Figure 2-1. Electric Firing System for Demolition Materials.

TM 43-0002-31

c. Placing Charges.

(1) Prepare one or more charges of explosive

(such as TNT blocks, together with necessary detonat-

When using demolition or fire as a method

ing cord), depending upon size and amount of equip-

of destruction for chemically contami-

ment to be destroyed. (Refer to TM 9-1375-213-12.)

nated equipment (alarms, filters, etc),

(2) Place explosive charges on equipment as

personnel should mask and move upwind

specified in Chapter 3.

of the site. If unable to move upwind of the

(3) Connect all charges (if more than one) with

site, personnel must wear protective

detonating cord for simultaneous detonation. Use dual

clothing and masks.

detonating cord ring main lines and branch lines if re-

quired by the tactical situation. (Refer to FM 5-25.)

d. Firing Systems and Priming Charges. Follow

operating procedures in TM 9-1375-213-12, using

Protect time blasting fuses and nonelec-

either electric or nonelectric firing systems and methods

tric blasting caps from moisture to insure

for priming charges. Prime each charge as it is placed.

functioning.

Use dual priming to reduce misfires. Select demolition

materials for priming charges based upon type of firing

a. Mechanical Destruction. Smash as many vital

system.

components as possible before placing charges on

(1) For electric firing, use electric blasting caps,

equipment to be destroyed.

electrical wiring, and blasting machines, blasting gal-

b. Site Preparation.

vanometers, or equivalent sources of electricity (fig 2-1).

(1) Establish surface danger zone of at least

Perform prefiring tests. Do not connect wires to electri-

200 meters and up to 500 meters as specified in

cal source until ready to fire charges.

AR 385-63 and FM 5-25, depending upon size of

(2) For nonelectric firing, use nonelectric

charge, tactical situation, and terrain.

blasting caps crimped to time blasting fuses (fig 2-2).

(2) If time permits and equipment is small, dig

Always check fuse burning time before crimping on cap.

hole for equipment to be destroyed.

(3) Place equipment on ground or in hole be-

fore placing charges.

Figure 2-1. Electric Firing System for Demolition Materials.

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