Abstract: A hand-operated portable tool to detonate blasting charges on a workpiece, including a tool body; a front unit, supported by the body and accommodating an explosive cartridge, for engagement with the workpiece; and a rear unit, supported by the body, including an igniting mechanism for the cartridge. The front unit is movable into a retracted position, with the rear unit being releasable only in the retracted position of the front unit. The tool body includes a first handle to release the igniting mechanism, a security mechanism to render the igniting mechanism inoperative, and a second handle and trigger to render the security mechanism temporarily inoperative, thereby rendering operative the igniting mechanism.

Abstract: A thin sheet of corrosion resistant metal is welded to a plate of structural metal by explosion welding by means of an apparatus including an elongated blasting charge holder for accommodating blasting charges, an associated elongate support, and means for pressing the thin corrosion resistant metal sheet and the structural metal plate between the blasting charge holder and the support while detonating the blasting charge.