Bsi bs en 13763 26 2004

BRITISH STANDARD BS EN 13763 26 2004 Explosives for civil uses — Detonators and relays — Part 26 Definitions, methods and requirements for devices and accessories for reliable and safe function of det[.]

Explosives for civil

uses — Detonators and

relays —

Part 26: Definitions, methods and

requirements for devices and

accessories for reliable and safe

function of detonators and relays

The European Standard EN 13763-26:2004 has the status of a

British Standard

ICS 71.100.30

This British Standard was

published under the authority

of the Standards Policy and

The British Standards which implement international or European

publications referred to in this document may be found in the BSI Catalogue

under the section entitled “International Standards Correspondence Index”, or

by using the “Search” facility of the BSI Electronic Catalogue or of British

— aid enquirers to understand the text;

— present to the responsible international/European committee any enquiries on the interpretation, or proposals for change, and keep the

Amendments issued since publication

EUROPÄISCHE NORM

ICS 71.100.30

English version

Explosives for civil uses - Detonators and relays - Part 26:

Definitions, methods, and requirements for devices and accessories for reliable and safe function of detonators and

relays

Explosifs à usage civil - Détonateurs et relais - Partie 26:

Définitions, méthodes et exigences relatives aux dispositifs

et accessoires pour la fiabilité et la sécurité de

fonctionnement des détonateurs et relais

Explosivstoffe für zivile Zwecke - Zünder und Verzögerungselemente - Teil 26: Definitionen, Verfahren und Anforderungen für Geräte und Zubehör für die zuverlässige und sichere Funktion von Zündern und

Verzögerern

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 21 June 2004.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German) A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

C O M I T É E U R O P É E N D E N O R M A L I S A T I O N

E U R O P Ä I S C H E S K O M I T E E F Ü R N O R M U N G

Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels

Contents

page

Foreword 4

1 Scope 6

2 Normative references 6

3 Terms and definitions 7

4 General requirements for Testing 9

5 Blasting machines for initiating electric detonators 9

5.1 Requirements for blasting machines to be verified by visual examination of the machine, simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s parts list and scale drawings 9

5.2 Test for insulation resistance between exposed conducting parts 10

5.3 Electrical voltage withstand of insulated parts 11

5.4 Test to determine the output energy of the blasting machine 11

5.5 Test to determine the output voltage of a blasting machine 15

5.6 Test to check the “battery low” indication on battery operated machines 15

5.7 “Ready to fire” interlock and indicator on clockwork or capacitor blasting machines designed to produce a non-adjustable pre-determined output firing voltage 16

5.8 Test to ensure the accuracy of capacitor blasting machine’s indicators 17

5.9 Test to check that a sequential blasting machine will not fire if any of the initiating circuits connected to its output terminals are open circuit or contain too much resistance to ensure reliable initiation 18

5.10 Test to check that capacitor discharge machines include a safety discharge mechanism 19

5.11 Test to check that, when fired, the output of a clockwork driven blasting machine is not released until the generated voltage is at least 90% of the maximum intended value 20

5.12 Ignition protection of blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres 21

5.13 Test to check the output energy cut-off device in machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres of gas 21

5.14 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference tests 22

5.15 Ingress protection tests 23

5.16 Climatic and mechanical tests 23

5.17 Marking requirements for blasting machines 23

6 Blasting machine checkers 24

6.1 General 24

6.2 Requirements for blasting machines checkers to be verified by visual examination of the checker, simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s parts list and scale drawings 25

6.3 Test for insulation resistance between exposed parts 25

6.4 Electrical voltage withstand of insulated parts 26

6.5 Test to establish the checker’s ability to indicate that a blasting machine will function correctly, also to indicate abnormal deterioration in a blasting machine’s output 26

6.6 Blasting machine checkers used to check the output energy cut off time of blasting machine’s intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres 28

6.7 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference test 29

6.8 Ingress protection 29

6.9 Climatic and mechanical tests 29

7.1 Requirements for field circuit testers to be verified by visual examination of the tester,

simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s scale drawings 31

7.2 Test for insulation resistance between exposed conducting parts 31

7.3 Test for electrical voltage withstand of insulated parts 32

7.4 Tests for short circuit current limitation and maximum output energy 33

7.5 Test of the accuracy of field circuit testers 36

7.6 Intrinsic safety of field circuit testers intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres 37

7.7 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference 37

7.8 Ingress protection 38

7.9 Climatic and mechanical tests 38

7.10 Marking requirements for field circuit testers 38

8 Shot-firing cables for use with electric blasting machines 39

8.1 Types of shot firing cable 39

8.2 Electrical resistance 41

8.3 Tensile tests 42

8.4 Shot-firing cables flexural strength tests 43

8.5 Shot-firing cable abrasion test 43

8.6 Shot-firing cable insulation test 44

8.7 Shot-firing cable thermostability tests 45

8.8 Shot-firing cables electrical insulation resistance and insulation breakdown 45

8.9 Marking requirements for shot-firing cables 46

9 Connecting wires for use with electric blasting machines 46

9.1 Types of connecting wires 46

9.2 Requirements and tests 47

9.3 Marking requirements for connecting wires 48

10 Shock tube initiators 49

10.1 Requirements for shock tube initiators to be verified by visual examination of the initiator, simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s scale drawings 49

