In mining, construction, demolition, and many other industries, blasting operations are used to break up rocks, dig tunnels, or demolish structures. In order for these operations to be carried out safely and effectively, special cables are needed that ignite the explosives and control the blasting system. These cables are called "blast cables". You will effectively meet your needs in this field with the blasting cables you will supply with the difference of Ülkü cable. In this text, we will take a close look at what blast cables are, their types, characteristics, safety requirements, and uses.
The Importance of Blast Cables
Blasting cables are one of the most critical components of a blasting system. They initiate the explosion by transmitting an electric current to the blasting detonators. Therefore, their reliability, durability and safety are of utmost importance. Improperly selected or damaged cables can lead to blast failure, premature explosions, or other hazardous situations.
Types of Blast Cables
The main types of cables used in blasting operations are:
- Jumper Wires: These are short and flexible cables used to connect blasting capsules to the main line. They are usually made of single-stranded or stranded copper conductor and covered with PVC or similar insulating materials.
- Main Wires: These are longer and thicker cables that run from the blasting machine to the blasting area and connect multiple blasting capsules. They must have a higher current-carrying capacity.
- Transmission Lines (Lead Wires): These are the cables that connect the blasting machine to the main line. They are usually thicker in section and more durable.
- Shock Tubes: These are thin plastic tubes used in systems that initiate an explosion with a shock wave instead of electricity. An explosive substance is contained in them, and when ignited, they create a shock wave. It has some advantages over electric blasting systems (e.g., not being affected by interference).
Features of Blast Cables
Blast cables are specially designed to comply with harsh conditions and safety requirements:
- High Conductivity: They must be able to conduct enough current to reliably fire blasting capsules.
- Durability: They must be resistant to harsh terrain conditions, abrasion, water, and chemicals.
- Flexibility: They should be flexible enough so that they can be laid and bent easily.
- Insulation: They should be covered with high-quality insulating materials to avoid the risk of electric shock.
- Ignition Resistance: They must be able to withstand the high temperatures and pressure generated during the explosion.
- Color Coding: Color coding can be used to easily distinguish between different cables and connections.
Security Requirements
Blasting operations can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, strict safety rules regarding the use of blast cables must be observed:
- Cables should be checked regularly and damaged cables should not be used.
- Cables must be laid and connected correctly.
- Unauthorized persons must be prevented from entering the blasting area.
- Safety distance must be maintained during the blasting process.
- Precautions must be taken to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.
- Precautions should be taken against the danger of lightning.
Uses of Blast Cables
Blast cables are used in a variety of industries:
- Mining: Open pit mining and underground mining
- Construction: Road construction, tunneling, foundation digging
- Demolition: Demolition of buildings and other structures
- Career Management: Quarries and marble quarries
- Geophysical Surveys: Seismic surveys
Standards for Cables Used in Blasting Operations
There are various national and international standards regarding blasting cables and blasting operations. These standards contain information on the properties of cables, test methods and safe usage conditions. For example:
- TS EN 13763: Explosives for civilian use - Blasting detonators and relays
- ICOP (International Civil Explosives Code): International Civil Explosives Code
Result
Blasting cables are vital for the safe and effective performance of controlled blasting operations. Proper cable selection, proper laying, and stringent safety measures are critical factors for the success and safety of blasting operations. Therefore, anyone working in blasting operations needs to be familiar with the features, use, and safety requirements of these cables. As Ülkü Kablo, we are constantly improving the technologies we use to produce the products to be used in such a sensitive area with the highest quality.
