ELECTRIC INITIATION

USERS MANUAL

ELECTRIC INITIATION
USERS MANUAL
This users manual is intended as a guide for all persons using electric initiation when blasting. This users manual gives knowledge about the range of possibilities that a well designed and developed initiation system can provide and also points out the risks that may be present when using electric initiation. This manual only describes products and systems from Dyno Nobel. The detonators presented in this manual are solely intended for initiation of explosives in boreholes. The only exception is when electric detonators are used for initiation of NONEL-rounds, in this case the detonator must be well covered with drill cuttings, sand or similar material. The detonators described in this manual must not be used in gassy environments such as in coal mines and other work sites where explosive gasses may occur.

Photo: Reinhold Carlsson, Stig O Olofsson Illustrations: Gsta Lithner, Thommy Gustafsson

SOO/2002-08/utgva1Eng/TB

Content

Detonator description Group 1 detonator (A/S/NT) Group 1A detonator (U) Group 2 detonator (VA) Group 3 detonator (HU) Color coding Marking on the detonators shell VA-OD Joining detonators in a round MS and HS-detonators Measuring and testing of electric rounds Electric resistance values for different groups of detonators Resistance and insulation meter RIM2 Measuring with RIM2 Firing of a round Blasting machine CB 20 VA Operating instructions for blasting machine CB 20 VA Blasting machine CI 160 VA Operating instructions for blasting machine CI 160 VA Finding faults Connection wire and firing cables Hazards in connection with electric initiation Destruction of detonators Data sheet Handling of misfires Declaration of conformity

2 5 5 6 6 7 8 8 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 29

Detonator description.
The principle of operation of an electric detonator is that, when a high enough electric current is passed through the legwires, a bridge wire is heated in the fusehead, which then deflagrates and initiates the delay element which in turn iniLegwires tiates the explosive in bottom of the detonator after a time determined by the length and content of the delay element. Dyno Nobels electric detonators have a strength rating of No. 8 (according to Prior test 10) for the safe initiation of cap sensitive explosives and primers. They are known as Sealing plug NPED*-detonators (Non Primary Explosive Detonator), this means they do not contain any primary explosive (e.g. lead azide). NPED-detonators are considerably less sensitive to impact and rough handling than detonators Crimp that contain primary explosive. The sensitive lead azide in a conventional detonator is replaced by an I-element in which PETN is enclosed in Protection of a steel tube. In the I-element a deflagration turns into a fusehead detonation which in turn initiates the base charge. Fusehead The detonator shell, which is made of aluminum, contains, in addition to the secondary explosive in the I-element, a Bridge wire base charge of RDX (also a secondary explosive) which initiates the explosive in contact with the detonator. The total amount of explosives in the detonator is approx. 1 g. Delay element In the delay element the detonation is delayed pyrotechnically for a predetermined time after the firing impulse has reached the detonator. The delay times vary in steps between 25 ms (0.025 sec.) and 5000 ms (5 sec.). Enclosing the fusehead is an electrostatic protective sleeve that decreases the risk of unintenInitition element tional initiation due to static discharge. (I-element) The detonator is fitted with a sealing plug to make it water resistant. Electric detonators are manufactured with two types of Base charge delay, millisecond delay (MS) and halfsecond delay (HS). In the MS-detonators the delay time increases in increAluminum shell ments of 25 ms between each period number while the increment is 500 ms in the HS-detonators . Electric HS-detonators are designed for use in underground operations as longer delay times are needed in tunnel rounds to give enough time for the rock to break and be thrown from the tunnel face. HS-detonators are prohibited for use in surface operations as the delay times are too long and can cause flyrock. As underground activities have become more electrified electric HS-detonators have lost much of their importance and have been replaced by non-electric initiation systems such as NONEL LP which reduce the risk of unintentional initiation. Electric MS-detonators are used in surface operations and mostly in smaller operations with low bench heights.
* US patent No. 4.727.808

The delay time of an electric detonator is the sum of the delays in the delay element, the intermediate composition, used for fine tuning of the accurate delay time, and the I-element. The delay element is chosen by test firing to determine its delay time. Samples are taken from different batches. The delay of the I-element is consistant and does not change between different times of manufacture. When the delay time of the delay element is known the intermediate composition is placed on the I-element to fine tune the delay time to acheive the nominal time. During the last 50 years research has been concentrated on better precision in the timing of the detonators. However, there is an unavoidable time scatter between different detonators with the same nominal delay time. The scatter depends on small differences in raw material, packing density of the pyrotechnical material and the age of the detonator. In the MS-series the delay time between the different period numbers is short (0.025 sec.) and the margins small to avoid overlapping. Overlapping is when a detonator with a higher period number explodes before one with at lower period number. To avoid overlapping both precision and accuracy are needed. The delay times must not scatter too much in combination with a mean value that does not differ too much from the nominal value. This is explained by the following picture. Good precision and accuracy is achieved when the mean value is right and the scatter is low.
T Tn+1

Good precision, right mean value

Good precision, wrong mean value

Bad precision, right mean value

Bad precision, wrong mean value Precision in timing for a number of detonators may be compared to precision in rifle shooting.