10.2 Function test for shock tube initiators 49

10.3 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference 50

10.4 Ingress protection 50

10.5 Climatic and mechanical tests 50

10.6 Marking requirements for shock tube initiators 50

Annex A (normative) Electromagnetic compatibility and interference testing 52

As described in the relevant European Standard .52

Annex B (normative) Climatic and mechanical tests 55

Bibliography 59

at the latest by February 2005

This document is one of a series of standards with the generic title Explosives for civil uses – Detonators and

relays The other parts of this series are listed below:

EN 13763-1 Part 1: Requirements

EN 13763-2 Part 2: Determination of thermal stability

EN 13763-3 Part 3: Determination of sensitiveness to impact

EN 13763-4 Part 4: Determination of resistance to abrasion of leading wires and shock tubes

EN 13763-5 Part 5: Determination of resistance to cutting damage of leading wires and shock tubes

EN 13763-6 Part 6: Determination of resistance to cracking in low temperatures of leading wires

EN 13763-7 Part 7: Determination of the mechanical strength of leading wires, shock tubes, connections,

crimps and closures

EN 13763-8 Part 8: Determination of resistance to vibration of plain detonators

EN 13763-11 Part 11: Determination of resistance to damage by dropping of detonators and relays

EN 13763-12 Part 12: Determination of resistance to hydrostatic pressure

EN 13763-13 Part 13: Determination of resistance of electric detonators against electrostatic discharge prEN 13763-15 Part 15: Determination of equivalent initiating capability

EN 13763-16 Part 16: Determination of delay accuracy

EN 13763-17 Part 17: Determination of no-fire current of electric detonators

EN 13763-18 Part 18: Determination of series firing current of electric detonators

EN 13763-19 Part 19: Determination of firing impulse of electric detonators

EN 13763-20 Part 20: Determination of total electrical resistance of electric detonators

EN 13763-21 Part 21: Determination of flash-over voltage of electric detonators

EN 13763-22 Part 22: Determination of capacitance, insulation resistance and insulation breakdown of

EN 13763-24 Part 24: Determination of the electrical non-conductivity of shock tube

EN 13763-25 Part 25: Determination of transfer capability of surface connectors, relays and coupling

accessories

CEN/TS 13763-27 Part 27: Definitions, methods and requirements for electronic initiation systems

According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom

1 Scope

1.1 This document specifies the constructional and functional requirements and methods for testing of devices and accessories needed for the reliable and safe initiation of detonators and relays, under normal working conditions It covers the following six types of equipment:

 blasting machines for initiating electric detonators;

 blasting machine checkers;

 initiating circuit field testers;

 shot firing cables for use with electric blasting machines;

 detonator connecting wires;

 shock tube initiators for non-electric systems

1.2 Equipment indented only for use indoors is excluded from the environmental testing in Annex B

1.3 Blasting machines for use with electronic detonators and magnetically coupled detonators are outside the scope of this document

NOTE This document does not meet all of the requirements of all relevant European Directives, such as the ATEX Directive 94/9/EC and the low voltage Directive 73/23/EEC For example, EN 61010 (Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use) might also be relevant for some devices and accessories described in this document

2 Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document For dated references, only the edition cited applies For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies

EN 13857-1:2003, Explosives for civil uses – Part 1: Terminology

EN 13763-4:2003, Explosives for civil uses – Detonators and relays – Part 4: Determination of resistance to

abrasion of leading wires and shock tubes

EN 13763-5, Explosives for civil uses – Detonators and relays – Part 5: Determination of resistance to cutting

damage of leading wires and shock tubes

EN 13763-6, Explosives for civil uses – Detonators and relays – Part 6: Determination of resistance to

cracking in low temperatures of leading wires

EN 13763-22:2003, Explosives for civil uses – Detonators and relays – Part 22: Determination of

capacitance, insulation resistance and insulation breakdown of leading wires

EN 55011:1998, Industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) radio-frequency equipment – Radio disturbance

characteristics – Limits and methods of measurement (CISPR 11:1997, modified)

EN 60068-2-2:1993, Basic environmental testing procedures – Part 2: Tests – Tests B: Dry heat (IEC

EN 60068-2-30:2004, Environmental testing – Part 2: Tests – Test Db and guidance: Damp heat, cyclic (12 +

12 hour cycle) (IEC 60068-2-30:1980 + A1: 1985)

EN 32, Basic environmental testing procedures – Part 2: Tests – Test Ed: Free fall (IEC

60068-2-32:1975 + A1: 1982 + A2: 1990)

EN 60068-2-64:1994, Environmental testing – Part 2: Test methods – Test Fh: Vibration, broad band random

(digital control) and guidance (IEC 60068-2-64:1993 + Corrigendum:1993)

EN 60068-2-78:2001, Environmental testing – Part 2-78: Tests – Test Cab: Damp heat, steady state (IEC

60068-2-78:2001)

EN 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code) (IEC 60529:1989)

EN 61000-4-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques – Section

2: Electrostatic discharge immunity test – Basic EMC publication (IEC 61000-4-2:1995)

EN 61000-4-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-3: Testing and measurement

techniques;Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field immunity test (IEC 61000-4-3:2002)

EN 61000-4-4, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques – Section

4: Electrical fast transient/burst immunity test – Basic EMV publication (IEC 61000-4-4:1995)

