Abstract: A primer for an explosive charge which is to be initiated by a fuse cord is sensitized by a loose charge of a high explosive, this high explosive being contained in a rigid, impermeable container which is so shaped that it at least partially surrounds the fuse cord. The container is of plastics or metal and preferably comprises at least one elongated concave surface which mates with and is supported by at least one metal rod which protrudes from the base of a mould in which the primer will be cast and which establishes a channel for a fusecord.The primers of this invention have more sensitivity and robustness than known primers, and require fusecords of lower charge weight.

Abstract: A less sensitive explosive, 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one. The compound 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (NTO) has a crystal density of 1.93 g/cm.sup.3 and calculated detonation velocity and pressure equivalent to those of RDX. It can be prepared in high yield from inexpensive starting materials in a safe synthesis. Results from initial small-scale sensitivity tests indicate that NTO is less sensitive than RDX and HMX in all respects. A 4.13 cm diameter, unconfined plate-dent test at 92% of crystal density gave the detonation pressure predicted for NTO by the BKW calculation.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for producing charges for explosive jointing of large-diameter pipes such as pipelines. According to the invention, such charges are formed in that a strip-shaped flat explosive is wound and joined together to form a circular ring of even thickness consisting of a plurality of closely abutting layers.

Abstract: An explosive separation system for making a clean cut in composite laminate aterials in which a flexible linear shaped charge is maintained in a molded holder of a low-density, energy-absorbing material. The flexible linear shaped charge is molded in the holder when the holder itself is molded to ensure correct alignment of the charge and a correct standoff distance from the surface to be cut. The holder has sufficient volume to dissipate reflected explosive forces to reduce secondary damage to the cut edges and to areas adjacent to target area.

Abstract: Disclosed is a low cost bulk explosive storage container constructed in such a way that simple on-site modifications, specifically the attachment of a metal liner and the addition of a fluid will transform the carrying container into a directed energy demolition device.

Abstract: A device for mechanically welding a tube to a tube sheet having holes into which the tube is placed. A detonator is provided for detonating explosives for generating gas at a high pressure. A barrel having a perforated section is attached to the detonator for receiving the generated gas. An external disc-shaped stop surrounds the barrel for contacting an area of the tube sheet surrounding the hole. A disc-shaped internal stop is positioned on the barrel at the end of the perforated section opposite the external stop so that gas is mostly confined inside the tube between the external and internal stops.

Abstract: A method of combining explosive compositions prepared from commercially available nitric acid and a common industrial solvent is disclosed herein which exhibits exceedingly high blasting strengths. The compositions are relatively more stable than conventional shaped charge explosives such as HMX or RDX and far less expensive. The compositions are transported separately to the blasting site where the compositions are combined in ambient temperature for immediate use.

Abstract: Detonation apparatus constituting a novel detonation amplifier is disclosed herein having a container enclosing a quantity of combined liquid compositions into which a detonation chamber is submerged. A pyrotechnic charge is suspended with the chamber which is surrounded by the liquid explosive composition. Apertures are provided in the wall of the chamber for permitting the liquid composition to enter the chamber. Activation of the pyrotechnic charge detonates the liquid composition within the chamber which, in turn, detonates the bulk quantity of the liquid composition in the container. In another form, the detonation amplifier includes a shaped charge producing a shock wave reflected back from a baffle to detonate the bulk quantity of the liquid composition in the container.

Abstract: A cylindrical housing for a shock-augmenting charge is provided with axially extending grooves in its outer wall to enhance its radial detonation capability. When used in a cylindrical warhead for augmenting detonation of a main charge of insensitive high explosive, full detonative output is enabled and in addition, a flatter detonation wavefront is generated within the main charge, thereby reducing the need for supplementary waveform shapers.

Abstract: Non-incendive explosive charge for use in flammable atmospheres includes a layer of damp salt as quenching material surrounding a charge enclosed in an inner housing. An outer housing is strong and pliable, being formed of reinforced rubbery material, to resist rough handling yet to be sufficiently pliable to conform to irregular boulder surfaces. The outer housing is pancake-shaped to provide increased contact area and stability. The relatively flat shape further permits insertion of the charge in crevices between boulders.

Abstract: A method of reducing the velocity gradient of a shaped charge liner is diosed. A particular construction for the liner is also disclosed which has the same effect. The velocity gradient and jet-tip velocity are both reduced by forming a plurality of relatively small diameter holes in the charge liner before the liner is assembled with the remaining components of an explosive device.

Abstract: A barrier breaching device that is designed primarily for opening holes in interior walls of buildings uses detonating fuse for explosive force. The fuse acts as the ribs or spokes of an umbrella-like device that may be opened up to form a cone. The cone is placed against the wall so that detonating fuse that rings the base of the device and which is ignited by the spoke-like fuses serves to cut a circular hole in the wall.

Abstract: The invention provides a container for explosive material comprising a rigid tube (10 FIGS. 1-4, 18 FIGS. 5-8) a closure (13,14; 19,20) at each end of the tube, said tube having a recess (12; 21) in its wall between its ends to receive a detonating cartridge.

Abstract: A booster container is used to hold a primary charge useful for detonating cap insensitive explosives, such as ammonium nitrate. The container includes a pair of cord tunnels which may be used in various combinations to detonate the primary charge with either an electric blasting cap or a detonating cord. The container is also useful for holding non-electric blasting caps and transfer tubes in place as the booster container is lowered into the bore hole.

Abstract: An explosive device is disclosed which comprises a cylindrical casing filled with explosive charge. The charge is covered at one or both of its sides by a fragmentable lining which is fragmented by explosion of the explosive charge and movement of the shock wave in an effective direction. A recess is provided in the explosive charge which contains an inner booster charge surrounded by an outer annular booster charge. The inner and outer booster charges may be separated by a thin wall with openings in the wall communicating with spaced in the recess on sides of the outer booster charge. A damming lining covers a part of the outer booster charge and is spaced from the outer booster charge to form the spaces.

Abstract: An unlined Munroe Effect device for breaching structures in urban terrain. he device is constructed as an unlined, linear, shaped explosive charge which directs an explosive jet into the structure. The shaped charge is formed with a honeycombed substrate of metal in which the substrate interstices are filled with and the substrate is covered by an explosive material. The substrate is embedded in the explosive material. The explosive material and substrate, prior to curing of the explosive material, are formed into an unlined, semi-cylindrical shape to create the explosive jet or Munroe Effect. The device is initiated or detonated with a booster charge.

Abstract: In a blow-molded, cylindrical plastic container for explosives adapted for end-to-end coupling with like containers, an improvement is provided in the sealing of the container at the exposed explosives end. The improvement comprises a section of reduced diameter in the portion of the container immediately beyond the point of connection of a like container. The section of reduced diameter is adapted to receive therein a resilient plastic, disc-like sealing member in fluid-tight engagement. The seal prevents contamination of the explosive yet yields upon the pressure exerted by an adjacent, connected container.