Description
The purpose of the flare is to reveal the approach of enemy troops.
The flare case is a steel tube approximately 5.5 inches long and 2.5 inches in diameter. Fixed to one end is a pull-type, spring actuated firing mechanism to which the trip wire is attached. Enclosed in the tube are the primer, black-powder charge, impregnated muslin disc, and pyrotechnic composition. Two 40 foot lengths of wire are available, making it possible to have two trip wires running in opposite directions. A web belt secures the flare to a tree.
Functioning
A tug of three pounds or more on the trip wire draws the plunger and firing pin away from the primer and compresses a spring which surrounds the firing pin. As the plunger is pulled away from the firing mechanism, its notched end disengages from that of the firing pin, which is then forced against the primer by the compressed firing-pin spring. The primer ignites 0.3 grams of black powder. The black powder ignites the impregnated muslin disc, and in turn the pyrotechnic composition. The resultant gas pressure blows out the closure disc from the head, and the flame from the burning candle illuminates the surrounding area. White smoke given off by the flare does not interfere with the effectiveness of illumination.
See Also
Nothing else to see.
Source(s)
OP 1664, Volume 1 - US Explosive Ordnance (1947)
USNBD - Bombs and Fuzes, Pyrotechnics (1945)