EN 61000-4-5, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques – Section

5: Surge immunity test (IEC 61000-4-5:1995)

EN 61000-4-6, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques – Section

6: Immunity to conducted disturbances, induced by radio-frequency fields (IEC 61000-4-6:1996)

EN 61000-4-11, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4: Testing and measurement techniques –

Section 11: Voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage variations immunity test (IEC 61000-4-11:1994)

EN ISO/IEC 17025, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories (ISO/IEC

17025:1999)

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 13857-1:2003 and the following apply

3.1

blasting machine

equipment intended to supply electrical energy to a circuit of electric detonators to initiate them

3.2

sequential blasting machine

blasting machine incorporating a means to control the sequence of firing of the electric detonators connected

to it

3.3

blasting machine checker

equipment specifically designed for connection to a blasting machine’s output terminals to verify that the machine’s output performance is within the operating limits specified by its manufacturer and that it is capable

of initiating the maximum number of detonators claimed

NOTE Blasting machine checkers are usually supplied by the blasting machine manufacturer and are designed for use with a particular type of machine They are designed to allow the blasting machine user to perform periodic checks to verify that the machine is functioning correctly before it is used on site The indication provided by checkers may vary from one type to another For example, some have a simple “Go/No-Go” indicator lamp and others have analogue or digital displays capable of indicating the blasting machine’s actual output energy In some E.U member state countries, the regular use of such checkers is required by national legislation as part of a users “blasting machine maintenance scheme”

field circuit tester

instrument intended for measuring, checking, or testing an initiating circuit outdoors on site, usually before an attempt is made to initiate the detonators with a blasting machine

3.6

continuity and resistance tester

type of field circuit tester, intended for measuring, checking or testing the continuity and resistance of an initiating circuit

3.7

continuity and impedance tester

type of field circuit tester, intended for measuring, checking or testing the continuity and impedance of an alternating current initiating circuit at a frequency specified by the manufacturer

3.8

circuit insulation tester

type of field circuit tester, intended to measure, check or test the electrical resistance of the insulation between the main electrical conductors in an initiating circuit and the general mass of earth

maximum electrical resistance of a particular configuration of an electrical detonator initiating circuit

NOTE The maximum initiating circuit resistance is given by the equation

where

Rt is the shot firing cable electrical resistance in Ω;

N is the total number of electric detonators;

Rs is the total resistance in Ω of one electric detonator;

n is the number of parallel circuits

3.11

shock tube initiator

equipment intended to supply a spark or a similar energy impulse to the explosive coating material inside a non electric shock tube so as to initiate it

4 General requirements for Testing

4.1

Unless otherwise specified in the test instructions, testing shall be performed within an ambient temperature range of (20 ± 5) °C, a relative humidity of (60 ± 15) % and an air pressure of (960 ± 100) hPa If these conditions cannot be achieved or maintained, the actual conditions shall be recorded in the test report

Equipment and devices intended for use outdoors shall be subjected to the environmental tests in Annex B

5 Blasting machines for initiating electric detonators

5.1 Requirements for blasting machines to be verified by visual examination of the machine, simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s parts list and scale drawings

5.1.1 Every blasting machine shall have output terminals or outlets incorporating means to securely attach

the type of shot firing cable intended to be used with them The area of electrical contact of each terminal shall

be a least twice the cross sectional area of the shot firing cable intended to be used with it The blasting machine’s output terminals shall have a barrier of insulating material between them which protrudes at least

4 mm higher than the conductive part

5.1.2 Every blasting machine shall contain a means for the operator to control the instant of firing, or control

the commencement of the firing sequence

5.1.3 Every blasting machine not designed to be carried in the hand at all times by the operator, shall

incorporate a device, e.g a key operated key-switch or removable operating handle, which prevents the machine being operated when it is removed from the machine

5.1.4 Capacitor blasting machines with a selectable initiating circuit output voltage shall include a suitable

indicator to show that the required voltage has been achieved (for example a meter or a LED indicator)

5.1.5 Blasting machines shall not produce their output energy by direct manual operation of a speed

dependent generating mechanism

5.1.6 Blasting machines intended for use in coal mines shall contain a two-pole switch (which may be

electrical, mechanical or electronic) initiated by the firing mechanism for connecting the internal energy source (e.g generator, capacitor, battery) to the output terminals

5.1.7 Blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres of gas (e.g in coal mines, or

tunnels in coal/oil bearing strata), shall not have any part of their exposed surface made of alloys containing more than 15 %, by mass in total, of aluminium, magnesium or titanium and not more than 6 %, by mass in part, of magnesium and titanium

NOTE This requirement is to prevent incendive sparking by thermite reaction when such light metals impact with rusty iron/steel

5.2 Test for insulation resistance between exposed conducting parts

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) the insulation resistance in MΩ;

b) whether or not the insulation is ≥ 2 MΩ

5.3 Electrical voltage resistance of insulated parts

Record whether or not the insulation breaks down during the test

NOTE A breakdown of insulation is usually indicated by a sudden increase in the flow of electrical current on the ammeter

5.3.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

 whether or not the insulation breaks down

5.4 Test to determine the output energy of the blasting machine

5.4.1 Requirements

The output current and output energy of blasting machines shall:

a) be capable of reliably providing enough firing energy (KRe) to initiate the maximum number of electric detonators, with the allowed resistance of shot firing cable in circuit, in all permissible configurations of initiating circuits specified by the blasting machine manufacturer;

