What is the term for the maximum current that can be applied to an electrical match for 5 seconds at room temperature without igniting?

• A. No Fire Current
• B. Portfire
• C. Quick Match
• D. Safety Fuse

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is the safe electrical threshold for an electric match. The term describes the maximum current that can be applied for a set time (five seconds) at room temperature without causing ignition. This is known as the no-fire current. It serves as a safety limit to prevent accidental ignition during setup and testing; pushing past this current means the heat generated by the electrical current exceeds the ignition temperature of the match, causing ignition. The other terms refer to different pyrotechnic devices: portfire is a slow-burning incendiary used for ignition, quick match is a fast-burning fuse, and safety fuse is a slow-burning fuse for timing delays. Hence, no-fire current is the correct concept.