For safe and successful blasting with electric detonators the following is needed: 1. 2. 3. 4. A firing pattern designed for the round to be blasted. A blasting machine capable of firing the size of the round with the type of detonators being used. Knowledge of electric hazards at the worksite and ensuring they are eliminated. That each series in series/parallel blasts are of the same size. Careful connection of lead wires and scrupulous testing of the different parts of the round.

A capacitor blasting machine which is capable of firing the number of detonators in the round is the most reliable means of initiation. Knowledge of the hazards at the worksite that could cause unintentional initiation of one or several electric detonators is absolutely necessary in order to be able to eliminate them. See page 23 for the risks that may occur and recommendations for their elimination.

It is important to take extreme care when firing with electric detonators.Lack of attention to detail can The design of the firing pattern depends on the result in damage to property and injury to people. number of detonators in the round and the type of All electrical connections must be well-made and blasting machine that is used. Generally rounds with all joints well insulated. Bare electric wires must less than 50 detonators can be connected in one not come into contact with earth. The resistance of series. Larger rounds can be divided into several all series must be checked and must tally with the series which are then connected together in parallel. calculated values. Each series in a round connected The source of energy that is used for the initiation in series/parallel should have the same resistance of an electric blast must be approved by the appro- and only approved connecting wire and firing cable priate authority in the country where it is used. must be used.

For a successful simultaneous initiation of a great number of detonators, sufficient electrical power must be delivered to all detonators within a few milliseconds. The time required to heat up the bridgewire until the fusehead deflagrates is a function of the voltage and the current. It is important that all detonators in a firing circuit are initiated instantaneously. If one detonator in the round fires before any other the circuit breaks and one or several detonators will not get the firing impulse and misfires will occur. Therefore, Dyno Nobels instantaneous detonators have a very short delay time which is obtained by a pyrotechnical batch which is pressed directly into the detonator. Due to the very short delay time, there is no risk that the firing current breaks the circuit too early in a circuit with several detonators connected in series. Therefore, instantaneous detonators should not be connected in series. Different types of detonators have different firing properties and must not be used in the same round. The same is true for detonators from different manufacturers. Electric detonators are classified in 4 Groups or 4 Classes depending on their electric properties. The denomination Group is the traditional Nordic conception with the subdivisions 1, 1A, 2 and 3. In the proposed new European Standard (prEN 13763-1) the denomination is Class with subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4. In this manual the denomination Group will be used. Nordic denomination Group 1 Group 1A Group 2 Group 3 Older denomination (Type A/S/NT) (Type U) (Type VA) (Type HU/XS) European denomination Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4

Group 1 detonator (type A/S/NT) Group 1 detonator (called NT-detonator by Dyno Nobel) is a conventional electric detonator. The no fire current is < 0.25 A. A minimum of 0.6 A firing current is required to initiate one Group 1 detonator and a minimum of 1.0 A is required to reliably initiate a series of Group 1 detonators.

Group 1A detonator (type U) Group 1A detonators are somewhat safer in hazardous situations than Group 1 detonators. The no fire current is < 0.45 A. A minimum of 1.0 A firing current is required to fire one Group 1A detonator and a minimum of 1.5 A is required to initiate a series of Group 1A detonators.

Group 2 detonator (type VA) Group 2 detonators are detonators with a high degree of safety. Even though VA detonators are much safer in the presence of electrical hazards than Group 1 detonators, safety precautions must still be taken close to strong radio transmitters, radar, powerlines over 70 kV and during thunderstorms. No fire current is < 1.2 A. A minimum of 2.2 A is required to fire one VA detonator and a minimum of 3.5 A is required to fire a series of VA detonators. The resistance of VA detonators is independent of legwire length and is 3.6 +0.3 at + 20 C. Note that the resistance depends on the temperature and decreases when the temperature falls. The legwires can be of different material (iron, brass or copper) depending on legwire length. Therefore the temperature dependence is different for different legwire lengths. Group 3 detonator (type HU/XS) The HU/XS detonator is a detonator with a very high degree of safety against electric hazards. No fire current is < 4.0 A. A minimum of 6.0 A is required to fire one Group 3 detonator and a minimum of 25 A is required to fire a series of Group 3 detonators.

Dyno Nobels Group 3 detonators are not included in the CE certification according to directive 93/15/EEG and may therefore not be sold within EU without special permission. These products are included in this manual only for information and for markets outside EU as well as for customers with requisite permits.