NOTE 1 The maximum number of electric detonators in a particular initiating circuit configuration is information provided by the blasting machine manufacturer

b) include a safety factor (S), to ensure that (a) above takes account of variations in the electrical resistance

of leading wire connections made on site by the operator;

c) deliver the required amount of energy, specified in (a) above, before the first detonator in any series/parallel configuration explodes to open the electrical circuit, thereby preventing further flow of electrical current and delivery of initiating energy

NOTE 2 The duration for the delivery of energy in (c) above, is normally the time taken for the output current (I) to

reduce from its initial value at the commencement of initiation, to a value equal to or greater than the electric detonator

series firing current (I series ) and safety factor (I≥nSI series ) In the case of blasting machines intended for use in potentially

explosive atmospheres (e.g coal mines), the duration is determined by the 4 ms maximum output time of the blasting machine (see 5.13)

NOTE 3 For example, a capacitor type blasting machine with a maximum circuit resistance (Re) connected across its

output terminals needs to provide an initiating energy of at least KR e for the required duration Also an output current greater than the all fire series firing current of the particular detonators intended for use with the blasting machine Where

K is equal to, or greater than "n 2 S 2 W af“ for the required duration This is shown in Figure 1 which is a graph below, of the

blasting machine's output current (I) against time from the commencement of firing, to the time where the machine's output

current reduces to a value equal to the detonator's series firing current The energy delivered by the blasting machine during this period is derived the shaded area under the graph The energy is calculated from the integral of the current

squared over this period multiplied by the maximum initiating circuit resistance (Re)

and where:

W af is the all fire impulse of detonator claimed by the manufacturer, in J/Ω or Ws/Ω;

I is the blasting machine output current in A;

I series is the series firing current in A for the detonator;

n is the number of parallel circuits (see Table 1);

S is the safety factor (see Table 1);

R e maximum initiating circuit resistance (see definition 3.10);

K is the blasting machine firing impulse in J/Ω or Ws/Ω

Key

1 Discharge curve

2 Area used to calculate the blasting machine output energy

3 Electric detonator series firing current and safety factor (nSIseries)

4 The output energy cut-off time for blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres of

gas (see 5.13)

Figure 1 — Discharge curve

Table 1 — Safety factor

5.4.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine of each type

5.4.3 Apparatus

a) Resistances R1 + R 2 corresponding to the maximum circuit resistance Re and capable of withstanding the

highest output voltage of the blasting machine R 2 shall be low ohmic (less than 2 Ω)

n 1 2 3 ≥4

S 1,15 1,25 1,35 1,4

b) Storage oscilloscope, capable of indicating voltage (U osc) over time in order to calculate the current (as

U osc /R 2) and energy (as KRe ) of the blasting machine to an accuracy of 1% and 2% respectively with

maximum circuit resistance (Re)

5.4.4 Procedure

Connect the blasting machine to the resistances R 1 , R 2 and the oscilloscope according to Figure 2 Charge and fire the blasting machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or in accordance with the

details on the label rating plate and record the output firing impulse (K) as an oscillogram for a period long

enough to establish that:

 in the case of a capacitor blasting machine, the output current (calculated as U osc /R 2) has fallen to a value

of nSI series ; or

 in the case of other blasting machines, it provides an output current (calculated as U osc /R 2) greater than

nSI series and ensures that all of the detonators will initiate;

 in the case of blasting machine intend to use for potentially explosives atmospheres, the 4 ms cut off time has occurred

Key

1 Blasting machine

2 Resistances R1 and R2

3 Oscilloscope

Figure 2 — Blasting machine connected to resistances and oscilloscope

If the blasting machine is intended for both series and/or parallel firing, or for use with several different electric detonators, perform the test for each of the alternative configurations (see 3.10)

Repeat the tests so as to produce three oscillograms for each test, which allow the output energy of the blasting machine to be calculated Record the minimum value of output energy from the three oscillograms and whether or not it is capable of initiating the configurations of initiating circuits claimed by the blasting machine manufacturer

5.4.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

 the minimum value of output energy from the three oscillograms and whether or not it is capable of initiating the configurations of initiating circuits claimed by the blasting machine manufacturer

5.5 Test to determine the output voltage of a blasting machine

5.5.3.1 Storage oscilloscope or voltmeter capable of indicating the manufacturer’s specified output voltage

of the blasting machine to an accuracy of 1 % with maximum circuit resistance (Re)

5.5.3.2 Resistor(s) with an resistance value equal to (Re) for each configuration and of sufficient power rating for the blasting machine’s output

5.5.4 Procedure

Connect the maximum circuit resistor Re and the measuring instrument across the blasting machine's output terminals Carry out the manufacturer’s recommended firing procedure Record the highest output voltage shown on the voltmeter or oscilloscope and whether or not the output voltage is greater than 1,3 times that required to initiate the maximum number of detonators for which it is designed Repeat for each configuration

of (Re)

5.5.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

 the highest output voltage shown on the voltmeter or oscilloscope and whether or not the output voltage

is greater than 1,3 times that required to initiate the maximum number of detonators for which it is designed

