KNSB + Mg

(July 16, 2009) I tested a Loki 38/240 motor with 2 grains of KNSB (65/35) with the addition of 1% magnesium powder. The Magnesium came from a standard (Coleman brand) fire starter block, and it was collected with a Dremel and sanding drum (don't worry I tested it first to make sure that it would not spark and it is not reactive with water). This resulted in a very fine powder that I collected in a disposable cup.

I used my standard method of making KNSB motors but I simply added the Magnesium into the powdered mix before cooking. The grains were made exactly the same as usual and no problems were encountered.

As you can see, the grains had a very nice silver color to them. I put them in my dessicator storage box for a few days and then loaded them in a liner and into the 38/240 case. It was fired at night to (hopefully) observe any flame or sparks the Magnesium might produce.

Grain length: 2.1875"
Propellant Diameter: 1.125"
Core diameter: 0.375"
Nozzle Diameter: 0.25"
Start KN: 177
Max KN: 221
Burn time: ~2 seconds

The motor produced a nice visual flame and seemingly decent thrust, however, I don't know how much since I do not have a test stand yet. After the motor cooled (overnight), I cleaned the casing out and was surprised at how clean it was. The liner did not burn through at all and I had a few paper disks at the top which kept the bulkhead clean. The nozzle cleaned up just fine with water. I did like this motor and will definitely make more in the future.