Overview

Proper installation of fireworks equipment is critical for safe operation. This guide covers general installation procedures for common equipment types. Always refer to manufacturer-specific instructions for your products.

General Installation Safety

Before installing any equipment:

• ✓ Read all manufacturer instructions completely
• ✓ Inspect all equipment for damage before installation
• ✓ Work in daylight with good visibility
• ✓ Have all necessary tools and hardware ready
• ✓ Work on stable, level ground
• ✓ Wear appropriate safety equipment (gloves, eye protection)
• ✓ Have assistance when handling heavy items

Mortar Tube Installation

HDPE Mortar Tubes

Step 1: Site Preparation

• Select level ground clear of debris
• Ensure adequate clearance above and around tubes
• Mark tube positions if using multiple mortars

Step 2: Tube Installation

• Dig holes to bury tubes at least halfway (minimum depth varies by tube size)
• For 3" tubes: bury at least 8-10 inches
• For 4" tubes: bury at least 10-12 inches
• For 6" tubes: bury at least 12-15 inches
• Ensure tubes are perfectly vertical using a level
• Backfill firmly, tamping soil around tubes

Step 3: Stabilization

• Test stability—tubes should not move when pushed
• If ground burial is not possible, use above-ground bases
• Weight bases with sandbags (minimum 25-50 lbs per tube)
• Never use lightweight or unstable supports

Fiberglass Mortar Racks

Pre-Built Rack Installation:

1. Place rack on level ground or approved base
2. Ensure all tubes are straight and parallel
3. Secure rack with ground stakes if provided
4. Weight the base with sandbags (50-100 lbs minimum)
5. Check that rack cannot tip in any direction
6. Verify tube openings are clear of obstructions

Safety Checklist for Mortars

• ✓ All tubes are vertical (within 5 degrees)
• ✓ Tubes are stable and will not move during firing
• ✓ Tubes are clean inside with no obstructions
• ✓ Base plugs are intact and sealed
• ✓ No cracks, damage, or excessive wear
• ✓ Proper spacing between tubes (minimum 6-8 inches)
• ✓ Pointed away from spectators and structures

Electronic Firing System Installation

Step 1: Control Unit Setup

• Position control unit at safe distance from firing area (minimum 50-100 feet)
• Place on stable, dry surface
• Ensure clear line of sight to firing area
• Keep away from spectators
• Protect from weather if necessary

Step 2: Wiring Installation

1. Test system first: Verify operation with no igniters connected
2. Lay out firing cables: Run from control unit to firing positions
3. Check continuity: Test each circuit before connecting igniters
4. Secure cables: Stake down or weigh cables to prevent movement
5. Label circuits: Clearly mark which circuit fires which effect

Step 3: Igniter Connection

CRITICAL: Ensure system is disarmed and disconnected from power before connecting igniters!

1. Insert igniters into fuse or quickmatch
2. Ensure good contact with ignition compound
3. Secure igniters so they won't pull out
4. Connect wire leads to firing system terminals
5. Observe proper polarity if required by system
6. Keep wire leads away from metal tubes and racks

Step 4: System Testing

1. Clear the firing area of all personnel
2. Power on the system
3. Test continuity on each circuit
4. Verify all circuits show proper connection
5. Arm and immediately disarm system as a test
6. If any circuit fails, disconnect power and inspect

Electrical Safety

• Never work on a powered system
• Use battery power, not AC mains
• Keep all connections dry
• Avoid crossed wires and short circuits
• Have a backup manual firing plan
• Disconnect power between shows if multiple displays

Rack and Display Installation

Cake and Fountain Racks

Installation steps:

1. Position rack on level, non-flammable surface
2. Weight or stake rack to prevent tipping
3. Ensure adequate spacing between items (minimum 3-6 feet)
4. Point all aerials away from spectators
5. Secure items in rack if windy conditions

Ground Display Layout

For choreographed displays:

• Create a diagram before setup
• Mark positions with stakes or flags
• Maintain minimum spacing requirements
• Group similar items for easier management
• Consider wind direction in layout
• Place taller items behind shorter ones for visibility

Chain Fusing (Advanced)

Warning: Chain fusing requires experience and proper training. If you're new to fireworks, light items individually.

Safety Guidelines

• Use only approved fuse materials
• Never use homemade or improvised fuses
• Leave adequate delay between items
• Secure all connections firmly
• Protect fuses from moisture
• Have a single ignition point

Connection Methods

Quick Fuse:

• Insert into item's fuse hole
• Ensure contact with internal fuse
• Tape connection to prevent pull-out
• Calculate timing based on burn rate

Electric Match:

• Follow electrical firing system guidelines
• Ensure proper dip into ignition compound
• Protect connections from moisture
• Test continuity before arming

Site Layout Best Practices

Firing Line Organization

• Front Line: Ground items, fountains, wheels
• Middle Line: Cakes and repeaters
• Back Line: Aerial shells and large items
• Wings: Side effects and flanking displays

Safety Zones

• Firing Area: Only authorized personnel
• Safety Buffer: 50-100 feet around firing area
• Spectator Area: Upwind, behind safety line
• Fallout Zone: Clear area where debris will land

Pre-Show Final Checks

Before ignition, verify:

• ✓ All equipment is properly installed and secured
• ✓ All safety equipment is in place and ready
• ✓ Spectators are at safe distances
• ✓ Weather conditions are acceptable
• ✓ All personnel understand the firing plan
• ✓ Emergency procedures are established
• ✓ Emergency contacts are available
• ✓ You have obtained necessary permits
• ✓ Neighbors have been notified
• ✓ Site is clear of flammable materials

Common Installation Mistakes

Avoid these errors:

• ❌ Angled mortars (can cause shells to fly horizontally)
• ❌ Inadequate stabilization (items can tip during firing)
• ❌ Items too close together (can cause chain reactions)
• ❌ Buried items too shallow (can blow out of ground)
• ❌ Wire crossings and tangles (electrical shorts)
• ❌ Ignoring wind direction (smoke and fallout issues)
• ❌ Inadequate safety distances (puts spectators at risk)

Equipment Maintenance

After each use:

• Inspect all equipment for damage
• Clean mortars and racks (remove debris and residue)
• Check firing system connections and wires
• Replace worn or damaged components
• Store equipment properly (dry, secure location)
• Document any issues for future reference

Product-Specific Guides

For detailed installation instructions for specific products, refer to:

• Manufacturer instruction sheets (included with products)
• Our product page technical specifications
• Video tutorials on our website
• Customer support team for expert guidance