5.6 Test to check the “battery low” indication on battery operated machines

5.6.1 Requirements

Battery operated blasting machines shall contain a device to indicate when the battery voltage falls below the value stipulated by the manufacturer as being the minimum to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the blasting machine

5.6.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine of each type

5.6.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

 the voltage at which the blasting machine’s indicator operates and its comparison with the value stipulated by the manufacturer as being the minimum necessary for safe and reliable operation of the blasting machine

5.7 “Ready to fire” interlock and indicator on clockwork or capacitor blasting machines designed to produce a non-adjustable pre-determined output firing voltage

5.7.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine of each type

5.7.3 Apparatus

5.7.3.1 Storage oscilloscope or voltmeter capable of indicating the manufacturer’s specified output voltage

of the blasting machine with maximum circuit resistance (Re) across its output terminals

5.7.3.2 Resistor(s) with an resistance value equal to (Re) for each configuration and of sufficient power rating for the blasting machine’s output

5.7.4 Procedure

5.7.4.1 Connect the resistor (Re) and the measuring instrument across the blasting machine’s output terminals Commence the manufacturer’s recommended firing procedure, but stop the charging process before the machine is ready to fire and attempt to fire it Record whether or not the machine produces an output voltage Repeat four times, attempting to stop the charging process as near as possible to the point where the machine is just about ready to fire Repeat for each configuration of initiating circuit

5.7.4.2 Carry out the manufacturer’s recommended firing procedure until the machine becomes fully charged

and “Ready to fire” Fire the blasting machine and record whether or not it achieves the manufacturer’s specified output voltage Repeat for each configuration of initiating circuit

5.7.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) whether or not the machine produces an output voltage when the blasting machine is not ready to fire; b) whether or not the machine produces the manufacturer’s specified output voltage when the blasting machine is ready to fire

5.8 Test to ensure the accuracy of capacitor blasting machine’s indicators

5.8.1 Requirements

Capacitor blasting machines capable of providing a range of voltage outputs, according to the initiating circuit

to be fired, shall contain a device which indicates when the machine is capable of delivering the manufacturer’s specified output voltages

5.8.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine of each type

5.8.3 Apparatus

5.8.3.1 Storage oscilloscope or voltmeter capable of indicating the manufacturer’s specified output voltages

of the blasting machine with resistance (Re) across its output terminals

5.8.3.2 Resistor(s) with an resistance value equal to (Re) for each configuration of initiating circuit and of sufficient power rating for the blasting machine’s output

5.8.4 Procedure

Connect the resistor (Re) and the measuring instrument across the blasting machine terminals Carry out the manufacturer’s recommended firing procedure until the indicator shows that the machine is charged to the first

of the manufacturer’s specified firing voltages Fire the blasting machine and record the output voltage shown

on the voltmeter or oscilloscope Repeat the test for each of the other specified firing voltages and for each configuration of initiating circuit

Also record whether or not the output voltage is equal or greater than that specified by the manufacturer for each voltage

5.8.5 Test Report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

- the output voltage for each of the manufacturer’s specified firing voltages and whether or not the recorded voltage is equal or greater than that specified by the manufacturer

5.9 Test to check that a sequential blasting machine will not fire if any of the initiating

circuits connected to its output terminals are open circuit or contain too much resistance to ensure reliable initiation

One resistor for each sequential output circuit, having a resistance value equal to the maximum initiating

circuit resistance (Re) for that sequential circuit and a power rating adequate for the maximum output power

on the blasting machine

One resistor with an ohmic rating 10 % higher that the maximum initiating circuit resistance of the blasting machine’s sequential circuit and of adequate rating for the maximum output power of the blasting machine

Repeat the procedure with the 10 % excess resistor connected in place of a different resistance (Re)

Repeat the procedure until each of the sequential output circuits has been tested with the resistance (Re) replaced by the 10 % excess resistor Record each time whether or not the machine fires

5.9.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) whether or not the blasting machine fires with a resistance equal to Re connected across each of the sequential output terminals;

b) whether or not the blasting machine fires with a resistance 10 % greater than Re connected across

each of the sequential output terminals in turn and a resistance equal to Re connected across each of

5.10 Test to check that capacitor discharge machines include a safety discharge mechanism

5.10.1 Requirements

Capacitor blasting machines shall incorporate a means to ensure that the internal capacitor discharges and does not retain a residual charge on the terminals able to initiate a detonator:

- before it is used; and

- if the machine has been charged ready to fire but has not been fired as intended;

- after the machine has been fired as intended

5.10.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine of each type

5.10.3 Apparatus

5.10.3.1 Storage oscilloscope or voltmeter capable of indicating the manufacturer’s specified output voltage

of the blasting machine with maximum circuit resistance (Re) across its output terminals

5.10.3.2 Resistor(s) with a resistance value equal to the maximum circuit resistance (Re) of initiating circuit as stated by the manufacturer and of sufficient power rating for the blasting machine’s output

5.10.4.2 Measurement of residual charge before use

Connect the oscilloscope or voltmeter across the output terminals of the blasting machine and check that no voltage capable of initiating any detonator is present at the output terminals when activating the firing mechanism

