15 shall be applied in combination with the present procedure if the use of witness screen(s) is appropriate.

Place and ignite the test sample in accordance with the labelled instructions or the instructions for use. For articles that are fired vertically, the main effect height shall (where possible) be measured as described in 13.2.4.

Record the following observations:

— the nature of the principal effect and effect parameters (duration, spatial extension, ignition time (see 13.2.6.2.1));

— whether all pyrotechnic units function completely;

— the article's motion from the testing point and the distance of motion from the testing point;

— the generation of fragments from the article, if any, and for P1 articles, when 13.2.15 cannot be used, the distances and directions they are projected to;

— other performance parameters which are defined in the technical specifications of the article (e.g. sound pressure level (see 13.2.5) for sound emitters);

— the burning time and, where appropriate, the thermal flow rate during the maximum exposure time defined in the technical specifications of the article.

High temperature

When required the test sample shall be placed in a temperature chamber for 24 h at the maximum use temperature defined in the technical specifications of the article before the function test as described in 13.2.10.3.1.

The articles shall be removed from extreme temperature storage no more than 2 min before the test. This time interval may be increased for large and massive articles in accordance with acquired experience of testing bodies.

Low temperature

When required the test sample shall be placed in a temperature chamber for 24 h at the minimum use temperature defined in the technical specifications of the article before the function test as described in 13.2.10.3.1.

The articles shall be removed from extreme temperature storage no more than 2 min before the test. This time interval may be increased for large and massive articles in accordance with acquired experience of testing bodies.

Verification of safe position

For the articles equipped with integral safety features, the safe position shall be verified after each of the following tests: mechanical conditioning (see 13.2.7), mechanical impact test (see 13.2.8).

When the safety features are not visible, verification of the safe position require the tested items to be initiated by functioning the initiating pyrotechnic train before the safety features. This might require a specific preparation of the tested items depending on their means of ignition. Record any initiation of the main charge or the pyrotechnic train after the safety features.

Apparatus

A strain gauge or a piezoelectric load cell (see 13.1.15) and a timing device (see 13.1.3) are used.

A test bench consisting of a mobile part on which the article is attached and a stop perpendicular to the direction of motion of the mobile part. The strain gauge or piezoelectric load cell is placed between the stop and the mobile part.

Procedure

Testing of the rocket motor shall be performed to confirm that the rocket motor is within the tolerances defined in the technical specifications of the article.

Attach the article to the mobile part. Ignite the article. Record the peak thrust, the thrust impulse and burn time.

Apparatus

Abrasive sheet (see 13.1.16).

Procedure

In accordance with the instructions for use of the article, strike the friction head of the test sample on the rough surface of the abrasive sheet. Record whether the friction head ignites.

Sensitiveness of pyrotechnic composition

General

This test shall be applied when the user might have contact with a bare pyrotechnic composition or if the composition is likely to become exposed during normal conditions of handling or use. The purpose of the test is to identify the risk of accidental ignition of the bare pyrotechnic composition and to establish additional handling precautions if the risk of ESD initiation is identified.

Electrostatic discharge

Apparatus

The ESD generator, sample preparation and test cell assembly shall be tested as specified in Annex H.

Procedure

ESD test procedure is based on the testing of the granular bed of the pyrotechnic composition and consists of the two energy levels. The first energy level is selected to 150 mJ. If the positive reaction is obtained at the first energy level, the second energy level 45 mJ is used for the testing.

In the first test sequence, begin the test with initial voltage and capacity of 10 kV/50nF and based on the obtained energy, adjust the voltage and capacity until a spark energy between the range of [145-160] mJ is obtained. Discharges with energies exceeding the required energy level range are not considered valid.

Carrying a series of test shoots with an average spark gap energy 150 ± 8 mJ shall result in at least 25 valid shoots. One spark at a time is allowed to pass through the sample while observing the material reaction.

A reaction is observed when an explosion, crackling, sparkling, and/or flame occur. If neither a reaction nor a partial reaction is observed, the result of the test is “no reaction occurred”, and the ESD testing is terminated and considered successful. If the reaction or partial reaction is observed at 150 ± 8 mJ energy level, then further ESD tests shall be carried out at the next energy level.

Select the voltage and capacity to provide spark energy in the range of 40 ml to 50 mJ. Discharges with energy excessing the required energy level range are not considered valid.

One spark at a time is allowed to pass through the sample while observing the material reaction.

Carrying test series with an average spark-gap energy 45 ± 5 mJ shall result in at least 20 valid shoots.

A reaction is observed when there is an occurrence of explosions, crackling, sparkling, and/or flame. If neither a reaction nor a partial reaction is observed, the result of the test is “no reaction occurred” and the ESD testing is terminated at the 45 ± 5 mJ energy level and considered successful.

Should a reaction or partial reaction be observed during the first 20 shoots trial with the energy level within the range 45 ± 5 mJ, then a second series of another 20 shoots is carried out at the same energy level. No reaction or partial reaction is allowed during the second test series.

Should more than one positive or partial reaction be observed during the 40 trials, the sample failed to pass the ESD test and the ESD testing is terminated.

Impact

Apparatus

The general design of the impact test apparatus is illustrated by Figure 5.

Dimensions in millimetres

Key

1 steel cylinders

2 guide collar

3 locating ring

Figure 5 — Parts of the impact device and their dimensions

Procedure

Six tests shall be carried out on samples of the pyrotechnic composition in accordance with EN 13631‑4:2025.

These samples shall have either a volume of 40 mm³ of loose or paste pyrotechnic composition per test when the composition is used as a powder or a paste in the article or have the shape of a pellet of pressed pyrotechnic composition when the composition is used as a compacted solid in the article with the following recommended dimensions: diameter 4 mm, height 3 mm.

After stabilization at room temperature:

— place the pyrotechnic composition on the anvil of the test apparatus, then place the weight M (kg) at a distance h (m) above the upper surface of the pyrotechnic article, so that the product M × g × h (with g = 9,81 m/s²) is equal to 8 J;

— release the weight and record the result.

