What Happens When Ammo Burns? Sporting Ammunition and the Fire Fighter | SAAMI.org

Published on November 28, 2012
Duration: 25:47

This video, a collaboration between SAAMI and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, aims to educate firefighters on the actual risks associated with sporting ammunition fires. It debunks the myth of mass ammunition explosions, presenting empirical data from extensive testing that shows sporting ammunition poses a minimal explosion hazard and is less risky than many common household items. The findings are intended to reassure first responders and guide their safety protocols during incidents involving ammunition.

Quick Summary

Sporting ammunition fires present a surprisingly low risk of mass explosion for firefighters. Extensive SAAMI and IAFC testing reveals that unconfined powder burns with low energy, projectiles have minimal velocity, and impacts or crushing do not cause chain reactions, making it less hazardous than many common household items.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Mission
  2. 02:05Cartridge Impact Testing
  3. 03:39Drop Testing from 65 Feet
  4. 05:05Bullet Impact and Chain Reaction Test
  5. 07:53Blasting Cap Ignition Test
  6. 09:53Mechanical Crushing (Forklift and Bulldozer)
  7. 12:19Bonfire and Mass Fire Tests
  8. 17:18Retail Store and Semi-Trailer Simulations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary risk associated with sporting ammunition fires for firefighters?

Contrary to common belief, sporting ammunition fires pose a very low risk of mass explosion. Testing shows projectiles have low energy, and ignition of one round does not cause a chain reaction to others, making it less hazardous than many household items.

How does unconfined smokeless powder behave when ignited?

When smokeless powder is ignited outside of a firearm's chamber, it burns much slower and with significantly less energy than when confined. This results in extremely low projectile velocities and minimal penetration capability.

What safety measures are recommended for firefighters dealing with ammunition fires?

Firefighters can approach and extinguish sporting ammunition fires using standard water-based methods. The projectiles have low velocity and are easily stopped by common building materials like sheetrock, posing minimal risk even at close range.

Does impact or crushing cause sporting ammunition to explode?

No, extensive testing demonstrates that sporting ammunition is highly unlikely to ignite from impact or mechanical crushing. Even when rounds are shot with high-power rifles or crushed by heavy machinery, chain reactions or mass explosions do not occur.

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