Color coding of electric detonators. Electric detonators are color coded by different colors on the legwires. Common for all groups is that one of MS-(millisecond) detonators legwires is green and one of the HS-(halfsecond) detonators legwires is red. The instantaneous detonator has one white legwire. Group 1 NT-instantaneous NT-MS NT-HS* Group 1A U-instantaneous U-MS U-HS* Group 2 VA-instantaneous VA-MS VA-HS* Group 3* XS/HU-instantaneous XS/HU-MS XS/HU-HS Blue/white Blue/green Blue/red Grey/white Grey/green Grey/red Red/white Red/green Red/red Legwire colors Yellow/white Yellow/green yellow/red

* NOTE that Dyno Nobels HS-detonators and Group 3 detonators are not certified under EU directive 93/15/EEG. The above color code is the code used by Dyno Nobel Europe and based on international practice. That does not mean that all manufacturers follow this practice. NEVER USE DETONATORS FROM DIFFERENT GROUPS IN THE SAME ROUND. IT WILL MOST PROBABLY CAUSE MISFIRES AS THE DIFFERENT GROUPS HAVE DIFFERENT ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES. FOR THE SAME REASON DETONATORS FROM DIFFERENT MANUFACTURERS MUST NOT BE USED IN THE SAME ROUND. 7

Marking on the detonators shell.

Dyno Nobels detonators are marked with the delay time. Therefore it is possible to deduce which period number a detonator has even though the identification tape has disappeared during the charging operation. For example, the marking 500 ms shows that it is an MS detonator No. 20. If it states 25 ms is it a MS detonator No.1

OD-detonator.

For underwater blasting and other operations where the detonators are exposed to high pressures Dyno Nobel manufactures detonators with reinforced legwires and double detonator shells. All detonators from Dyno Nobel can be made in OD version.

Joining detonators in a round.

When connecting a round, it is important that bare legwires or joints do not come into contact with earth or with each other. In contact with earth, the initiation current may leak into the earth and only a part of the round may fire. If joints come in contact with each other the initiation current may take a shortcut with the same consequences. For this reason all detonators manufactured by Dyno Nobel are fitted with a connecting sleeve fixed to one of the legwires. For transport the other legwire is loosely inserted into the connecting sleeve. When connecting the circuit the end of the wire with no insulation from one detonator is inserted into the connecting sleeve of the next. The connecting sleeve is twisted 5 - 6 turns and a good connection is obtained.

For electric detonators that are not supplied with connecting sleeves there are available grease filled connecting sleeves are available. These connecting sleeves are especially useful in wet operations.

All detonators manufactured by Dyno Nobel Europe are fitted with connecting sleeves as standard.

Dyno Nobel manufactures three series of electric detonators: - MS-series - Extended MS-series - HS-series MS series detonators are intended use in bench and trench blasting. The extended MS-series detonators are used in underground operations and bench blasting with large burdens (8 - 10 m). HS-series detonators are intended only for underground blastings. Delay times: MS-series: No. 0 No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 No. 5 No. 6 No. 7 No. 8 No. 9 No. 10 Instantaneous 25 ms 50 ms 75 ms 100 ms 125 ms 150 ms 175 ms 200 ms 225 ms 250 ms No. 11 No. 12 No. 13 No. 14 No. 15 No. 16 No. 17 No. 18 No. 19 No. 20 275 ms 300 ms 325 ms 350 ms 375 ms 400 ms 425 ms 450 ms 475 ms 500 ms

The extended MS-series is a continuation of the MS-series. In underground operations the longer delay times can be useful. Extended MS-series: No. 24 600 ms No. 28 700 ms No. 32 800 ms No. 36 900 ms No. 40 1000 ms No. 44 1100 ms HS-series*: No. 0 No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 No. 5 No. 6 No. 7 No. 8 No. 9 No. 10 25 ms 500 ms 1000 ms 1500 ms 2000 ms 2500 ms 3000 ms 3500 ms 4000 ms 4500 ms 5000 ms No. 48 No. 56 No. 64 No. 72 No. 80 1200 ms 1400 ms 1600 ms 1800 ms 2000 ms

* HS-series are not CE certified under directive 93/15/EEG,

Testing and firing the round.

The measuring instruments and blasting machines that are used for the testing and firing of electric rounds must be approved SP* for use in Sweden. The use of batteries or power from mains is strictly prohibited. Capacitor blasting machines have proved to be very reliable even under severe working conditions. The introduction of Group 2 and Group 3 detonators with high in-built safety increased the demand for blasting machines with high capacity. The blasting machines CB 20 VA and CI 160 VA are approved according to Swedish Standard SS 499 07 10 and are CE certified in accordance with EMC and LVD directives. Consult the Users Manual each time this symbol is used for an explanation of the potential risk and what measures to take to eliminate (avoid) the risk.
* Sveriges Provnings- och Forskningsinstitut.

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Testing electric circuits.

Electric detonator rounds may be connected in series, in parallel or in a combination of series and parallel connections. Which method of connection is used depends on the size of the rounds and the blasting machine available. When a firing circuit is connected in series the measuring procedure is simple. Just multiply the number of detonators by the resistance of one detonator. The measured value should be the same as the theoretical calculation. When the firing circuit is connected in series/ parallel the connection procedure is somewhat more complicated. Each series in the round must be of the same size and the resistance of each series must not vary by more than 5% between highest and lowest value. It is best if all series contain the same number of detonators. When the series are connected in parallel the resistance becomes lower as the area through which the firing current is to go through increases. If we have two series the area is doubled and the resistance is half of that of one series. With 3 series connected in parallel the resistance will be one third and so on.

