Abstract: A device for igniting a torch by means of pyrotechnical cartridges, wherein each cartridge is placed in a casing located at a first distance of one to ten meters from the geometrical axis of the torch and at a second distance of two to twenty meters below the orifice of said torch, said casing being provided with a cover adapted to be moved from a closed position wherein the cartridges within the casing are contained in a thermally isolated tight compartment to an open position wherein each cartridge is aimed at a selected point located on the torch axis at a third distance of one to ten meters above the torch orifice, said second distance being greater than said third distance, and said first, second and third distances being selected in such a manner that a/(b+c) has a value comprised between tangent 45.degree. and tangent 20.degree., wherein a represents said first distance, b represents said second distance, and c represents said third distance.