Very simple quick problem

[Bobby119]

I'm attempting to build a simple electronic firework lighter by frying a 10 ohm resistor with a newly purchased 12 volt A23 battery, which is initiated via a toggle switch. I have seen on youtube that the resistors ignite in less than a second, and I expected the same results. Upon closing the circuit (without using the switch), the resistor simply heats up and does not smoke nor ignite. When I tried the same thing using a 9 volt battery, the resistor quickly began to smoke, but did not ignite as I need it to. I tested the A23's voltage, and it was approximetly 11.5 V. My question is why will it not ignite, and how can I correct this.

-Thanks

 

[(*steve*)]

You need a battery that can supply more power and a resistor of the correct value.

Try using AA batteries (or larger) and possibly a lower value resistor.

For maximum heat, the resistor should be the same value as the battery's internal resistance, but this will also cause the battery to get hot.

 

[Bobby119]

Right now i'm unable to obtain a lower ohm resistor, but seeing as the 9 volt battery got it to smoke and glow a little, do you think that if i used two in a series it would light? Or if i used two A23's, or an a23 and a nine volt (im limited on parts) it would light?

-Thanks

 

[(*steve*)]

two 9V batteries in parallel may work better

 

[timothy48342]

Ya know they make ignitors for model rocket engines. I don't know what volt/amp it takes to set them off, but they get red hot right at the tip and I think there is some kind of chemicle there too that flares up to help get things started.
-t
Oh.. And be careful with the fireworks. SAFETY FIRST!

 

[KJ6EAD]

Ya know they make ignitors for model rocket engines. I don't know what volt/amp it takes to set them off, but they get red hot right at the tip and I think there is some kind of chemicle there too that flares up to help get things started.
-t
Oh.. And be careful with the fireworks. SAFETY FIRST!

They're basically a match head with a nichrome heater wire inside and can be found for less than $1 each.

Try a low wattage resistor like 1/16 W hot glued between three matches with a fuse.

 

[Rleo6965]

If you can still find small flashlight bulb. Break the glass and expose the filament. That maybe a help.