Connection in series

Connection in series/parallel

Resistance/series Resistance after connection in parallel = Number of series In the top example there are 18 VA detonators connected in one series. The resistance is then 18 x 3.6 = 65 . In the lower example there are 30 VA detonators connected in 2 series. The resistance in each series is 15x3.6 = 54 . The resistance of the round connected in parallel is then 54/2 = 27 . Note that the resistance of the firing cable is

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Electric resistance for the different detonators groups.

Refers to the total resistance in inclusive of legwires and detonator at +20o C. Legwire length m 2 3 4 6 8 10 15 16 20 24 25 35 Group 1* A/S/NT 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.9 2.1 2.4 3.0 3.6 4.2 Group 1A* U 2.3 2.3 2.9 4.0 1.9 2.5 3.1 3.7 Group 2* VA 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 Group3 HU/XS 0.13 0.55 0.79 1.3 2.0 2.9 4.2

* The tolerance of the detonator resistance is +0.3.

For further information about electric properties see page 26 Data sheet.

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Resistance and insulation meter RIM2. (Not on the market, not yet approved)

Test instruments used to check electric rounds must be approved by SP for use in Sweden. The use of electricians resistance meter is strictly forbidden as the measuring current is far too high. RIM2 is a combination instrument for measurement of the resistance in individual detonator, detonators connected in series and rounds connected in series/ parallel as well as measurement of leakage to earth through insulation faults. The test instrument RIM2 is digital and starts and selects measuring range automatically, the blaster only needs to connect the round (or part of the round) to the terminals of the instrument and read the result.

The displayed value is automatically rounded off to the accuracy needed in practical blasting work. RIM2 has an in-built resistor for the selftest function. RIM2 is tested by pressing the green button. The instrument is powered by a 9V battery and displays when it is time for a replacement battery to be fitted. When blasting with heavy covering material it is good practice to test the circuit after the placement of each mat. In that way discontinuities in the circuit are discovered quickly and can be corrected. RIM2 is a future product and thus not yet approved by the authorities.
* Sveriges Provnings- och Forskningsinstitut

Technical data for RIM2

Range of resistance (R-measurement): (I-measurement): Measuring current: Working temperature : Size (l x b x h): Weight : Battery:

0-1999 0-19k 1 mA -25 C till +55 C 245 x 65 x 75 mm 0.45 kg 1 pc 9 V battery 6F22

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Measuring with RIM2.

Measuring of resistance and insulation must be done separately. If displayed value does not stabilize, i.e fluctuates more than than one unit in the last figure, the instrument is either faulty or the measurement affected by external interference. Such interference may come from powerlines, radio transmitters or similar. The instrument must not be used until the cause of the faulty reading is identified and taken care of. MEASUREMENT OF RESISTANCE

Connect to terminals as shown on sketch. The instrument starts automatically at a resistance less than 30 k. The resistance is displayed in . NOTE! Do not use the instruments isolation measuring function for resistance measurement as the result then will be faulty due to the influence of capacitance between the object being measured and earth.

INSULATION MEASUREMENT Connect to terminals as shown on sketch. The instrument starts automatically if the insulation resistance is less than 30 k. The insulation value is dispalyed in k (1 k = 1000). The round can be fired only at the following insulation values. If the resistance of the round is less than 100 : Insulation value must be at least 400 (0.4 k). If the resistance of the round is over 100 : The insulation value must be at least four times the resistance of the round. Note! Do not use the instruments resistance function for measuring the insulation as an earth fault may not be detected.

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Blasting machine CB 20 VA.

The CB 20 VA is a capacitor blasting machine designed for initiation of up to 20 VA detonators connected in one series with a firing cable that has a maximum resistance of 5. The blasting machine is battery powered and requires a two handed operation to avoid unintendedl initiation of the round. CB 20 VA is delivered with rechargeable batteries that are located in the handle. The batteries are charged by connecting the terminals of the blasting machine to a DC source of 12 or 14 V, i.e. the cigarette lighter outlet in a car or to a battery charger.

In case of emergency the rechargeable batteries can be replaced by ordinary batteries. (Do not try to recharge ordinary batteries). The control panel of the blasting machine has three lamps that indicate: 1. If the batteries are sufficiently charged. 2. That the resistance in one series is within the capacity of the blasting machine. 3. That the capacitor is charged and ready for initiation.

Technical data for CB 20 VA

Capacity, max. number of detonators: Max. resistance of the round : Charging time: Capacitance: Firing current: Working temperature: Weight : Size (l x w x h):

See tables on page 16 77 ohm approx. 15 sec. 200 F 540 V -25 C till +55 C 0.65 kg 245 x 65 x 75 mm

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Operating instructions for blasting machines CB 20 VA and CB 400 NT.