If during six consecutive tests with impact energy of 8 J no ignition or explosion occurred, the sample is regarded to have a sensitivity of more than 8 J.

Friction

Apparatus

The general principle to be applied to the friction test apparatus is illustrated by Figure 6.

Key

1 applied force F

2 porcelain pin

3 pyrotechnic composition

4 porcelain plate

5 motion of the plate

Figure 6 — Friction test apparatus

A sample of pyrotechnic composition is placed on a porcelain plate (25 mm (length) × 25 mm (width) × 5 mm (height), roughness 9 μm – 32 μm) which can be given a linear to-and-fro motion.

A porcelain pin (15 mm (length) × 10 mm (diameter), roughness 9 μm – 32 μm) exerts a force F on the sample of pyrotechnic composition.

Procedure

Six tests with a volume of 10 mm³ of the pyrotechnic composition per test shall be carried out in accordance with EN 13631‑3:2025.

Each test sample will be spread on the porcelain plate in the shape of a thin strip 15 mm long and 3 mm wide (leading to a thickness of 0,40 mm ± 0,05 mm).

After stabilization at room temperature:

— place the first sample on the porcelain plate, then apply the porcelain pin on it with an applied force of 80 N;

— start the motion of the plate and record the result.

If during six tests with a force of 80 N no ignition or explosion occurred the sample is regarded to have a friction sensitivity of more than 80 N.

External temperature of hand-held pyrotechnic articles

Apparatus

— 3 temperature sensors;

— data logger.

Procedure

After stabilization at room temperature, fix the temperature sensors:

— one at the upper end;

— one in the middle;

— and one at the lower end;

of the hand-held part of the pyrotechnic article.

After initiation record the temperature profile by using the data logger with a sampling frequency of at least 1 Hz.

Apparatus

— Calliper (see 13.1.4).

— Transparent type size sheet (see 13.1.18).

Procedure

Using the calliper or the transparent type size sheet, record whether the type sizes are correct and the printing is legible as specified in Clause 14.

Apparatus

Witness screen (see 13.1.17).

Procedure

General

The objective of this test is to check the appropriateness of the personal protective equipment that is specified in the instructions for use when the user is allowed to be present in the hazard zone for any justified reason, but at a larger distance than the safety firing distance.

If the safety firing distance is less than or equal to 0,5 m, method A shall only be used.

If the safety firing distance is greater than 0,5 m and unless otherwise specified in the technical documentation provided with the article, method B shall be used or, for small-sized articles, test method A may be used first and shall be followed by method B if a positive result from method A is observed.

Samples of the specified PPEs or equivalent pieces of their materials shall be placed over the surface of the witness screens facing the article. The size and the number of samples shall be determined in order to obtain an equally distributed repartition of the samples over the witness screen surface.

Test method A

The pyrotechnic article shall be placed on a hard surface (e.g. concrete plate). Centre the witness screen (see 13.1.17, Figure 2 or 3) - with the opening at the bottom side - above the pyrotechnic article so that the minimum distance from the pyrotechnic article to the lateral surfaces of the witness screen is about 0,5 m.

After ignition and functioning of the pyrotechnic article, the witness screen material shall be checked regarding visible damage caused by fragments. A penetration of the witness screen material (meaning that the fragment has fully passed through the witness screen) constitutes a “positive” result.

If no penetrations are detected, the test outcome constitutes a “negative” result.

Test method B

The pyrotechnic article shall be placed on a hard surface (e.g. concrete plate). Four separate frames tautly covered with the witness screen material shall be used and placed at the safe firing distance around the centred pyrotechnic article as given in Figure 7.

After ignition and functioning of the pyrotechnic article, the witness screen material shall be checked regarding visible damages caused by fragments. A penetration of the witness screen material (meaning that the fragment has fully passed through the witness screen) constitutes a “positive” result. If no penetrations are detected, the test outcome constitutes a “negative” result.

Key

a safe firing distance

b witness screens: length: 2 m; width: 2 m.

c pyrotechnic article

Figure 7 — Setup for additional tests if the safe firing distance is greater than 0,5 m

Apparatus

Means to provide constant water cover above the tested article (e.g. a bucket).

Procedure

The samples shall be visually inspected and any anomaly noted before subjecting them to the test.

The samples shall be immersed horizontally for at least 48 h under 0,5 m of water. After this test, the samples shall be subjected to the function test as described in 13.2.10, within 2 h after removal from the water.

General

The purpose of this test is to check that the tested articles:

— cannot detonate the booster specified in 13.2.17.2.1 (Method A); if this booster is initiated and detonates, the article has the capacity to detonate secondary explosives; or

— develop a mean equivalent shock energy and/or a mean equivalent bubble energy that are smaller than the same energies developed by 0,25 g of PETN (Method B); if not, the article has the capacity to detonate secondary explosives.

The test is carried out at 20°C ± 5°C.

Methods A and B are equivalent. Method A shall be chosen for articles that are not waterproof.

Test Method A

Apparatus

— The equipment and material needed for the test is composed of:

— (150 ± 10) mm × (150 ± 10) mm steel witness plates of (3,2 ± 0,2) mm thickness placed on sand soil/ground, serving to determine whether detonation occurs; the mechanical properties of the steel to be used shall be the following:

Cylindrical booster charge of at least 39 mm diameter, consisting of at least 70 g RDX/wax (95/5) with a density of (1 600 ± 50) kg/m³ containing no more than 0,5 % by weight of graphite. Its ends shall exhibit a flat surface.Test method

3 articles shall be tested under the conditions described here below.

Place the article at one end of the booster in such a way that it touches the flat surface. As a rule, the known or anticipated effect is orientated towards the centre of the booster. If these conditions cannot be kept (e.g. due to its shape), the article shall be placed in the best possible way as if it was intended to initiate the booster.

Then place the other end of the booster into contact with the steel plate in the anticipated direction of the possible detonation.

Fire the article.

After the initiation and functioning of the article, the result of the test is considered to be a detonation of the booster if a clean hole is punched through the steel plate. In the other case, no detonation has occurred although the explosive of the booster was dispersed or partly reacted.

