S A F E T Y P R E C A U T I O N S

Copyright: 200 4 – All rights reserved.

In its capacity as an explosive item the ST System may constitute a potential safety hazard if handled incorrectly. It is recommended that rules and regulations governing operations with the ST System be established and observed. The systems are to be handled by trained personnel with expertise in the relevant field of operations. These safety precautions are intended to provide guidance in this respect and relate primarily to use of the system in peacetime. • Work involving priming devices and explosives shall be planned and organized so as to

prevent injury or damage to personnel and surroundings.

• The main responsibility for such a task shall devolve upon one person. Among other things, this person shall ensure that all participants receive necessary information concerning the preconditions for the task and that explosives are handled and stored in a correct and safe manner.

• If the main person responsible does not herself/himself participate in the work task (s)he shall appoint a deputy who thus also bears responsibility for the practical performance of the task.

• During handling and transport of explosives only those personnel who are essential for the performance of the work involved shall be present.

• Any explosive temporarily stored at a work site shall be protected against mechanical influences, heat, etc. that could conceivably cause unintentional detonation.

• Different classes and types of dangerous goods shall be stored and transported separately.

• To avoid the risk of unintentional injury and/or damage to surroundings a triggering method that enables full control over the instant of detonation is recommended. The firing system shall initiate the charge reliably and immediately upon triggering.

• When triggering exposed firing systems (detonators and surface connectors) ensure that they cannot cause injury or damage to property. As a guideline there should be a safety distance of at least 20 metres

• Damaged, undetonated detonators are safety hazards and shall be handled with the utmost care. If possible, they should be neutralised in situ by being blasted to destruction by an explosive charge. Damaged, undetonated detonators shall under no circumstances be put together with other explosive goods in any way.

NORABEL IGNITION SYSTEMS AB • Box 154, SE-711 23 Lindesberg, Sweden Telephone: +46 581 87 225 • Fax: +46 581 149 44

e-mail: info@norabel.com • www.norabel.com

UUUSSSEEERRR MMMAAANNNUUUAAALLL

SSSHHHOOOCCCKKK TTTUUUBBBEEE SSSYYYSSSTTTEEEMMM™™™

S A F E T Y P R E C A U T I O N S

Copyright: 2001 – All rights reserved. BMM/4/0101

In its capacity as an explosive item the ST System may constitute a potential safety hazard if handled incorrectly. It is recommended that rules and regulations governing operations with the ST System be established and observed. The systems are to be handled by trained personnel with expertise in the relevant field of operations. These safety precautions are intended to provide guidance in this respect and relate primarily to use of the system in peacetime. • Work involving priming devices and explosives shall be planned and organized so as to

prevent injury or damage to personnel and surroundings.

• The main responsibility for such a task shall devolve upon one person. Among other things, this person shall ensure that all participants receive necessary information concerning the preconditions for the task and that explosives are handled and stored in a correct and safe manner.

• If the main person responsible does not herself/himself participate in the work task (s)he shall appoint a deputy who thus also bears responsibility for the practical performance of the task.

• During handling and transport of explosives only those personnel who are essential for the performance of the work involved shall be present.

• Any explosive temporarily stored at a work site shall be protected against mechanical influences, heat, etc. that could conceivably cause unintentional detonation.

• Different classes and types of dangerous goods shall be stored and transported separately.

• To avoid the risk of unintentional injury and/or damage to surroundings a triggering method that enables full control over the instant of detonation is recommended. The firing system shall initiate the charge reliably and immediately upon triggering.

• When triggering exposed firing systems (detonators and surface connectors) ensure that they cannot cause injury or damage to property. As a guideline there should be a safety distance of at least 20 metres

• Damaged, undetonated detonators are safety hazards and shall be handled with the utmost care. If possible, they should be neutralised in situ by being blasted to destruction by an explosive charge. Damaged, undetonated detonators shall under no circumstances be put together with other explosive goods in any way.

