Shocktube-Based Blast Initiator

U.K.-based ASL now offers the Beethoven SparkMaster, a shocktube-based initiation system that employs a concept new to the industry whereby the necessary energy is delivered to the firing shocktube by an inexpensive, disposable, single-use sparker. Three “traffic-light” LEDs indicate status: Red warns of a used or missing sparker, Orange shows the unit is charging, and Green advises that the SparkMaster is ready for firing. For firing, the male end of an unused sparker is pushed firmly into the Sparkmaster and, using the integrated knife, the end of the shocktube is trimmed and inserted into the open end of the sparker. Firing is a two-handed operation: the blaster inserts the magnetic safety key and holds it in place with one hand; when SparkMaster gives the green light, the firing button is pressed with the other hand. The sparker then injects a spark into the shocktube to initiate the blast. The SparkMaster cannot be operated without the magnetic safety key and firing can be aborted simply by releasing the key—which is automatically ejected by a spring-loaded mechanism. The main capacitors will discharge internally, returning the SparkMaster to a safe condition. Additionally, the initiator will not function without the insertion of a fresh sparker. At 700 g, the solid-state, ergonomically designed unit is easily portable and the orange case is robust and highly visible. SparkMaster can be operated without being removed from its weather- proof carrying case which includes a pouch for spare sparkers. SparkMaster’s charge is provided by a set of replaceable batteries with a spark life of some 500 firings. The LED warns when the batteries should be renewed.

www.aslgroup.uk.com

As featured in Womp 09 Vol 01 - www.womp-int.com