Repeat the test on two other articles.

The test result is recorded in the following way:

— “capacity to detonate secondary explosives” is reported for the article, if at least one detonation of boosters occurred during the test;

— if not, the article has “no capacity to detonate secondary explosives”.

Test method B

General

This test is based on the principle that the detonation of an explosive charge under water generates a spherical shock-wave and a volume of gas, which expands and then collapses as the bubble rises through the water. The shock-wave and the volume of gas bear a finite relationship to the energy released. Thus, by measuring:

— the shock-wave pressure; and

— the time interval between the shock-wave pressure peak and the first collapse of the gas bubble,

and calculating the parameters proportional to:

— equivalent shock energy; and

— equivalent bubble energy;

the energy output of the test detonators can be compared with the energy output of the reference detonator to which equivalence is claimed in the technical documentation provided with the article.

The water temperature shall not vary by more than ± 2 °C, and the atmospheric pressure shall not vary by more than ± 5 kPa during the test. The amount of water in the tank and the type of sensor shall not vary during the test.

Apparatus

The equipment and material needed for the test is composed of:

— blasting tank (water tank or large water outdoor facility), with a volume of at least 500 l and with minimum dimensions to immerse the positioning system with the attached item to be tested and the pressure sensor so that a distance between the item to be tested and any other object is ≥ 200 mm. It shall be constructed in such a way that shock-wave reflections from the walls are avoided, for example, in the case of a water tank (as shown in Figure 8), by lining the walls with plastic polyurethane foam;

— positioning system, for the pressure sensor and item to be tested, made from a material that is form-stable when immersed into water for the duration of the test. It shall allow the immersion of the item to be tested and the pressure sensor to water depth of (400 ± 5) mm as measured from the lowest points of the item to be tested as shown in Figure 8. It shall keep the item to be tested and the pressure sensor at a horizontal distance of (400 ± 5) mm measured between their centrelines (see Figure 8). The distance between the centre of the sensor and the item shall be (400 + 5) mm. The distance between any wall and the item shall be at least 200 mm;

— pressure sensor capable of being used under water with a rise time ≤ 2 μs. It shall be capable of measuring pressures up to 20 MPa;

— amplifier, with suitable gain and facility to connect the pressure sensors and the oscilloscope;

— storage oscilloscope, with minimum 10 MHz sampling frequency;

— computer, with software for calculation of results;

— thermometer, readable to the nearest 1 °C to measure the water temperature;

— barometer, readable to the nearest 1 hPa to measure the atmospheric pressure.

Dimensions in millimetres

Key

1 positioning arrangement

2 water tank

3 item to be tested

4 pressure sensor

5 non-reflecting, energy-absorbing material

Figure 8 — Example of water tank with positioning system for sensor and item to be tested

Test method

5 articles shall be tested under the conditions described here below.

For calibration purposes and comparison, 5 reference detonators Type 1 (0,25 g PETN) as given in EN 13763‑1:2025, Annex A shall be tested at first for a test series under the same conditions and measurements:

— immerge the item to be tested and fix it vertically at (400 ± 5) mm from the pressure sensor and at least 200 mm from the wall of the tank;

— fire the item in accordance with the instructions for use;

— record the shock-wave pressure and the time interval between the shock-wave pressure peak and the first collapse of the gas bubble;

— calculate the equivalent shock energy and the equivalent bubble energy as described in 13.2.17.3.4.

— repeat the test with the other four articles.

At the end of the tests, calculate the mean of the equivalent shock energies and the equivalent bubble energies of the five tests; calculate also the mean of the equivalent shock energies and the equivalent bubble energies of the five standard 0,25 g PETN detonators.

The test result is recorded in the following way:

— “capacity to detonate secondary explosives” is reported for the article, if the mean of the equivalent shock energies and the equivalent bubble energies of the five tests exceeds the mean of the equivalent shock energies and the equivalent bubble energies of the five standard 0,25 g PETN detonators;

— if not, the article has “no capacity to detonate secondary explosives”.

Calculation of results

Equivalent shock energy:

— By exploiting the output voltage from the pressure sensor, the computer and software calculates the integral under the squared pressure/time curve, from which the equivalent shock energy E_s in Pa² s can be derived, using the general equation:

(1)

where

p is the measured pressure, in pascals

θ is the time, in seconds, at which the sensor output has decreased to P_max/e, where P_max is the maximum measured pressure and e is the base of natural logarithms.

— Calculate the individual values and mean values for the tested items and for the standard 0,25 g PETN detonators.

Equivalent bubble energy:

— The bubble energy in s³ can be calculated using the equation given below, based on the time interval between the shock-wave pressure peak and the first collapse of the gas bubble created from the detonation gases:

(2)

where

is the bubble period, in seconds, between the shock-wave pressure peak and the first collapse of the gas bubble produced by the detonation gases.

— Calculate the individual values and mean values for the tested items and for the standard 0,25 g PETN detonators.

The visual examination shall be done either by the naked eye or using magnifying equipment (see 13.1.20). Record any anomalies.

Special storage conditions (if any) are displayed on the packaging.

Articles shall be marked with the information specified in 14.2 to 14.11.

When measured as described in 13.2.14 and examined as specified in 13.2.18 the labelling requirements shall conform to the requirements of 14.2 to 14.11.

The address of the manufacturer shall indicate a single point at which the manufacturer can be contacted.

If the manufacturer is not established in the European Union, the labelling shall include the names, registered trade names or registered trademarks of the manufacturer and of the importer and the postal addresses at which they can be contacted.

The generic type of the article and the subtype (where applicable) shall be marked in upper case as described in 3.3 and 3.4.

If a trade name is used in addition to the subtype or generic type, it shall not conflict with the principal effects of the relevant type of article or with the name of another type of article.

If the trade name fully reflects the subtype or the generic type, they need not be repeated. The trade name may give additional information.

EXAMPLE HAND HELD ROCKET white.