NORABEL IGNITION SYSTEMS AB • Box 154, SE-711 23 Lindesberg, Sweden Telephone: +46 581 87 225 • Fax: +46 581 149 44

e-mail: info@norabel.com • www.norabel.com

UUUSSSEEERRR MMMAAANNNUUUAAALLL

SSSHHHOOOCCCKKK TTTUUUBBBEEE SSSYYYSSSTTTEEEMMM™™™

C O N T E N T S

INTRODUCTION 3 PRODUCTS

ST Starter 4 ST Detonator 5 Grip Switch 5 Connector 5 OPERATION

Arming 6 Firing 7 Disarming 8 PREPARATION OF CONNECTOR UNIT

Connection of shock tubes 9 Interconnection of ST System 10 FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS & FEATURES 11 PACKAGING

Inner pack (bag) 12 Outer pack (box) 12 Unit load (pallet) 13 DATA

Dimensions and weights (standard versions) 14 Description of components 14 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 16

NORABEL IGNITION SYSTEMS AB • Box 154, SE-711 23 Lindesberg, Sweden Telephone: +46 581 87 225 • Fax: +46 581 149 44

e-mail: info@norabel.com • www.norabel.com

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I N T R O D U C T I O N

The purpose of this manual is to provide a general description of the SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ and its operation. SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ is the international trade name for a series of non-electric firing units developed by Norabel Ignition Systems AB. The SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ originates from a technology that is well-established on the commercial market in the mining and rock-blasting industries. The products incorporated into the SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ family are the result of further development focused on demanding needs and requirements. The SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ family matches most types of explosive charges used in various kinds of blasting operations. It performs reliable initiation of EOD charges, cutting charges, demolition charges etc. The system is also well-suited for initiation of salvoes in fortification works and other similar rock-blasting operations.

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D A T A

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS (approximate values) DESCRIPTION OF COMPONENTS (ST STARTER 100 m) 1. Shock tube Non-electric signal conductor of low energy type (non-detonating casing), green colour.

The shock tube transmits a noiseless signal from (initiated by) the primer unit to the detonator.

2. Grip switch Firing mechanism of single-use type for manually firing. The grip switch activates the

percussion cap in the primer unit via a spring loaded striker. 3. Connector Plastic connector unit for connection of up to 8 interconnected signal conductors. Connections can by made in series or in parallel. 4. Primer unit A lacquer sealed percussion cap containing less than 0.05 g of explosives is fixed in

the unit. Activated by the grip switch the percussion cap generates a start impulse to the shock tube. The primer unit interconnects grip switch and shock tube.

5. Detonator The detonator contains approx. 1 g of explosives. Casing is of aluminium. The detonator transforms the signal from the shock tube into a detonation which in turn sets off the explosive charge. 6. Bobbin The bobbin constitutes a magazine for the shock tube. The bobbin also

accommodates a grip switch, a connector unit and two handles. 7. Handles The handles facilitate unwinding and winding of the shock tube. One of the handles

also protects the detonator during transport and storage.

Product type Dimensions [mm] Weight of explosive [g] per Weight [kg] per (standard version) diam width unit box pallet unit box pallet

ST Starter 30 m appr. 220 appr. 30 0.002 0.020 0.48 0.3 4.0 120 ST Starter 65 m 210 48 0.002 0.014 0.34 0.7 6.0 170 ST Starter 100 m 240 68 0.002 0.010 0.24 1.0 6.3 175 ST Starter 320 m 200 160 0.002 0.004 0.10 2.3 5.6 160 ST Detonator 7.8 m appr. 220 appr. 5 0.001 0.040 0.96 0.07 3.8 115

P R O D U C T S

ST Starter The basic unit in the Shock Tube System™ family is designated as the ST Starter. The ST Starter comprises a primer unit and a firing mechanism. Thus the ST Starter is fully independent and ready at any time for use in any kind of blasting operation. All necessary components are attached to the unit. The ST Starter consists of a shock tube of predetermined length with a percussion cap unit at one end and a detonator at the other end. Normally the ST Starter comes wound on a bobbin. The bobbin versions - ranging from 65 metres up to 320 metres - also include a connector unit for optional branching of several ST units and two handles for facilitating unwinding and rewinding of the shock tube.

