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Pyrotechnics

Submarine Signals

This range of submarine launched stores has been designed for use from submerged vessels as a means of signalling:

	To identify the position or existence of a submerged submarine to surface ships.
	To send messages in a passive mode.
	To signal or represent torpedo firing during exercises.

The signals are launched from within the submarine through the pressure hull via the Strachan & Henshaw submerged submarine ejectors (SSE) Mk.2, Mk.4 mods OB, 3 and 3v, Mk.5 mods 01 and 2, Mk.6 and Mk.8. The principle of operation is that on ejection, the end plate beneath the hydrostatic mechanism is removed and remains in the launcher. The water pressure acting on a flexible diaphragm in the base of the mechanism holds two cocked strikers in the safe position until the float reaches a depth of approximately 10 metres. At this depth the hydrostatic pressure allows the strikers to move forward on to igniferous caps percussion. Flame from the caps percussion ignites a 10 second nominal pyrotechnic delay train which in turn transfers flame to the main filling to provide the desired effect.

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