If articles exhibit effects, in addition to the first principal effect, that might be unexpected by users, the sequence of effects shall be indicated for safety reasons: e.g. ‘2 x SHOT DISTRESS SIGNAL’.

The registration number for product traceability shall be marked as specified in the example below:

XXXX - YY - ZZZZ..

where

XXXX refers to the identification number of the notified body issuing the EU-type examination certificate or the certificate of conformity;

YY refers to the article category in abbreviated format (P1 or P2); and

ZZZZ... is a processing number used by the notified body issuing the EU-type examination certificate.

NOTE Directive 2013/29/EU defines marking requirements.

Labelling of selection packs shall display the category of the contents. If a selection pack contains P1 and P2 articles, then it shall be marked P2.

The label shall include information about the relevant category, e.g.: “Cat. P1” or “Category P1”.

The CE marking shall be followed by the identification number of the Notified Body responsible for monitoring the quality system or checking conformity to type or checking conformity based on unit verification.

NOTE Attention is drawn to Regulation No 765/2008 which defines CE marking.

The product, batch or serial number at the minimum shall be displayed on the label of the article.

The specific intended purpose shall be stated on the label (e.g. ‘To be used for defence against dog attacks”) and shall not only describe the main effect of the types.

For sound emitters, flares and flash devices, the sentence “Not to be used for entertainment purposes or stage use” shall be indicated on the label.

The minimum age limits applicable in the country in which the article is offered for retail sale shall be clearly stated on the label.

The minimum age limit of 18 years applies for P1 articles, unless the individual Member State has modified these age limits in.

NOTE Attention is drawn to Directive 2013/29/EU, Article 7 (2) which contains provisions for age limit.

Instructions for use shall be supplied with the article, including information relating to any special ancillary equipment necessary for the safe use of the article. Safety information shall be emphasized by use of a heading, or bold type, or use of graphical symbols given in ISO 3864‑1:2011, ISO 7000:2019 and/or EN ISO 7010:2020. If the article or primary pack is not labelled with the required information then the article or primary pack shall be labelled with the sentence “User must read and follow the instructions enclosed given by the manufacturer” or equivalent wording, emphasized by use of a heading, or bold type, or similar.

In addition to the requirements of 14.6 and 14.8, instructions for use shall, where applicable, include the following information:

a) description and operating instructions for safe functioning, including specification of the method of ignition;

b) product data (type of effect, effect time, direction of ejection, sound pressure level, etc.) shall be clearly displayed on the article or given in the instructions for use;

c) specification of the ancillary equipment needed and corresponding operating instructions for safe functioning of the pyrotechnic article;

d) instructions for safe handling;

e) for P1 articles, information whether the C-weighted sound pressure level is higher than 135 dB or the maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure level (L_AImax) exceeds 115 dB at the declared safety distance; if the C-weighted sound pressure level is higher than 135 dB or the maximum A-weighted impulse sound pressure level (L_AImax) exceeds 115 dB, a corresponding warning shall be given on the label or in the instructions for use. This criterion is not applicable to life saving devices and fire extinguishers or when the intrinsic noise level of the article is effectively damped when used normally (e.g. mole killing devices);

f) information about the presence of projected debris and fragments and about the corresponding safety instructions;

g) storage conditions (e.g. storage temperature) and instructions for safe handling and storage;

h) instructions for safe disposal including the mention of the competent body to which the articles should be returned;

i) personal protective equipment (PPE) if any required during normal use, including references to European or other recognized national and international standards applicable to Personal protective equipment, or other protective measures required during the safe handling and use of the article;

j) the instructions for use shall contain the following sentence: “Don’t fire the article if you cannot clearly control the absence of people within the safe firing distance and/or the hazard zone!” or equivalent wording;

k) for P2 articles, information about the risk persons might be exposed to inside the hazard zone shall be given in the instructions for use, e.g. where appropriate:

1) noise level at either the hazard zone boundary or at a specified distance from the article under specified conditions;

2) thermal flux at either the hazard zone boundary or at a specified distance from the article under specified conditions;

3) the likely length of any projected flames or radius of any fireball;

4) the form (quantity) and likely distribution within the hazard zone of any expected falling debris and or projected fragments;

5) whether any of the expected falling debris or projected fragments present a fire or other thermal hazard;

6) the mass of any expected falling debris and/or any projected fragments;

7) the expected energies of any expected falling debris and / or any projected fragments;

l) for smoke/aerosols generators, even when the article is used outdoor, easily understandable and practicable instructions for use shall point out the right way of firing the article in order not to expose the user and surrounding people to possible hazards linked to the chemical and physical nature of the smoke/aerosol (e.g. pesticides). When used inside, it shall clearly be indicated how to proceed after firing to eliminate remaining chemicals in order to avoid any dangerous exposure to them (compulsory for pesticides);

m) In case the sound emitter or and flash device is equipped with friction head, the labelling shall require the usage of protective gloves.

Where applicable, a safe firing distance (see 6.2.2.5.2) shall be displayed on the label and the dimensions of the hazard zone (see 6.2.2.5.3) shall be given in the instructions for use.

For P1 articles, the safe firing distance and the dimensions of the hazard zone shall be determined in accordance with the criteria of 6.2. The means of controlling or maintaining the safe firing distance and/or the hazard zone should either be advised or supplied in the instructions for use.

For P2 articles, when a single value of the safe firing distance cannot be given or a hazard zone cannot be described, necessary data to calculate or determine the safe firing distances and/or the hazard zone shall be displayed on the label and/or calculation methods shall be supplied in the instructions for use. In that case, the following information shall be printed on the label: “Minimum safety distance to be determined by user using supplied product data” and “Article to be used in accordance with written instructions and national regulations”.

For pyrotechnic actuated dispersers of category P1 that intentionally by design project or propel solid objects other than soft light-weight materials such as paper, cork, non-rigid foams, the controlled area that prevents through design or size the intentionally projected or propelled objects from leaving the area shall be described in the instructions for use. The articles or their primary packs shall be marked with the following sentences:

— Only for use within supervised controlled activity areas.

