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Bridgewire

Definition

The high-resistance wire element within an electric detonator, typically nichrome or platinum-iridium, that converts firing current into heat to ignite the pyrotechnic primer. Bridgewire alloy composition is a forensic identifier for detonator manufacturer and product line.

Related terms

ATF Explosives Industry Programs Branch (EIPB)
The US federal unit within the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives responsible for licensing, compliance inspection, and database management for...
Deflagration-to-Detonation Transition (DDT)
The acceleration of a deflagrating burn front to supersonic detonation velocity, triggered by confinement. Relevant to understanding how improvised devices using low...
Detonating Cord
A cord with a PETN explosive core (5-40 g/m) that detonates at approximately 6,400 m/s when initiated. Used to connect multiple charges...
Electric Detonator (Blasting Cap)
A metal-shell initiating device containing a bridgewire assembly, primary explosive (lead azide), and output charge (PETN or RDX). Firing current through the...
ENFSI Monopoly Programme
The European Network of Forensic Science Institutes working group on explosives and gunshot residue analysis, which coordinates inter-laboratory method harmonisation and cross-border...
Nonel Shock-Tube System
A non-electric initiating system using a hollow plastic tube coated internally with approximately 18 mg/m of HMX. A low-energy shock propagates through...
PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation)
The Indian regulatory authority under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry that administers the Explosive Substances Act 1908 and subordinate rules, including...
Safety Fuse
A black powder-cored initiating cord burning at approximately 8-10 mm/s. Used for controlled delay ignition; forensic signature is black powder residue at...
Unique Identifier (UI)
A mandatory traceable code on each commercial detonator sold in the UK and EU post-2013, required by the Explosives for Civil Use...

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