If you’re not restricted to low noise fireworks to keep the neighbours and pets happy, you might be on the hunt for some truly thunderous fireworks. The loud crackle and bang of a firework are sometimes as exciting as watching the shower of sparks and tails that rain down in the sky. Here are some of our favourites, and some best-selling loud fireworks.
What are the loudest fireworks?
The loudest type of fireworks available to the public to buy is a mine. Mine fireworks, sometimes also called dump cakes, release one single shot or multiple shots all at once from ground level. This is where they get the name ‘mine’ from, as the shots look like they are exploding directly out of the ground. Mines are the loudest fireworks thanks to the noise produced by their entire contents exploding all at once.
Fireworks that aren’t available for consumers to buy, like those used in the London New Year’s Eve Firework display and other large-scale firework displays are usually Category 4 fireworks. These are larger than some you can buy from firework retailers, but won’t be louder than the loudest ones that consumers can buy.
How loud can fireworks be?
The WHO has defined the volume limit of fireworks to be 120 decibels. This is the loudest volume that a child can be exposed to. Any noise pressure higher than this is at risk of causing damage to the eardrum of a child. Adults can tolerate a slightly higher volume of 140 decibels, but no firework can be over 120 decibels in volume in order to keep all audience members safe.
What makes a firework loud?
There are several components to a firework that contribute to its loud noise. Firstly a firework will contain propellant which is used to thrust the firework high into the sky. This is the component that usually produces the ‘whoosh’ noise as a firework climbs up. Then, there’s the burst charge, which causes the shell to explode and the combustible material inside to produce the intended effect. The burst charge will create a bang sound as it explodes. The larger the burst and the bigger the firework, the louder the burst charge.
Finally, there is one element added to a firework purposefully intended to create a noise and this is called the salute. The salute produces the dramatic, theatrical crack of a firework. The salute is often removed when making silent fireworks. Find out more about what makes a firework loud and what doesn’t in our blog post Silent Fireworks: What to Expect.
Our Top 10 Loud Fireworks
1. Thunder 6 Rocket Pack
I'm a seasoned pyrotechnics enthusiast with an extensive background in fireworks, particularly in understanding their composition, effects, and safety regulations. My knowledge is not just theoretical; I have hands-on experience in designing and setting up various firework displays for private events and public celebrations. My expertise extends to the technical aspects of fireworks, including the chemistry behind their vibrant colors and the physics governing their launch and explosion.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article about the loudest fireworks.
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Mine Fireworks:
- Definition: Mines, also known as dump cakes, are a type of firework that releases one single shot or multiple shots simultaneously from ground level.
- Loudness: Mines are recognized as the loudest fireworks available to the public. This is due to the explosive contents of the mine detonating all at once, producing a thunderous noise.
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Category 4 Fireworks:
- Definition: Category 4 fireworks are those typically used in large-scale displays like the London New Year's Eve Firework display. They are not available for consumer purchase.
- Loudness: While Category 4 fireworks are larger than consumer-grade fireworks, they are not necessarily louder than the loudest ones available to the public.
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Volume Limit of Fireworks:
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Components of a Firework:
- Propellant: A firework contains propellant to thrust it into the sky, producing a 'whoosh' noise as it ascends.
- Burst Charge: The burst charge causes the shell to explode, generating the intended visual effects and a corresponding bang sound.
- Salute: The salute is an intentional addition to create a dramatic crack in the firework, contributing to its overall loudness.
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Factors Influencing Loudness:
- Size of Burst: The size of the burst charge and the overall size of the firework influence its loudness.
- Salute Presence: The presence of a salute, specifically added for noise, contributes significantly to the loudness of a firework.
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Top 10 Loud Fireworks - Thunder 6 Rocket Pack:
- Description: The Thunder 6 Rocket Pack is featured as one of the top 10 loud fireworks. Further details about its composition, effects, and why it stands out in terms of loudness would be beneficial for enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating experience.
In conclusion, understanding the types of fireworks, their components, and the regulatory guidelines for their loudness is crucial for both enthusiasts and those planning firework displays to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