— Before use ensure all persons within the controlled area are wearing the correct personal protective equipment as required by the activity being undertaken.

All values shall be displayed in the International System of units.

The abbreviation “NEC” may be used for the labelling.

When the method of ignition is not clearly visible or when it is not possible to print it on the label, it shall be indicated by simple, complete and clear instructions in the instructions for use.

When the initiation system includes a delay element, the expected duration of that delay shall be displayed on the label.

When the article is equipped with a manually actuated safe/arm device, specific labelling shall be provided for the user to identify whether the article is in the safe or armed position or not.

Where appropriate, the direction of ejection, effect, projection of hot gases, flames, etc. shall be clearly displayed on the article or in the instructions for use.

When a ‘use by’ date is necessary to inform the user of the time limit beyond which the pyrotechnic article might not function properly, it shall be displayed on the label.

In that case, the ‘use by’ date shall be clearly printed as specified in the example below:

MM/YYYY or MM/YY

where

MM is the month (2 digits, e.g. 07) and YYYY or YY is the year (4 or 2 digits, e.g. “2020” or “20”).

Labelling of articles shall be printed on a contrasting background colour. Printing errors that are not misleading shall not be classified as faults.

When measured as described in 13.2.14, the type sizes shall be such that the height of the character ‘X’ (in upper case) is at least 1,8 mm.

The minimum height of the marking shall be 5 mm.

If the other pyrotechnic article does not provide enough space for the information, as required by 14.2 to 14.12, as a minimum the marking and where possible the identification number of the notified body responsible for monitoring the quality system or checking conformity to type shall be given on the article.

Whenever there is still enough space, the labelling shall include all or partially in the following priority order: the registration number of article, the type and the name.

If the other pyrotechnic article does not provide enough space for all the information required by this document, this information shall be provided on the primary pack. Where the information printed on this primary pack might be affected by opening the pack, it shall be designed so as to prevent loss of information when the label is broken. Where information necessary for the safe use, etc. of an article is provided on a primary pack label, the article shall only be supplied in its primary pack. The primary pack shall be marked with the statement: “Must be supplied as packaged”. This statement shall appear adjacent to the type name or category. The requirements for printing specified in 14.12 shall apply to this marking.

1. 
   (normative)
   
   Flow chart

a) Flow chart (1 of 7)

b) Flow chart (2 of 7)

c) Flow chart (3 of 7)

d) Flow chart (4 of 7)

e) Flow chart (5 of 7)

f) Flow chart (6 of 7)

g) Flow chart (7 of 7)

Key

(*) Personal Protective Equipment

Figure A.1 — Flow chart

1. 
   (normative)
   
   Value of the drag coefficient

Table B.1 — Value of the drag coefficient

1. 
   (normative)
   
   Calculation of the thermal dose
   1. Method of calculation

For categorization, the calculation of the mean thermal flux or the thermal dose the user is submitted to at the safe firing distance (see 6.2.3.4) is necessary.

Thermal flux is calculated by Formula (C.1):

(C.1)

Thermal dose is calculated by Formula (C.2):

(C.2)

where

Φ_m is the mean value of the “density of heat flow rate” measured during exposure time at the safe firing distance (kW/m²);

D is the thermal dose effect at the safe firing distance (kW/m²)^4/3.s;

t_exp is the exposure time (seconds);

Φ(t) is the “density of heat flow rate” measured during exposure time (kW/m²).

When Φ(t) is measured by means of a thermal flux measuring apparatus (13.1.21), Φ_m or D can be directly calculated from processing the recorded signal using an electronic integrator.

An alternative to such measurement consists in directly calculating Φ_m or D from construction and performance characteristics of the article as explained below.

The density of heat flow rate is given by the following formula:

(C.3)

as a function of:

When q(t) is constant or can be approximated by a constant law of time, Formula (C.3) can be written as follows:

(C.4)

where

N_EC is the net explosive content (g) of the pyrotechnic composition creating the thermal effect;

t_c is the effect time (s) of the pyrotechnic composition creating the thermal effect.

then:

(C.5)

and:

(C.6)

where

t_exp is the exposure time (s).

When q(t) is not constant or cannot be approximated by a constant law of time, similar formulae can be obtained mathematically. When no analytical solution can be found, Φ_m or D can be calculated from Formula (C.1) and Formula (C.2) on a personal computer by using a mathematical solver.

• 1. Typical values of the enthalpy of combustion

H can be determined by calorimetric analysis.

For pyrotechnical compositions, the average value of H is about 4 KJ/g.

Some products such as energetic propellants have H values about 6 KJ/g.

When calorimetric values of H are not available and in order to have a good safety margin, it is recommended to use an average value of 5 KJ/g.

• 1. Radiation part of the thermal flux

Only the radiation effect is considered as long as the user shall not have direct contact with the flame and combustion products generated by the combustion of the pyrotechnic compositions of the article.

The ratio between the global energy of the product and the radiation effect is admitted to be about 0,4.

• 1. Alternative criterion when q(t) is constant or can be approximated by a constant law of time

— When the exposure time t_exp is lower than or equal to 120 s the article is assigned to category P2 if the thermal dose D complies with the following criterion:

(C.7)

Using the above recommended values of β and H, Formula (C.6) and Formula (C.7) lead to the following criterion:

with N_EC in grams, R in metres, t_exp and t_c in seconds.

when the exposure time t_exp is greater than 120 s:

(C.8)

Using the above recommended values of β and H, Formula (C.5) and Formula (C.8) leads to the following criterion:

N_EC > 6,28 · R^{2 .} t_c

with N_EC in grams, R in metres and t_c in seconds.