There is a variant of CB 20 VA which is adapted to Group 1 and 1A detonators called CB 400 NT. Note that CB 400 NT is not approved for use in Sweden but comply with the standards in LVD and EMC directives. General CB 20 VA is a capacitor blasting machine designed for the initiation of 20 Group2/VA detonators in one series alternatively 120 Group lA detonators in 3 series with a firing cables resistance of 5 . The firing machine requires a two handed operation to avoid unintended initiation of the round. With in-built test functions the charge level of the batteries may be checked as well as if the resistance of the round is within the blasting machines capacity. The blasting machine must not be used as circuit tester for the round. Thr blasting machine is powered by built-in batteries. As standard CB 20 VA and CB 400 NT are delivered with rechargeable NiCd batteries. The capacity of CB 20 VA and CB 400 NT for different types of detonators. For the types of detonators that have different resistance among themselves, also the total permitted resistance is stated. Group 1 (type A/S/NT)
Number Number of Total Maximum of parallel detonators number of resistance series per series detonators per series, 1 2 3 4 170 140 120 100 170 280 360 400 425 350 300 250

Group 1A (type U)

Total Number Number of Maximum of parallel detonators number of resistance series per series detonators per series, 1 2 3 70 50 40 70 100 120 245 175 140

Group 1, A/S/NT detonators. CB 400 NT can initiate up to 170 detonators in one series and 400 in 4 parallel series. In the table on the left the following data has been used: Firing current < 1 A, firing impulse < 5 mWs/. The resistance of each detonator is assumed to be 2.5 and the firing cable resistance to be 5 . The resistance of Group 1 detonators depends on the legwire length. Group 1A, U detonators. When calculating the firing capacity of CB 400 NT the following data has been used: Firing current < 1.5 A, firing impulse < 16 mWs/. The resistance of each detonator is assumed to be 3.5 and the firing cable resistance to be 5 . The resistance of Group 1A detonators depends on the legwire length. Group 2, VA detonators. CB 20 VA/CB 400 NT can initiate up to 20 detonators. In the table on the left the following data has been used: Firing current < 3.5 A, firing impulse < 140 mWs/. The resistance of each detonator is assumed to be 3.5 and the firing cable resistance to be 5 . The resistance of Group 2 detonators is independent of legwire length. Group 3, HU/XS detonators CB 400 NT can initiate up to 3 HU/XS detonators In the table on the left, the following data have been used: Firing current < 25 A, firing impulse < 2500 mWs/. The resistance of each detonator is assumed to 0.6 and the firing cable resistance 5 . HU/XS detonators are connected only in a single series circuit. The resistance of Group 3 detonators depends on the legwire length.

Grupp 2 (typ VA)

Maximum Number Number of Total resistance of parallel detonators number of series per series detonators per series, 1 20 20 72

Group 3 (HU/XS)
Number Number of of parallel detonators series per series 1 1 1 3 2 1 Legwire length, m 4 6 10 Maximum resistance per series, 1.8 1.8 1.8

The electric detonators in the round must all be of the same type and the lowest period number must be No.1 Instantaneous detonators must not be used in rounds connected in series as they may break the firing circuit too early.

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Repair Any repair to the blasting machine must be made by a person who has knowledge and experience of the electrical, mechanical and safety requirements (standards) that applies to the machine. If the machine has been opened up it is of utmost importance that the sealing is made correctly when re-assambling. Battery testing Press the RED button TESTING. The lamp BATT shall light up. If the lamp does not light up, the batteries must be recharged at the earliest opportunity, or if dry cell batteries are used they should be replaced. NOTE! If the lamp BATT does not light up or if it goes out during the charging operation, the machine can be used only if the lamp CHARGE lights up within 30 sec after the green button CHARGING being pressed. The normal charging time to reach firing voltage is approx. 15 sec. If the lamp CHARGE does not light up within 30 sec after the green button CHARGING being pressed, the batteries must be recharged (or replaced) before the machine is used. Charging the batteries The batteriesare charged by connecting the blasting machine to 12 -14 V DC, e.g. a car battery. Observe the polarity according to the marking on the terminals of the blasting machine. The green lamp BATT lights up to indicate that the batteries are being charged. The charging time for depleted batteries is approx. 14 hours. Replacement of batteries Replacement of batteries, battery pack or battery holder is made by unscrewing the battery cover on the handle of the blasting machine. When changing rechargable Ni-MH, 4.8 V and 12 mAh, battery pack or to holder for dry cell the connecting cables must be detached from the old battery pack and soldered to the new pack or battery holder. If dry cell are used instead of rechargable NiCd batteries they must be of Alkaline type and placed in the battery holder according to instruction in the holder. Note! Do not recharge dry cell batteries. Instruction DANGEROUS VOLTAGE! Do not touch the terminals and firing cable when firing. Max. volatage 550 V. Firing l. First step: Evacuate the danger zone. 2. Connect the firing cable to the terminals by introducing the cables both ends into the holes on top of the blasting machine at the same time as the terminals buttons are kept depressed. 3. Press the red button TESTING The lamp ROUND shall light up and remain lit as long as the button is depressed. Also the lamp BATT lights up. 4. If the lamp ROUND lights up when the button is depressed and thereafter goes out, the resistance of the round is too high and no firing should be attempted as a misfire most probably will follow. 5. If the round test is satisfactory: release the button TESTING. Press the green button CHARGING and keep it pressed until the lamp CHARGE lights up. Charging time is appox. 15 sec. 6. FIRE the round by pressing the RED button FIRING while the green charging button is kept depressed. 7. Disconnect the firing cable.