ST Starter 320 m

ST Starter 100 m

ST Starter 65 m

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2

1

4

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FRONT

I N T R O D U C T I O N

The purpose of this manual is to provide a general description of the SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ and its operation. SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ is the international trade name for a series of non-electric firing units developed by Norabel Ignition Systems AB. The SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ originates from a technology that is well-established on the commercial market in the mining and rock-blasting industries. The products incorporated into the SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ family are the result of further development focused on demanding needs and requirements. The SHOCK TUBE SYSTEM™ family matches most types of explosive charges used in various kinds of blasting operations. It performs reliable initiation of EOD charges, cutting charges, demolition charges etc. The system is also well-suited for initiation of salvoes in fortification works and other similar rock-blasting operations.

3

D A T A

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS (approximate values) DESCRIPTION OF COMPONENTS (ST STARTER 100 m) 1. Shock tube Non-electric signal conductor of low energy type (non-detonating casing), green colour.

The shock tube transmits a noiseless signal from (initiated by) the primer unit to the detonator.

2. Grip switch Firing mechanism of single-use type for manually firing. The grip switch activates the

percussion cap in the primer unit via a spring loaded striker. 3. Connector Plastic connector unit for connection of up to 8 interconnected signal conductors. Connections can by made in series or in parallel. 4. Primer unit A lacquer sealed percussion cap containing less than 0.05 g of explosives is fixed in

the unit. Activated by the grip switch the percussion cap generates a start impulse to the shock tube. The primer unit interconnects grip switch and shock tube.

5. Detonator The detonator contains approx. 1 g of explosives. Casing is of aluminium. The detonator transforms the signal from the shock tube into a detonation which in turn sets off the explosive charge. 6. Bobbin The bobbin constitutes a magazine for the shock tube. The bobbin also

accommodates a grip switch, a connector unit and two handles. 7. Handles The handles facilitate unwinding and winding of the shock tube. One of the handles

also protects the detonator during transport and storage.

Product type Dimensions [mm] Weight of explosive [g] per Weight [kg] per (standard version) diam width unit box pallet unit box pallet

ST Starter 30 m appr. 220 appr. 30 0.002 0.020 0.48 0.3 4.0 120 ST Starter 65 m 210 48 0.002 0.014 0.34 0.7 6.0 170 ST Starter 100 m 240 68 0.002 0.010 0.24 1.0 6.3 175 ST Starter 320 m 200 160 0.002 0.004 0.10 2.3 5.6 160 ST Detonator 7.8 m appr. 220 appr. 5 0.001 0.040 0.96 0.07 3.8 115

P R O D U C T S

ST Starter The basic unit in the Shock Tube System™ family is designated as the ST Starter. The ST Starter comprises a primer unit and a firing mechanism. Thus the ST Starter is fully independent and ready at any time for use in any kind of blasting operation. All necessary components are attached to the unit. The ST Starter consists of a shock tube of predetermined length with a percussion cap unit at one end and a detonator at the other end. Normally the ST Starter comes wound on a bobbin. The bobbin versions - ranging from 65 metres up to 320 metres - also include a connector unit for optional branching of several ST units and two handles for facilitating unwinding and rewinding of the shock tube.

ST Starter 320 m

ST Starter 100 m

ST Starter 65 m

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CONNECTION IN PARALLELL

CONNECTION IN SERIES

UNIT LOAD/PALLET The boxes are stacked on pallets of EUR-standard. A full unit load/ pallet contains 24 boxes strapped to the pallet. Each unit load is marked with following information: - Goods type - Quantity - UN number - International technical denomination - Weight of explosive - Gross weight - Dangerous goods

XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXX-XX-XXX-XXXX 168 ST/PCS 24 LÅDOR/BOXES ST STARTER 65 m LOT XX-XX-XX UN 0360

SPRÄNGKAPSLAR, ICKE-ELEKTRISKA, APTERADE DETONATOR ASSEMBLIES, NON-ELECTRIC

EXPL VIKT/WT EXPL 0,336 KG BRUTTOVIKT/GR WT 169 KG

1100

1200

800

Unit load label

To minimise the risk that splinters will cause damage to the shock tube(s) - any excess length should run through the connector unit before the knot is tied. If necessary the shock tube may be bent double when a connection is fixed. INTERCONNECTION OF ST SYSTEM All units of the Shock Tube System™ family can be interconnected in series or in parallel. Interconnections are made using the Connector.