EXAMPLE A hand-held flare with an effect time of 8 min which, in accordance with its technical specification, is to be held with outstretched arm (R = 0,7 m) during an exposure time of 60 s maximum, will be categorized as P1 if the net explosive content creating the principal effect is lower than:

N_EC ≤ 2 570 g

If the same hand-held flare is to be held during more than 2 min, its N_EC limit will be:

N_EC ≤ 1 470 g

1. 
   (informative)
   
   Mechanical conditioning (Shock apparatus)

The shock apparatus, illustrated in the following Figures D.1, D.2, and D.3, comprises the following components:

a) a flat horizontal platform made of steel, 800 mm × 600 mm, 2 mm to 3 mm thick, with a 3 mm thick rim having a height of 15 mm; the platform is reinforced with eight steel ribs, 5 mm thick with a height of 30 mm, which are welded to the underside and run from the centre to each of the four corners and to the middle of each edge;

b) a 20 mm thick plate of fibreboard, firmly attached to the platform by screws;

c) a cylindrical steel boss, diameter 125 mm and height 35 mm, located under the centre of the platform;

d) a 284 mm long shaft, with diameter of 20 mm, fixed to the centre of the boss;

e) a restraining peg, to prevent the platform from rotating; the mass of the platform assembly (items a) to e)) shall be 23 kg ± 1 kg;

f) an annular, elastomer pressure spring, with a Shore A hardness, when determined as given in EN ISO 868 [3], of 68, outside diameter 125 mm, inside diameter 27 mm and height 32 mm, on which the cylindrical boss will rest;

g) a shallow steel cylinder (steel cup), inside diameter 126 mm, wall thickness 5 mm, outside height 30 mm, with a base 8 mm thick which has a 25 mm diameter hole drilled through the centre, to contain the elastomer spring;

h) a supporting steel cylinder, outside diameter 80 mm, inside diameter 60,1 mm and height 92,4 mm, to which the shallow cylinder is screwed;

i) a PVC liner, outside diameter 60 mm, inside diameter 20,2 mm and height 92,4 mm, located inside the supporting cylinder and attached by a screw;

j) a steel mounting plate, thickness 12 mm with a 25 mm hole drills through the centre, to which the supporting steel cylinder is screwed;

k) a steel base plate, thickness 12 mm;

l) four supporting pillars, height 260 mm and diameter 32 mm, screwed to the mounting plate and to the base plate;

m) a framework to support the based plate so that the complete assembly is at a convenient height;

n) an attachment to the shaft, allowing adjustment to the overall length, fitted with a cam wheel, outside diameter 30,0 mm, with a contact surface 8,0 mm wide;

o) a cylindrical cam, outside diameter 120 mm, inside diameter 100 mm, wall thickness 10 mm, with a “vertical drop” of 50,0 mm between the high point and the low point (see Figure D.3); differently shaped cams with the same drop height may be used alternatively;

p) a collar, outside diameter 50 mm, height 4,0 mm;

q) an electric motor and suitable gearing, to rotate the cam at a rotational frequency of 1 Hz;

r) cellular rubber sheet, 100 mm thick. The material used shall have an apparent density when determined as given in EN ISO 845 [4], of 35 kg/m³ and an indention hardness check, when determined as given in EN ISO 2439 [5] of 215 N.

Key

1 restraining peg

2 platform

3 boss

4 pressure spring

5 cup

6 supporting cylinder

7 PVC liner

8 mounting plate

9 shaft

10 supporting pillar

Figure D.1 — Detail of top section of mechanical shock apparatus

Key

1 mounting plate

2 supporting pillar

3 base plate

Figure D.2 — General assembly of mechanical shock apparatus

Key

1 cam

2 collar

3 cam wheel

Figure D.3 — Detail of shaft attachment and cam assembly of mechanical shock apparatus

1. 
   (informative)
   
   Drop test (Mechanical impact test)

An example of typical apparatus which may be used is illustrated in Figure E.1 (other equivalent technical solutions may be used).

Key

1 metal plate

2 movable safety plate

3 article to be tested

4 release device

5 metallic frame

Figure E.1 — Overview of impact test apparatus

The metal plate should be placed on a hard soil, e.g. a concrete slab, and its thickness should be greater than 10 mm of steel.

The release device shall neither deliver an initial linear and/or rotation velocity to the article nor modify its fall from the vertical.

A video recording is useful to check whether the fall of the article is correct and in order to get full knowledge of the behaviour of the article during and after its contact with the metal plate.

1. 
   (informative)
   
   Procedures for calculation of heights

The following methods may be used for the calculation of heights:

a) Method 1

This procedure allows performing measurements with equipment that is not located at the same height as the firing point and at 90° to each other.

Firing takes place only in vertical direction (90° from the horizontal plane at the place of firing) and measurements should only take place with a wind velocity of less than 5 m/s.

Measurement requires two locations – T₁ and T₂ – which should be preferably, but not necessarily, located at 90° to each other with respect to the firing point (see Figure F.1).

Suitable equipment for height measurement is any kind of regular device for measuring two angles at the same time, specifically the elevation angles α₁ and α₂ (0 - 90°, 1° steps) and the azimuth angles β₁ and β₂ (0 - 180°, 1° steps) of the bursting point B (or maximum point of effect) of the pyrotechnic article seen from T₁ and T₂.

Differences in height of the measurement locations T₁ and T₂ shall be considered, corresponding to h₁ and h₂ in Figure F.1.

The effect height (or rising height) H is determined from the angles α₁ and α₂, β₁ and β₂, and the horizontal distance D_1,2 between T₁ and T₂ through the following formulae:

(F.1)

(F.2)

and

(F.3)

With these formulae it is not necessary to know the distances of the two measurement locations T₁ and T₂ from the firing point O, or their angle to each other from this point.

Key

O firing point

T₁ first measurement location

T₂ second measurement location

P₀ horizontal plane passing through the firing point O

P₁ horizontal plane passing through the measurement location T₁

P₂ horizontal plane passing through the measurement location T₂

h₁, h₂ heights of the measurement locations T₁ and T₂ from plane P₀ respectively, measured and recorded by the suitable equipment located at points T₁ and T₂

O’ vertical projection of the bursting point B (or maximum point of effect) of the pyrotechnic article on plane P₀

D_1,2 horizontal distance between T₁ and T₂

α₁, α₂ elevation angles of the bursting point B (or maximum point of effect) of the pyrotechnic article measured and recorded by the suitable equipment located at T₁ and T₂

β₁, β₂ azimuth angles of the bursting point B (or maximum point of effect) of the pyrotechnic article measured and recorded by the suitable equipment located at T₁ and T₂

H effect height to be calculated from D_1,2, h₁ and h₂, α₁ and α₂, β₁ and β₂

Figure F.1 — Measurement set-up for aerial effects

The vertical angle should not exceed 60°; optimal would be angles between 40° and 50°.