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Firing machine CI 160 VA.

CI 160 VA is a capacitor blasting machine for the safe and reliable initiation of up to 160 Group 2 (VA) detonators connected in 4 parallel series and a firing cable resistance not exceeding 2.5 . The blasting machine can also be used for Group 1, Group 1A and Group 3 detonators. Tables for the blasting machines capacity for those Groups are presented on the next page. CI 160 VA is charged up by the means of a hand cranked generator. The

maximum voltage (1950 V) is reached after approx. 20 sec. The charging level is shown on a meter which is divided in 4 zones (I - IV). The required charge level for a given size of the round is indicated on a plate on the blasting machine. Thus the firing current may be adapted to the number of detonators in the round, and the machines maximum firing current is used only when necessary

Technical data for CI 160 VA.

Capacity, max. number of detonators: Max, firing current: Capacitance: Working temperature: Operations: - charging - firing Weight: Size (l x w x h):

160 (type VA). Also see table on page 19 1950 V 105 F -25 C till +55 C hand crank press buttons/two hand maneuvered 14.3 kg 290 x 260 x 420 mm

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The capacity of CI 160 VA for different types of detonators. For the types of detonators that have different resistance among themselves, also the total permitted resistance is stated. Number of detonators that can be initiated by CI 160 VA.

Group 1 (type A/S/NT)

Total Maximum Number Number of Charge level of parallel detonators number of resistance per series, series per series detonators 2.5-363 1 1-145 I 1-145 125-250 2 50-100 I 100-200 365-750 1 146-300 II 146-300 252-625 2 101-250 II 202-500 627-1000 2 251-400 III

Group 1, A/S/NT detonators CI 160 VA initiates between 1 and 145 detonators in one series at charge level I. In the table onthe left, the following data have been used: Firing current < 1 A, firing impulse < 5 mWs/. Each detonators resistance is assumed to be 2.5 and the firing cable resistance 5 . The resistance of Group 1 detonators depends on the legwire length. Group 1A, U detonators When calculating the firing capacity of CI 160 VA, the following data have been used: Firing current < 1.5 A, each detonators resistance is assumed to be 3.5 , firing impulse < 16 mWs/ and a firing cable resistance of 5 . The resistance of Group 1A detonators depends on the legwire length.

Group 1 A (type U)
Charge Number Number of Total level of parallel detonators number of series per series detonators I 1 1-60 60 I 2 20-40 40-80 II 1 61-135 61-135 II 2 41-100 82-200 III 2 101-150 202-300 Maximum resistance per series, 3.5-210 70-140 213-470 143-350 353-525

Group 2 (type VA)

Charge Number level of parallel series I 1 II 1 III 1 III 2 IV 1 IV 2 IV 3 IV 4 Number of detonators per series 1-10 11-40 41-70 21-45 71-100 46-70 31-50 30-40 Total number of detonators 1-10 11-40 41-70 42-90 71-100 92-140 93-150 120-160 Maximum resistance per series, 0.6-7 7-15 15-30

Group 2, VA detonators CI 160 VA can initiate between 1 and 150 detonators connected in 1 to 3 parallel series with a firing cable resistance of 5 . If a firing cable with 2.5 resistance is used, between 120 and 160 VA detonators may be fired on highest charge level (IV) if they are divided into 4 series connected in parallel. VA detonators have the same resistance independent of legwire length. Group 3, HU/XS detonators CI 160 VA can initiate up to 50 HU/XS detonators on the highest charge level (IV). In the table on the left, the following data have been used: Firing current < 25 A, firing impulse < 2500 mWs/, The detonators resistance is assumed to 0.6 and the firing cable resistance 5 . HU/XS detonators are connected only in one series. The resistance of Group 3 detonators depends on the legwire length.