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P A C K A G I N G

Contents label

Caution! • The signal in the shock tube needs

a certain acceleration distance in order to achieve enough energy to initiate a detonator. Consequently, the shock tube length between interconnected ST units must be at least 0.6 m.

• All ST systems are moisture-

proofed. Consequently, the signal conductor must not be cut or subjected to any other kind of mechanical damage as this may lead to malfunction. If a signal conductor is damaged the system must be replaced.

• The connector unit contains a

detonator that will emit fragments upon detonation. Since such fragments may cause damage to the immediate surroundings a safety distance of not less than 20 metres must be considered. To avoid unnecessary damage to adjacent signal conductors and to other sensitive materiel in the vicinity the connector unit may be covered with mud, gravel etc.

INNER PACK The ST systems are packed in sealed aluminium foil bags. Provided that the bag is kept intact the products can be stored for several years under normal storage conditions. Each bag contains between 1 and 10 units depending on type of system contained. Each inner pack is marked with type and quantity. OUTER PACK The standard outer pack consists of a type-approved (ADR) cardboard box. Box sizes are matched to the size of the inner pack and to the size of the pallet (EUR). Between 2 and 100 units are packed in each box depending on type of system contained. The boxes are marked in accordance with international regulations concerning the marking of dangerous goods and contents. Labels are affixed stating: - Goods type - Quantity - UN number - International technical denomination - Weight of explosive (NEQ) - Gross weight - Dangerous goods Dangerous goods label

7 ST/PCS ST STARTER 65 m LOT XX-XX-XX UN 0360

SPRÄNGKAPSLAR, ICKE-ELEKTRISKA, APTERADE DETONATOR ASSEMBLIES, NON-ELECTRIC

EXPL VIKT/WT EXPL 0,014 KG BRUTTOVIKT/GR WT 6,0 KG NETTOVIKT/NT WT 5,0 KG

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FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS & FEATURES

The systems are inspected in compliance against requirements stipulated in the technical specification. Prior to despatch each lot undergoes a factory acceptance inspection. Furthermore, each new system type undergoes type testing which, in addition to functional requirements, also includes specified safety requirements. The most important functional requirements and other features of the system are stated below. - Resistance to moisture (tropical test) ....... : 36 cycles (+40°C/+60°C, 98% RH) ................................................................. over a consecutive period of 6 days - Functionality in ambient temperatures ..... : -46°C to +63°C - Initiation capability of detonator (witness plate test – 5 mm lead plate)....... : Min. hole diameter: 7 mm - Tensile strength (complete system) ......... : Min. 80 N SHOCK TUBE TYPE 3L

- Rupture limit (20°C) .................................. : Min. 250 N - Yield limit (20°C)....................................... : Min. 150 N - Elongation at break (0° to +70°C) ............ : Min. 200% - Resistance to influence of diesel oil ......... : Approx. 2 weeks - Resistance to influence of UV radiation ..... : Approx. 6 weeks - Nominal external diameter ....................... : 3 mm - Propagation velocity of signal .................. : Min. 1,900 m/s DETONATOR

- Diameter ................................................... : 6.9 / 7.6 mm - Delay detonators (available on request) .... : up to 6,000 ms PRIMER UNIT

- Connector thread ..................................... : M12 GRIP SWITCH

- Manually operated firing mechanism of single-use type - One (1) or two (2) safety mechanisms - Non-tensioned cocking spring - One-handed operation - Connector thread in grip switch ............... : M12 (M10)

ST Detonator 7.8 m

ST Starters of short lengths - ranging from a couple of metres up to 30 metres - are supplied on a coil. Specially designed versions can be supplied on request. ST Detonator The ST Detonator comprises a shock tube of predetermined length supplied on a coil. In this case the shock tube has only the detonator attached at one end as a distinct from the ST Starter. The ST Detonator is available in lengths from 1.2 m. ST Detonators constitute a complement to the ST Starter for situations where more than one charge will be set off at the same time. The Grip Switch is a mechanical firing mechanism made mainly of plastic. The Grip Switch is designed for single-use operation. The Connector is made entirely of plastic. The Connector enables several ST units to be connected to each other in series or in parallel. As standard the Grip Switch and the Connector constitute integral parts of the ST Starter unit.