Measurement of the horizontal distance D_1,2 should take place with an uncertainty of measurement of at least ± 1 % of the distance.

Method 2

Suitable equipment for height measurement is any kind of regular device for measuring two angles at the same time, specifically the vertical angle (0 - 90°, 1° steps) and the horizontal angle (0 - 360°, 1° steps).

Measurement requires two locations which should be preferably located at 90° to each other with respect to the firing point (see Figure F.2).

When using a USI (see 13.1.10) both angles, the vertical and the horizontal angle, shall be measured. Differences in height of the measurement locations shall be considered.

Key

h₁, h₂ calculated heights from vertical planes

b horizontal distance between the measuring points and the firing point

α₁, α₂ measured elevation angles of the bursting point (or maximum point of effect)

β₁, β₂ measured azimuth angles of the bursting point (or maximum point of effect).

vertical planes

β ^b horizontal plane

Figure F.2 — Measurement set-up for aerial effects

In the case of a vertical trajectory of the article (i.e. the horizontal angles are less than ± 2°) the effect height and rising height, h is determined from the vertical angles α₁ and α₂ and the base length b (distance between firing point and measurement location) through the following formula:

(F.4)

With this formula it is possible to calculate the heights independently for each measurement location, this making it possible to use different base lengths. Both values are averaged.

For a non-vertical trajectory the actual height is calculated as specified in the following formulae:

(F.5)

and

(F.6)

The angles β₁ and β₂ are the horizontal angles.

The effect height can be calculated as follows:

(F.7)

In order to achieve a reasonable uncertainty of measurement the distance between firing point and measurement location, referred to as base length here, shall be adjusted to the measurement device. The vertical angle should not exceed 60°; optimal would be having angles between 40° and 50°. For an expected rising height of 300 m the base length of at least 175 m is chosen, for example.

Measurement of the base length should take place with an uncertainty of measurement of at least ± 1 % of the distance.

1. 
   (informative)
   
   Determination of the duration of accelerated ageing test to demonstrate the correct functioning at the 'use by' date

Where thermal conditioning described in 13.2.9.2 leads to successful functioning test, articles which are intended for use after prolonged storage at a specified temperature T_LS ± 5,0 °C or which are kept for more than two days at or above a maximum use temperature T_UM is to be subject to additional thermal conditioning as follows:

Store the articles for N days at a temperature of 75 °C ± 2,5 °C or 1,25 times the maximum use temperature ± 2,5°C in the climatic chamber and then for at least one day at 20 °C ± 5,0 °C before testing as described in 13.2.10.

When the article has been designed or is described as being suitable for use in humid conditions, the climatic chamber is maintained at 95 % relative humidity (RH).

N (in days) is calculated by use of the following formula:

where

H_LS specified life span in storage (in years, can be equal to 0);

H_LU specified life span at the maximum use temperature (in months, can be equal to 0);

T_LS long storage temperature (in °C);

T_UM maximum use temperature (in °C); and

, are coefficients that can be calculated from the following Figures G.1 and G.2.

NOTE In the case where the above formula gives values greater than 90 days, the temperature of the ageing test would better be increased as much as it is affordable by the design and pyrotechnic compositions of the article.

EXAMPLE 1 For T_LS = 20 °C and T_UM = 50 °C, the thermal conditioning test is performed at 75 °C and Figures G.1 and G.2 give:

K₁ = 0,007 and K₂ = 0,083.

Then, to demonstrate a life span in storage of 9 years and a life span at the maximum use temperature of 12 months, the thermal conditioning test is to be performed during:

N = 9 × 365,25 × 0,007 + 12 × 30 × 0,083 = 23,01 + 29,88 = 53 d

EXAMPLE 2 For T_LS = 20°C and T_UM = 90°C, the thermal conditioning test is performed at 112,5°C and Figures G.1 and G.2 give:

K₁ = 0,000 17 and K₂ = 0,107.

Then, to demonstrate a life span in storage of 9 years and a life span at the maximum use temperature of 12 months, the thermal conditioning test is to be performed during:

N = 9 × 365,25 × 0,000 17 + 12 × 30 × 0,107 = 0,55 + 38,52 = 39 d

Figure G.1 — Coefficient K1

Figure G.2 — Coefficient K2

1. 
   (normative)
   
   Apparatus for the testing of sensitiveness of the pyrotechnic composition to electrostatic discharge
   1. Electrostatic energy supply

The electrostatic discharge is simulated by the ESD generator, which test circuit is illustrated in Figure H.1.

Key

1 high voltage power supply

2 test cell with the sample

3 high voltage spherical switch

4 high voltage probe

5 voltage probe

Figure H.1 — ESD generator

The ESD generator is made up mainly of capacitors and series resistances:

— high voltage power supply capable of applying 10 kV continuous voltage with precision of max. 2 % FSO;

— C₁ firing capacitor with working capacitance within the range 1 – 300 nF ± 10 %;

— R_D high voltage resistor connected in series with the firing capacitor R_D = 10 kΩ ± 5 %;

— R_CVR current viewing resistor with nominal value R_CVR = 10 Ω ± 5 % placed in the grounding part of the discharge circuit;

— high voltage probe with a calibrated high input impedance with division ratio 1000:1 ± 1 % @ 1M and having a bandwidth ≥ 20 MHz;

— voltage probe with calibrated input impedance with division ratio 10:1 ± 1 % @ 1M and having bandwidth < 100 MHz.