Group 3 (type HU/XS)

Charge Number level of parallel series II 1 III 1 IV 1 Number of detonators per series 1-12 12-25 25-50

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Operating instructions for blasting machine CI 160 VA

General CI 160 VA is a capacitor blasting machine for the initiation of up to 160 Group 2/VA detonators connected in 4 parallel series and firing cable resistance of 2.5. The machine is charged up with a hand cranked generator and is two hand operated which eliminates the risk of unintentional firing. The charge level is shown on a meter where the scale is divided into four ranges (I - IV). Therefore it is possible to adapt the energy -and thus the firing impulse- to the actual round even if the number of detonators are considerably fewer than the number the blasting machine can initiate. The highest charge level is used only when it is really needed. The firing current is kept as low as possible to reduce the risk of earth faults. CI 160 VA is approved by SP. For firing capacity, see tables on page 19. Note that the electric detonators in the round must be of the same type and the lowest period No. 1. Instantaneous detonator must not be used in rounds connected in series as they may break the firing circuit too early. When connecting series in parallel the series should have the same resistance value . The difference in resistance must not exceed 5%. Repair Repair of the blasting machine shall only be made by person with knowledge and experience of the electrical, mechanical and safety requirements (standards) that applies for the machine. If the machine has been opened up it is of utmost importance that the sealing is made correctly when assambling. Instruction DANGEROUS VOLTAGE! Do not touch the terminals and firing cable when firing. Max. volatage 1950 V. Firing: 1. First step: Evacuate the dangerzone. 2. Connect the firing cable to the terminals and insert the hand crank. 3. Deside, from the number of detonators in the round and the way of connection, the charge level to which the blasting machine should be charged. 4. Press the button CHARGING. 5. Turn the crank until the pointer of the instrument reaches the green field that corresponds to the charge level required for the actual round. 6. Fire the round by pressing the button FIRING while the charging button is kept depressed. 7. Remove the generator crank and disconnect the firing cable. 8. Close the lid.

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Fault finding.

Discontinuities After the round has been charged and connected it may occur that the resistance meter shows infinite resistance (it shows nothing) which means there is a break in the circuit. This can happen due to carelessly made joint, or a broken wire, or that a detonator is damaged or faulty. (If the detonator is damaged it must be replaced. Therefore it is a good practice to chech the circuit before adding the stemming. When measuring connected series it is important that the measured reading is the same as the calculated value. If the reading is higher than expected it is an indication that one or several series are not correctly connected or there is a break in one or several circuits.

A lower resistance in a round or a series than the calculated value indicates that all detonators are not connected or that the measuring current has short circuited If wires become damaged when using blast mats the damaged wires could short circuit giving rise to earth faults where the measuring or firin gcurrent could bypass some detonators. To identify breaks in a circuit a resistance meter RIM2 is used. The circuit is divided in two and each circuit is measured. The part that now is faulty is divided in two and the procedure repeated until the fault is identified and then it may be corrected.

Earth faults Earth faults are leakage currents that go to earth allowing the firing current to miss out part of the circuit. This may happen when a legwire of a detonator has been damaged during charging work, if uninsulated joints are in contact with electrically conducting rocks or when connections lay under water. Special care should be observed when using heavy covering as damaged insulation on the legwires may come in contact with the wires in the blasting mat and cause earth faults. When blasting with heavy covering it is important to measure the blasting circuit after each mat is placed. If earth fault is discovered, the search for the fault is made in the same way as search for discontinuities.

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Firing cable and connecting wire

Firing cable and connecting wire used for initiation of electric rounds must be approved by SP for use in Sweden.
The firing cable is used to connect the electric round to the blasting machine. Resistance in the firing cable should be as low as possible as high firing cable resistance will decrease the capacity of the blasting machine. The color of the firing cable should be such that it may not be mixed up with other cables on the work site. The firing cable may only be repaired by competent persons. Connecting wire is used to connect series that shall be connected in parallel and to connect the round to the firing cable. The connecting wire is a single, well insulated, wire with low resistance. If the resistance is too high it may affect the capacity of the blasting machine, reducing the numbers of detonators that may be connected in the circuit. The connecting wire should be used only once. Used connecting wire may cause misfires.

Technical data for firing cable

Type REXV Wire area mm2 2 x 1.50 Insulation thickness mm 0.8 + 1.3 Resistance per 100 m 2.5

Technical data for connecting wire

Type ELUB Wire diaInsulation Resistance meter, mm thickness, mm per 100m 0.64 0.60 5.6

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Hazards in connection with electric initiation

Thunderstorms are with no doubt the greatest risk in rock blasting due to its unpredictable nature and the high amount of energy released. A lightning strike may have a voltage of over 1.000.000 V and a current of over 100.000 A. A direct lightning strike in a worksite using electric detonators will initiate one or several detonators in the round, but even a distant lightning strike constitutes a risk due to the high current flow. When a thunderstorm is approaching, the worksite using explosives must be evacuated and guarded in the same way as when a blasting is to take place. Stray currents may occur close to electric welding operations and a safety distance of 30 m should be considered. Close to operating powerstations, stray currents occur and a non-electric firing method should be used. Powerlines may cause unintentional initiation by flashover, induced currents and through capacitive discharge. The risk may be reduced by: - placing the firing cable on dry ground. - not extending the firing cable parallel to the power line or in loops. - avoiding that firing cable, connecting wires or legwires coming into contact with the earth. - when extending the firing cable from the round to the firing point, the cable ends should be short circuited. When connecting to the blasting machine, the cable must be insulated from any conductive object. Close to powerlines and electric cables, it is always hazardous to do blasting with electric detonators. The safety distances are different in different countries due to national restrictions. In Sweden the safety distances are set according to AFS 1986:14 - Sprngarbete. Exempel:
Voltage kV Group 1A detonators Legwires of iron Distance, meter Group 1A detonators Legwires of copper Group 2 detonators