ST Starter 30 m

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P R E P A R A T I O N O F C O N N E C T O R U N I T

1. Insert the detonator through the lock-ring and further into the detonator seat inside the connector. 2. Press the lock-ring onto the snap-on position on the connector. The detonator is now fixedcorrectly and forms a stable unit with the connector.

O P E R A T I O N

BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR ARMING ST STARTER 1. Lay out the system on the ground. It is best to begin with the detonator end. Check that the shock tube runs out freely to avoid any knots or kinks at a later stage. 2. It is recommended to anchor the shock tube to a fixed object close to the charge. Leave sufficient extra length to enable the detonator to reach the detonator seat in the charge.

3. Fix the detonator to the charge.

CONNECTION OF SHOCK TUBES

When the preparation of the connector unit is ready the shock tubes are inserted. There is space for up to 8 shock tubes to be branched from each connector. A strong and reliable connection is achieved by simply tying a knot to each shock tube inserted.

6

FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS & FEATURES

The systems are inspected in compliance against requirements stipulated in the technical specification. Prior to despatch each lot undergoes a factory acceptance inspection. Furthermore, each new system type undergoes type testing which, in addition to functional requirements, also includes specified safety requirements. The most important functional requirements and other features of the system are stated below. - Resistance to moisture (tropical test) ....... : 36 cycles (+40°C/+60°C, 98% RH) ................................................................. over a consecutive period of 6 days - Functionality in ambient temperatures ..... : -46°C to +63°C - Initiation capability of detonator (witness plate test – 5 mm lead plate)....... : Min. hole diameter: 7 mm - Tensile strength (complete system) ......... : Min. 80 N SHOCK TUBE TYPE 3L

- Rupture limit (20°C) .................................. : Min. 250 N - Yield limit (20°C)....................................... : Min. 150 N - Elongation at break (0° to +70°C) ............ : Min. 200% - Resistance to influence of diesel oil ......... : Approx. 2 weeks - Resistance to influence of UV radiation ..... : Approx. 6 weeks - Nominal external diameter ....................... : 3 mm - Propagation velocity of signal .................. : Min. 1,900 m/s DETONATOR

- Diameter ................................................... : 6.9 / 7.6 mm - Delay detonators (available on request) .... : up to 6,000 ms PRIMER UNIT

- Connector thread ..................................... : M12 GRIP SWITCH

- Manually operated firing mechanism of single-use type - One (1) or two (2) safety mechanisms - Non-tensioned cocking spring - One-handed operation - Connector thread in grip switch ............... : M12 (M10)

ST Detonator 7.8 m

ST Starters of short lengths - ranging from a couple of metres up to 30 metres - are supplied on a coil. Specially designed versions can be supplied on request. ST Detonator The ST Detonator comprises a shock tube of predetermined length supplied on a coil. In this case the shock tube has only the detonator attached at one end as a distinct from the ST Starter. The ST Detonator is available in lengths from 1.2 m. ST Detonators constitute a complement to the ST Starter for situations where more than one charge will be set off at the same time. The Grip Switch is a mechanical firing mechanism made mainly of plastic. The Grip Switch is designed for single-use operation. The Connector is made entirely of plastic. The Connector enables several ST units to be connected to each other in series or in parallel. As standard the Grip Switch and the Connector constitute integral parts of the ST Starter unit.