• 1. Test cell assembly

The tested composition is placed in the test cell assembly consisting of two metal electrodes equipped with plastic and rubber tubing. The plastic tubing defines the constant volume of the tested substance and acts as a constant confinement during the test. The test assembly is set to maintain a 1 ± 0,1 mm spark gap between the steel electrodes and the sample is in direct contact with the metal electrodes. The test cell assembly is illustrated in Figure H.2.

Key

1 anode electrode (positive): steel pin with flat bottom, made from 1.4034 steel (AISI420), 1,6 ± 0,1 mm in diameter

2 anode protection tube: NBR rubber tube 5 ± 0,2 mm outer diameter, 1 ± 0,2 internal diameter

3 tested substance

4 sample holder: PVC tube 3,6 ± 0,2 mm internal diameter, 0,2 + 0,1mm wall thickness

5 cathode electrode (negative): steel pin having 3,7 ± 0,1 mm diameter, made of 1.4301 stainless steel (AISI 304)

Figure H.2 — Test cell assembly

• 1. Preparation of the test sample

Sampling shall be conducted carefully to ensure that the sample to be tested is representative with respect to the particle size distribution and chemical composition. The sample is volumetrically loaded into the test cavity of the test cell assembly, which is defined by the diameter of the cathode pin (5) and the height of the sample holder (4) which is protruding just 1 mm above the surface of the cathode pin.

Pressed, cast, or otherwise agglomerated substances shall be pulverized and sifted. Material passed through a sieve in accordance with ISO 565:1990, Clause 5, having an aperture size of 0,9 mm shall be used for the test.

• 1. Conditioning of the test sample and test conditions

The ESD test shall be carried out at temperature (20 ± 5) °C and relative humidity not greater than (55 ± 10) %. The test sample shall be conditioned for 24 h prior to the test at the same conditions for the test.

• 1. Evaluation of spark gap energy

The energy of the spark between the electrodes is determined by integrating the power-time curve. The power-time curve is obtained as a product of the measured current-time and voltage-time of oscilloscope traces. The energy of the spark is calculated by the following equation:

where

U_A is the voltage measured by high voltage probe at the spark gap anode electrode;

U_CVR is the voltage measured by the voltage probe at the current viewing resistor;

t₀ is the time at which the current begins to pass through the spark gap;

t₁ is the time at which there is no current passing through the spark gap.

NOTE When the 10:1 voltage divider is used for the voltage reading at the R_CVR resistor, by setting the 1:1 division ratio for the oscilloscope channel, then the U_CVR voltage can be directly used for calculation and there is no need to convert U_CVR voltage to current.

• 1. Reporting of results

If no reaction is observed during the 25 shoots test with an average energy 150 ± 8 mJ than the reported result is: passed the ESD test, no further safety precautions are needed for handling.

If a reaction or a partial reaction is observed during the 40 shoots trials with an average energy 45 ± 5 mJ, then the energy at which the ignition or partial reaction occurred is reported as MIE level additionally to the test result: ´Passed ESD test, safety precautions are needed for handling´.

If there are more than one ignition or partial reaction during the test series at 45 ± 5 mJ energy level, then the test is reported as: failed to pass the ESD test.

• 1. Test report

In the test report, the following information is given:

a) reference to this document;

b) identification of the tested product and pyrotechnic composition;

c) description of the form of the tested composition, e.g. fine powder, granules, chunks, etc;

d) individual test results, such as: ‘no reaction’, ‘partial reaction’ or ‘reaction’;

e) final test judgement, as:

— ´Passed ESD test, no further safety precaution is needed for handling´;

— ´Passed the ESD test, safety precautions are needed for handling´;

— ´Failed to pass the ESD test´;

f) temperature and relative humidity during testing;

g) voltage and capacity used for testing energy levels.

1. 
   (informative)
   
   Relationship between this European Standard and the essential safety requirements of Directive 2013/29/EU aimed to be covered

This European Standard has been prepared under a Commission’s standardization request M/583 “Standardization mandate assigned to CEN concerning pyrotechnic articles” to provide one voluntary means of conforming to essential safety requirements of Directive 2013/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on the harmonization of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of pyrotechnic articles (recast).

Once this standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union under that Directive 2013/29/EU, compliance with the normative clauses of this standard given in Table ZA.1 confers, within the limits of the scope of this standard, a presumption of conformity with the corresponding essential safety requirements of that Directive 2013/29/EU, and associated EFTA regulations.

Table ZA.1 — Correspondence between this European Standard and Directive 2013/29/EU

WARNING 1 — Presumption of conformity stays valid only as long as a reference to this European Standard is maintained in the list published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Users of this standard should consult frequently the latest list published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

WARNING 2 — Other Union legislation may be applicable to the product(s) falling within the scope of this standard.

Bibliography

[1] EN ISO 9000:2015, Quality management systems - Fundamentals and vocabulary (ISO 9000:2015)

[2] EN 15895:2025, Powder actuated hand-held fixing and hard marking tools - Safety requirements

[3] EN ISO 868, Plastics and ebonite - Determination of indentation hardness by means of a durometer (Shore hardness) (ISO 868)

[4] EN ISO 845, Cellular plastics and rubbers - Determination of apparent density (ISO 845)

[5] EN ISO 2439, Flexible cellular polymeric materials - Determination of hardness (indentation technique) (ISO 2439)

[6] ISO 2859‑3, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes — Part 3: Skip-lot sampling procedures

[7] ISO 2859‑5, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes — Part 5: System of sequential sampling plans indexed by acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot inspection

[8] Directive 2013/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of pyrotechnic articles (recast), OJL 178; 28.6.2013, available from https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2013:178:0027:0065:en:PDF

[9] UN recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods; 15.10.2025, available from https://unece.org/publications/transport/dangerous%20goods

1. Under preparation, current stage: prEN 16265:2025. ↑

2. As impacted by EN ISO 7010:2020/A1:2020; EN ISO 7010:2020/A2:2022; EN ISO 7010:2020/A3:2022; EN ISO 7010:2020/A4:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A5:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A6:2023; EN ISO 7010:2020/A7:2024; EN ISO 7010:2020/A8:2024. ↑