Skip to main content

Safer blasting

Three years of development and field trials have resulted in the proven SparkMaster system from ASL. This sophisticated initiator is said to meet the needs of explosive engineers requiring a reliable shocktube-based system. The SparkMaster has been designed to suit an array of site conditions and can provide reliability even in challenging environments. The solid-state, ergonomically-designed unit is portable, robust, highly-visible and weighs just 700grammes. It can be operated while still inside its weath
July 4, 2012 Read time: 1 min
Three years of development and field trials have resulted in the proven SparkMaster system from 6107 ASL. This sophisticated initiator is said to meet the needs of explosive engineers requiring a reliable shocktube-based system. The SparkMaster has been designed to suit an array of site conditions and can provide reliability even in challenging environments. The solid-state, ergonomically-designed unit is portable, robust, highly-visible and weighs just 700grammes. It can be operated while still inside its weather-proof carrying case, and its charge is provided by a set of replaceable batteries with a life of around 500 firings. An LED warns when the batteries should be renewed. For firing, the blaster inserts the magnetic safety key and holds it in place with one hand. When the unit displays a green light, the blaster presses the firing button with the other hand and the unit sends a spark into the shocktube to initiate the blast.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Advanced driving simulator developed by TRL
    July 4, 2018
    In the UK, TRL is introducing a sophisticated driving simulator that will help with developing transport infrastructure as well as research into driving. This advanced system is intended to assist in driving future transport policy, customer safety and road network performance. The new simulator can be used for behavioural research into driving and can be used as a validation tool. The complete simulator package features three main systems as it consists of the new full size DigiCar, a portable version (Mi
  • Major advances in compaction technology
    February 9, 2012
    Both soil and asphalt compaction technologies will see key advances in 2010, writes Mike Woof. With each phase of regulations coming into force for engine and noise emissions, as well as operator vibration, manufacturers have been forced to improve, upgrade and update their compaction machines.
  • Innovations introduced to optimise milling
    September 28, 2015
    New developments for the milling machine sector should help optimise performance, as well as increase health and safety standards for site personnel Advances in the milling machine market generally focus on new models being available or developments to drums and cutters. However some rather different developments are taking place that could well deliver long-term improvements for health and safety as well as the quality of work carried out, optimising milling operations. Earlier this year, new guideli
  • Engine manufacturers meeting emissions deadlines
    February 10, 2012
    Engine manufacturers have had to jump through regulatory hoops in recent years, meeting requirements for diesels with ever cleaner exhaust emissions. When this programme was first proposed, many believed the final aims could not be achieved. However on January 1st 2011, the Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emissions regulations will come into force in North America and Europe and all the major diesel manufacturers will have suitable products at the ready. The Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emissions regulations require