Flare Systems
BALLISTIC IGNITION STARBURST
A New, Safe and Reliable Flare Ignition System. GBA StarBurst is a Rocket Propelled Pyrotechnic Flare Ignition System.
GBA Flare Systems have worked extensively to develop their latest product, called the StarBurst system. The product provides a safe, reliable means of igniting flare tips and pilots as an alternative to both existing pilot based electric ignition systems (like GBA’s CHT system) or to the ballistic systems that use explosive pellets with their attendant hazards.
GBA StarBurst Ignition System
We are aware of the drawbacks of an explosive based system, therefore have based our design on an incendiary pellet that is essentially a non-explosive pyrotechnic.
GBA has achieved an extended range capability by making the pellet rocket powered and solved the guidance problem by using a dedicated tube to guide the pyrotechnic to the flare tip gas envelope.
StarBurst-24 Pellet Launcher
The StarBurst-24 launcher system automates the flare ignition process; Pellets are launched quickly and smoothly, and multiple pellet launches are possible within just a few seconds.
A 24 pellet magazine allows many ignitions before reloading is necessary.
GBA StarBurst Features and advantages
- Tube guided, rocket powered pyrotechnic
- As the pellet emerges from the guide tube, it hits the impact plate and bursts apart releasing multiple incendiary sparks that ignite the flare gas jet in numerous places
- No explosive charge used
- Pellet can negotiate even tight bends in the guide tube
- Because pellet is rocket powered, there is NO pressure build-up in the guide tube
- Pellet uses clean burning advanced solid rocket motor that leaves no significant residue in the guide tube.
- Pellet is a loose fit in the guide tube, small imperfections or obstructions in the tube will not prevent its passage.
- Pellet & sparks burn out within 10m of flare tip leaving no hot parts or burning residue. Pellet casing is caught by the pellet catcher and retained for periodic emptying.
- Local Control or Control from DCS, minimal requirement for instrument air.
- If a pellet is prevented from exiting the guide tube, it becomes inert within 2-3 seconds, and it cannot subsequently ignite the pyrotechnic as the source of ignition, the rocket motor, has burnt out.