5.10.4.3 Measurement of residual charge if not fired after charging

Connect the oscilloscope or voltmeter across the output terminals of the blasting machine and charge it in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions When it indicates “Ready to Fire”, stop the charging process, and for:

 two hands operated blasting machines: release any buttons, key switches, or similar devices, which have

to be depressed or operated during the charging procedure After 5 s operate the firing mechanism Record the value of voltage on the output terminals and calculate whether or not it is sufficient to initiate any detonator

 blasting machines operated by a key, or similar device, that has to be moved from the charging to the firing position in order to fire the machine After 12 s operate the firing mechanism Record the value of voltage on the output terminals and calculate whether or not it is sufficient to initiate any detonator

5.10.4.4 Measurement of residual charge after firing

Connect the resistor (5.10.3.2) across the output terminals of the blasting machine, charge and fire it in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions Disconnect the resistor from the machine’s terminals and connect the oscilloscope or voltmeter to the terminals Record the value of voltage on the output terminals and calculate whether or not it is sufficient to initiate any detonator

5.10.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) whether or not the blasting machine has a voltage on its output terminals capable of initiating any detonator before it is charged ready for firing;

b) whether or not the blasting machine produces an output capable of initiating any detonator after it has been charged ready to fire and has not been fired as intended;

c) whether or not the blasting machine produces an output capable of initiating any detonator after it has been fired as intended

5.11 Test to check that, when fired, the output of a clockwork driven blasting machine is not released until the generated voltage is at least 90% of the maximum intended value

5.11.1 Requirements

After operation of the firing mechanism of a fully charged clockwork driven blasting machine, the electrical contacts (which connect the generator with the output terminals) shall only close to provide an output to the initiating circuit when the generator voltage reaches at least 90 % of the intended output voltage

5.11.4 Procedure

Connect the oscilloscope and resistance across the output terminals of the blasting machine Charge the clockwork spring and fire the blasting machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions From the oscillogram record the point where the contacts close as voltage (V2) and the maximum voltage (V1) Record (V2) as a percentage of (V1)

5.11.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

- whether or not the switch closes before the generator output voltage reaches 90 % of the output voltage (V1) of the blasting machine

5.12 Ignition protection of blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive

atmospheres

Blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (e.g in a coal mine or tunnel in oil or coal bearing strata) shall not be an ignition source for the explosive atmosphere

NOTE Equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres has to comply with ATEX Directive 94/9/EC

A test report and certificate of conformity will be issued by the notified body appointed for the purpose of this directive

5.13 Test to check the output energy cut-off device in machines intended for use in

potentially explosive atmospheres of gas

5.13.1 Requirements

Blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres of gas (e.g in coal mines or tunnels

in coal or oil bearing strata) shall:

 incorporate a device which terminates the output firing pulse of the machine, or otherwise makes it safe against the ignition of the explosive gas concerned, after a period not exceeding 4 ms after the firing pulse has commenced; and

 produce an output pulse of sufficient energy before the cut-off time occurs, to initiate the maximum number of detonators in a configuration for which it is designed;

 not produce an output energy greater than three times that required to initiate the maximum number of detonators in a configuration for which it is designed during that period

5.13.2 Test pieces

One blasting machine of each type

5.13.3 Apparatus

5.13.3.1 Storage oscilloscope with a time base suitable for recording the output voltage/current of the

exploder/blasting machine over a 10 ms period

5.13.3.2 Resistor corresponding to the maximum initiating circuit resistance (Re) and capable of withstanding the blasting machine’s output voltage

5.13.4 Procedure

The procedure for testing shall be the same as that described in 5.4 but the output pulse time period shall be measured to establish that it does not exceed the cut-off time

Connect the blasting machine's terminals to the storage oscilloscope with a load impedance across the

terminals equivalent to the maximum initiating circuit resistance (Re) Operate/Fire the blasting machine in

accordance with the manufacturer's instructions Calculate and record:

 the output energy of the blasting machine over a 4 ms period and whether or not it is sufficient to initiate the maximum number of detonators claimed by the manufacturer; and

 whether or not the output firing pulse is terminated after a period not greater than 4 ms;

 whether or not the output energy delivered before the cut-off time occurs is greater than three times that required to initiate the maximum number of detonators for which the blasting machine is designed

5.13.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) whether or not the blasting machine deliver enough energy to initiate the maximum number of detonators claimed by the manufacturer before the cut-off time occurred;

b) whether or not the output firing pulse is terminated after a period not greater than 4 ms;

c) whether or not the output energy delivered before the cut-off time occurs is greater than three times that required to initiate the maximum number of detonators for which the blasting machine is designed

5.14 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference tests

Blasting machines shall be subjected to the electromagnetic compatibility and interference tests in Annex A The pass/fail requirements are given below

5.14.1 After being subjected to the surge immunity test according to A 4.2 with a peak voltage of 4 kV, the

blasting machine shall either:

 continue to function and meet the requirements of 5.4, by being able to reliably initiate the largest number

of detonators in a circuit having a maximum initiating circuit resistance (Re) and the most onerous circuit

configuration; or

 fail so that it is unusable; or

 develop faults, which would prevent it from causing the unintended initiation of an initiating circuit of detonators

5.14.2 After being subjected to each of the tests according to A 4.3 to A 4.7 the blasting machine shall

continue to function and meet the requirements of 5.4, by being able to reliably initiate the largest number of

detonators in a circuit having the maximum initiating resistance (Re) and the most onerous circuit configuration

