Sparky motors & sprinklers
Quote from oliverhub on August 4, 2025, 8:47 pmI would like to thank the experienced (old) members of our club for their wisdom and guidance during my time on the field. This is my third summer with the club, and I come home with new lessons every month. Before the water deluge test was initiated, we had a perfect day in the park. We all must remain vigilant to protect this venue. (and protect our rockets from the irrigation system, it now would appear)
Having said that. It was pointed out yesterday that "sparky motors" fall into their own category. This sent me to the internet and review of all safety protocols and regulations that govern our sport (and our insurance). After finding numerous references to sparky motors and why they are treated as HPR motors regardless of the propellant weight or impulse . It has to do with NFPA fire regulations and the use of Titanium in the propellant. see the attached screen shots. I refused to buy the entire code and this is the best I could do.
I could find no NAR documents that speak to this issue directly. The safety officer program refers to NFPA 1125 and refers to sparky motors requiring an additional 50% of area cleared of flammable materials, but not as to their composition resulting in their classification as HPR motors. SO help me out. Anyone have a definitive ruling on this? For myself, I will continue to remain within the limits for low power rocketry while on Wall Twp site. But sparky motors are cool to watch.
Can I just add, I think the automated fire suppression system test was over the top. Fire Marshal Bill would be proud.
I would like to thank the experienced (old) members of our club for their wisdom and guidance during my time on the field. This is my third summer with the club, and I come home with new lessons every month. Before the water deluge test was initiated, we had a perfect day in the park. We all must remain vigilant to protect this venue. (and protect our rockets from the irrigation system, it now would appear)
Having said that. It was pointed out yesterday that "sparky motors" fall into their own category. This sent me to the internet and review of all safety protocols and regulations that govern our sport (and our insurance). After finding numerous references to sparky motors and why they are treated as HPR motors regardless of the propellant weight or impulse . It has to do with NFPA fire regulations and the use of Titanium in the propellant. see the attached screen shots. I refused to buy the entire code and this is the best I could do.
I could find no NAR documents that speak to this issue directly. The safety officer program refers to NFPA 1125 and refers to sparky motors requiring an additional 50% of area cleared of flammable materials, but not as to their composition resulting in their classification as HPR motors. SO help me out. Anyone have a definitive ruling on this? For myself, I will continue to remain within the limits for low power rocketry while on Wall Twp site. But sparky motors are cool to watch.
Can I just add, I think the automated fire suppression system test was over the top. Fire Marshal Bill would be proud.
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