3 -6 10 20-40 70 130 220 400

5 22 40 70 85 110 180

32 70 110 190 230 230 290

0 0 0 0 6 7 17

The same safety distances as in the table are valid for buried electric cables but may never be below 0.5 m. Fr ytterligare information hnvisas till SPRNGARBETE AFS 1986:14 och drp fljande ndringstryck.

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Electric detonators may be accidentally initiated by radio transmitters or radar during the charging operation. It is mainly stationary radio transmitters that constitute a problem and then mainly the large mediumwave and long wave transmitters. For example; the minimum safety distance for the medium wave transmitter at Slvesborg is 6.800 m for Group 1A detonators and 2.500 m for Group 2 detonators. When carrying out blasting operations close to radio transmitters, it is imperative to contact the authorities (owner) to establish the safety distance. Alternatively non-electric detonators may be used. Cellular telephones may initiate a Group 1 detonator. Communication radios or other mobile radio transmitters should not be used in the close neighborhood of the worksite when electric initiation is used. For Group 1A and Group 2 detonators, transmitters with a power output over 5W are strong enough to initiate a detonator. With regard toradar installations, contact should be taken with the owner for information about the danger zone. Static electricity can be built up during sand and snow storms causing unintentional initiation. Static electricity can also build up during covering work with heavy mats under dry conditions. A person charged up with static electricity can constitute a risk tosafety, especially when using Group 1 (S) detonators. Static electricity can also build up when charging ANFO pneumatically. Therefore charging hoses must be constructed from semi conductive material and earthed. Pressure vessels for ANFO charging must also be earthed.

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Destruction of detonators.
Detonators that are damaged or too old should not be used, they must be destroyed. Small quantities of undamaged detonators may be disposed of by dropping them into a blasthole with explosive to be blasted. Cut the legwires off and place the detonators into the blasthole one by one.

Detonators may also be destroyed by taping them to or inserting them into an explosives cartridge that is to be fired. If the explosives cartridge is fired in open air, there is a risk of shrapnel being emitted along with a high air pressure wave.

If larger amounts are to be destoyed or if the detonators are damnaged, contact Dyno Nobel Sweden AB or its representative.

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Data sheet for electric detonators system

The electric detonator system is not intended for use in gassy environments as underground coal mines and other surroundings where explosive gasses may exist, nor where dust explosions may break out. The electric detonator system is approved only for use together with the products that are presented in this users manual. Use of electric detonators of other makes or system stogether with Dyno Nobels electric detonator system has not been tested and approved and, therefore cannot be recommended neither can we give any guarantees given regarding function. Mixing of different Groups/Classes in the same round must not be done.
Recommended working temperature: Recommended storage conditions: Maximum hydro static water pressure: Tensile strength, single wire: Tensile strength, joint detonator/legwires: Technical data: Group (Class*) Fusehead resistance [] Max. no firing current [A] Recommended firing current (single det.) [A] Recommended firing current (series) [A] Firing impulse [mJ/] -25C - +50C Max +50C at max RH 50% 3 bar during 7 days 4 kg at max +50C 4 kg during 2 minutes up to +50C 1 (1) 0.9-1.4 0.25 0.6 1.0 3-5 1A (2) 0.4-0.9 0.45 1.0 1.5 8-16 2/VA (3) 0.15-0.25 1.2 2.2 3.5 80-140 3 (4)** 0.04-0.09 4.0 6.0 25 1100-2500

* Class according to the new proposed European standard (prEN 13763-1) given within brackets. ** are not included in the CE certification.

The electric detonators are packed in plastic bags. Dyno Nobel guarantees the function in 2 years from date of manufacture if package is unopened. Date of manufacture is given on box as well on a tag on every single detonator (Year/month). Storage should be done in well ventilated magazines. CB 20 VA/CB 400 NT are intended for outdoor use.
Environmental durability: Working temperature: -25C to +55C Humidity: Max. 80% up to +31 linear decreasing to 50% at + 40. Dirtying degree: 2 according to IEC 60664 IP 65

For environmental and health information, see separate Materil Safety Data Sheet.

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Misfire procedure

In the case of undetonated holes being discovered after the blast, the following procedure can be used.

NOTE: Safety regulations in force must be followed.

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Place for CE-cert

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Glm ej ISO

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Dyno Nobel Sweden AB Gyttorp 713 82 Nora SWEDEN Telephone + 46 587 85000. Telefax +46 587 25535 www.dynonobel.com