5.14.3 When tested according to A 4.8 the blasting machine shall conform to class A according to EN

55011:1998

5.14.4 During testing according to A 4.2 to A 4.7 no unintended firing is allowed

5.15 Ingress protection tests

The outer enclosure of the blasting machine shall prevent the ingress of dust and splashing liquids to its interior parts, by providing a degree of protection of at least IP44, as described in EN 60529 If the blasting machine has a lid, it shall be tested with the lid open or removed Any parts of the blasting machine outside the outer enclosure, that become electrically charged during its operation (e.g Terminals for connecting wires/cables), shall provide a degree of protection of at least IP20 to prevent finger contact with them

5.16 Climatic and mechanical tests

Blasting machines shall be subjected to the climatic and mechanical tests in Annex B The relevant

performance test are described in Annex B

5.17 Marking requirements for blasting machines

5.17.1 Requirement

The following information shall be marked on the blasting machine If it is not possible to mark this information

on the equipment, the manufacturer shall refer to a manual which is part of the equipment:

g) type of detonator and circuit mode;

h) in the case of blasting machines for series circuits: the critical resistance of the detonator type named under g); additionally, in the case of capacitor blasting machines with controllable output voltage: the critical-resistance values for the range of output available;

i) in the case of blasting machines for parallel circuits: the maximum number of detonators and the configurations allowed;

j) in the case of dynamo-electric blasting machines: output voltage and output current; in the case of capacitor blasting machines: output voltage and capacitance;

k) type approval number;

l) in the case of blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, any additional marking required by the ATEX Directive 94/9 EC;

m) instructions for using the equipment;

n) highest and lowest operating temperatures These details may be omitted if the equipment is suitable for use over the entire temperature range from – 25 °C to + 55 °C

5.17.2 Test pieces

Either - one complete blasting machine of each type having the same construction, dimensions and

arrangement with its label attached; or

- a drawing of the machines label showing the details to be put on it

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

- whether or not the blasting machine label/manufacturer instruction manual contains the information required by 5.17.1 a) to n)

6 Blasting machine checkers

6.1 General

NOTE These tests are intended for analogue and digital instruments designed for the sole purpose of routinely checking the output performance of electric blasting machines They are not intended to be used for laboratory type instruments, such as storage oscilloscopes, voltmeters, ammeters, etc or blasting machine testing equipment which uses dummy detonators, or fuseheads, to simulate an electric detonator initiating circuit

6.2 Requirements for blasting machines checkers to be verified by visual examination of the checker, simple measurement and reference to the manufacturer’s parts list and scale drawings

6.2.1 All checkers shall have indications which are clearly visible under the operating conditions to which

the checker is intended to be used (e.g lights and illuminated displays will be more easily seen than meters

on checkers used in poorly lit environments)

6.2.2 Battery-powered equipment shall incorporate battery monitoring features that indicate if the battery

voltage is too low for the checker to function as intended by the manufacturer

6.2.3 If protective features such as protective resistance’s or isolating transformers are employed, they shall

be so designed and constructed that any faults that occur in the equipment cannot partly or wholly render

them ineffective

6.3 Test for insulation resistance between exposed parts

6.3.1 Requirements

The insulation resistance between the input terminals and any conductive parts of the external case shall be

at least 2 MΩ when tested at 500 V DC

6.3.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine checker of each type

6.3.3 Apparatus

Electrical insulation test meter - capable of applying 500 V with a tolerance of ± 10 V and measuring insulation

resistance over a range 0 MΩ to 3 MΩ, within a tolerance of ± 0,1 MΩ

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) the insulation resistance between the terminals and any conductive parts of the casing of the equipment in MΩ;

b) whether or not the insulation is ≥2 MΩ

6.4 Electrical voltage resistance of insulated parts

6.4.1 Requirements

The insulated parts of the blasting machine checker shall be capable of withstanding twice the peak output voltage of the blasting machine it is designed to check, or 1 000 V AC RMS whichever is the greater, for a period of 1 min without flash-over or breakdown of the insulation

6.4.4 Procedure

Short circuit the terminals of the blasting machine checker and apply the test voltage between the terminals and any conductive parts of the enclosure or casing for a time period of 1 min Record whether or not the insulation breaks down during the test

NOTE A breakdown of insulation is usually indicated by a sudden increase in the flow of electrical current

6.4.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

- whether or not the insulation between the terminals and any conductive parts of the enclosure or casing breaks down

6.5 Test to establish the checker’s ability to indicate that a blasting machine will function correctly, also to indicate abnormal deterioration in a blasting machine’s output

6.5.1 Requirements

Blasting machine checkers shall be able to:

a) indicate that a blasting machine’s output energy is within the operating limits specified by its manufacturer when supplied as new (See 3.3 for the definition of a blasting machine checker and the note under 3.3 explaining the typical usage of a blasting machine output checker);

b) indicate that a blasting machine is not within the operation limits specified by the manufacturer when