ST Starter 30 m

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CONNECTION IN PARALLELL

CONNECTION IN SERIES

UNIT LOAD/PALLET The boxes are stacked on pallets of EUR-standard. A full unit load/ pallet contains 24 boxes strapped to the pallet. Each unit load is marked with following information: - Goods type - Quantity - UN number - International technical denomination - Weight of explosive - Gross weight - Dangerous goods

XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXX-XX-XXX-XXXX 168 ST/PCS 24 LÅDOR/BOXES ST STARTER 65 m LOT XX-XX-XX UN 0360

SPRÄNGKAPSLAR, ICKE-ELEKTRISKA, APTERADE DETONATOR ASSEMBLIES, NON-ELECTRIC

EXPL VIKT/WT EXPL 0,336 KG BRUTTOVIKT/GR WT 169 KG

1100

1200

800

Unit load label

To minimise the risk that splinters will cause damage to the shock tube(s) - any excess length should run through the connector unit before the knot is tied. If necessary the shock tube may be bent double when a connection is fixed. INTERCONNECTION OF ST SYSTEM All units of the Shock Tube System™ family can be interconnected in series or in parallel. Interconnections are made using the Connector.

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A

B

2. Hold the grip switch with one hand. The cocking spring is tensioned manually by depressing the trigger about 3⁄4 of its travel until a cocking stop is felt. Approx. 5 mm travel will then remain. The system is now activated and ready to be fired (A). 4. To fire the system press the trigger firmly past the cocking stop until the trigger bottoms (B). DISARMING THE ST SYSTEM The firing system can be disarmed, disconnected and returned to transport and storage mode for field use. The system may then be used at a new site. However, such systems should be used within a limited time. Disarm and disconnect the system as follows:

1. Disarm the grip switch by refitting the safety ring and safety pin.

2. Unscrew the grip switch from the primer unit.

3. Wind the shock tube onto the bobbin.

4. Remove the detonator from the explosive charge.

5. Release the shock tube from the anchoring point.

6. Replace the grip switch (and bobbin handles) in their storage locations.

4. Unwind the shock tube when moving towards the firing position. 5. Safely in firing position the grip switch is attached to the system. Make sure that the threadings are perfectly clean. The grip switch must be fully screwed onto the primer unit. FIRING When all preparations have been done and all personnel are safe behind cover firing may be performed in compliance with the following basic procedures: 1. Arm the grip switch by removing the safety ring and safety pin.

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A

B

2. Hold the grip switch with one hand. The cocking spring is tensioned manually by depressing the trigger about 3⁄4 of its travel until a cocking stop is felt. Approx. 5 mm travel will then remain. The system is now activated and ready to be fired (A). 4. To fire the system press the trigger firmly past the cocking stop until the trigger bottoms (B). DISARMING THE ST SYSTEM The firing system can be disarmed, disconnected and returned to transport and storage mode for field use. The system may then be used at a new site. However, such systems should be used within a limited time. Disarm and disconnect the system as follows:

1. Disarm the grip switch by refitting the safety ring and safety pin.

2. Unscrew the grip switch from the primer unit.

3. Remove the detonator from the explosive charge.

Wind the shock tube onto the bobbin. 4.

5. Release the shock tube from the anchoring point.

6. Replace the grip switch (and bobbin handles) in their storage locations.

4. Unwind the shock tube when moving towards the firing position. 5. Safely in firing position the grip switch is attached to the system. Make sure that the threadings are perfectly clean. The grip switch must be fully screwed onto the primer unit. FIRING When all preparations have been done and all personnel are safe behind cover firing may be performed in compliance with the following basic procedures: 1. Arm the grip switch by removing the safety ring and safety pin.

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P R E P A R A T I O N O F C O N N E C T O R U N I T

1. Insert the detonator through the lock-ring and further into the detonator seat inside the connector. 2. Press the lock-ring onto the snap-on position on the connector. The detonator is now fixedcorrectly and forms a stable unit with the connector.

O P E R A T I O N

BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR ARMING ST STARTER 1. Lay out the system on the ground. It is best to begin with the detonator end. Check that the shock tube runs out freely to avoid any knots or kinks at a later stage. 2. It is recommended to anchor the shock tube to a fixed object close to the charge. Leave sufficient extra length to enable the detonator to reach the detonator seat in the charge. 3. Fix the detonator to the charge. If the ST unit includes a screw collar, screw the collar over the detonator. It is essential that the detonator reaches the bottom in the detonator seat.

CONNECTION OF SHOCK TUBES

When the preparation of the connector unit is ready the shock tubes are inserted. There is space for up to 8 shock tubes to be branched from each connector. A strong and reliable connection is achieved by simply tying a knot to each shock tube inserted.

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