6.5.2 Test pieces

One complete blasting machine checker of each type

6.5.3 Apparatus

6.5.3.1 For capacitor blasting machine checkers

a) One capacitor discharge blasting machine of each type, having a performance complying with the manufacturer’s specification when supplied as new

b) One modified capacitor discharge blasting machine of each type, with its charging voltage reduced to either a minimum voltage specified by the manufacturer or to 92 % of that described in (a), which ever

is the greater

c) One modified capacitor discharge blasting machine of each type with its firing capacitor replaced by one having a minimum capacitance specified by the manufacturer or of 85 % of that in (a), which ever

is the greater

6.5.3.2 For dynamo/generator blasting machines checkers

a) A blasting machine of each type, having a performance complying with the manufacturer‘s specification, when supplied as new

b) Switch and non-inductive resistor, arranged in series, so that when connected across the output terminals of the blasting machine and the switch is closed, the blasting machine’s output current is shunted through the non-inductive resistor and reduced to a value specified by the manufacturer or

80 %, which ever is the greater

6.5.4 Procedure

6.5.4.1 For capacitor blasting machine checkers

Connect the input terminals of the blasting machine checker to the output terminals of the blasting machine described in 6.4.3.1(a) Fire the blasting machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s firing instructions Record the indication given on the blasting machine checker and whether or not the output energy of the blasting machine meets the minimum specified by the blasting machine manufacturer Repeat four more times Repeat the firing procedure using the checker connected to the output terminals of the modified blasting machine described in 6.5.3.1(b) Record the indication given on the blasting machine checker

Repeat the firing procedure using the checker connected to the output terminals of the modified blasting machine described in 6.5.3.1(c) Record the indication given on the blasting machine checker

6.5.4.2 For Dynamo/generator blasting machine checkers

Connect the switch and non-inductive resistor across the blasting machine’s output terminals Connect the blasting machine’s output terminals to the input terminals of the blasting machine checker

Open the switch so that the full output current of the blasting machine is delivered into the input terminals of the checker Fire the blasting machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s firing instructions Record the

indication given on the blasting machine checker and whether or not the output energy of the blasting machine meets the minimum specified by the blasting machine manufacturer Repeat the test four more times

Close the switch so that when the blasting machine is fired, the blasting machine’s output current will be diverted through the shunt non-inductive resistor and only partially delivered (see 6.5.3.2 b)) to the blasting machine checker’s input terminals Fire the blasting machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s firing instructions Record the indication given on the blasting machine checker Repeat the test four more times

6.5.5 Test report

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

a) whether or not, in all five tests on each type of unmodified blasting machine (or blasting machine without the shunt resistor in circuit), the blasting machine checker indicated that the blasting machine’s output was within the operating limits specified by the manufacturer

b) whether or not, in all five tests on each type of modified blasting machine (or blasting machine with the shunt resistor in circuit), the blasting machine checker indicated that the blasting machine’s output was not within the operating limits necessary for safe function, in the following circumstances:

in the case of capacitor discharge blasting machines:

 when the blasting machine’s output voltage was reduced to either a minimum voltage specified

by the manufacturer or to 92 % of the nominal operating voltage, which ever was the greater;

 when the blasting machine’s firing capacitor was replaced by one having a minimum capacitance specified by the manufacturer or of 85 % of the nominal operating capacitance, which ever is the greater

in the case of dynamo-electric output blasting machines:

 when the blasting machine’s output current is shunted through the non-inductive resistor and reduced to a value specified by the manufacturer or 80 %, which ever is the greater;

6.6 Blasting machine checkers used to check the output energy cut off time of blasting machine’s intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres

6.6.1 Requirements

Blasting machine checkers designed to check the output energy cut off time of blasting machines intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres shall be able to measure the duration of the output of the blasting machine and indicate if the period of the output pulse exceeds the maximum permitted time of 4 ms

6.6.3.2 Pulse generator, capable of producing pulses equivalent to the output of the blasting machine

intended to be checked by the checker, but with variable time outputs from 2 ms to 6 ms

The test report shall conform to EN ISO/IEC 17025 In addition, the following information shall be given:

- whether or not the checker could measure the duration of the output for each of the time periods tested

6.7 Electromagnetic compatibility and interference test

Blasting machine checkers shall be subjected to the electromagnetic compatibility and interference tests in Annex A The pass/fail requirements are given below

6.7.1 After being subjected to each of the tests according to Annex A, the blasting machine checker shall

continue to function and meet the requirements of 6.5, by being able to reliably indicate a blasting machine’s output energy

For capacitor discharge machines, only the comparison with reduced charging voltage is used for verification purposes

During testing according to A.4.3 to A.4.4, a temporary loss of function is allowed, providing the loss is self recoverable, or can be restored by operation of the blasting machine checkers controls

6.7.2 When tested according to A.4.8 the blasting machine checker shall conform to class A according to

EN 55011:1998

6.8 Ingress protection

The outer enclosure of the blasting machine checker shall prevent the ingress of dust and splashing liquids to its interior parts, by providing a degree of protection of at least IP44, as described in EN 60529 (There are no requirements for terminals on the outside of the enclosure)

If the blasting machine checker has a lid, it shall be tested with the lid open or removed

6.9 Climatic and mechanical tests

Blasting machine checkers shall be subjected to the climatic and mechanical tests in Annex B The relevant performance test are described in Annex B

NOTE Blasting machine checkers are usually of two distinct types, those intended for use outdoors and those kept in

a designated room or building where the blasting machine can be checked for correct operation and performance Routine checking instruments intended for use indoors only do not need to be subjected to the environmental tests described in Annex B They should however be constructed in accordance with good engineering practices and be suitable for the environment in which they are intended to be used