Field-Assembled Initiator with Segmented Explosive Cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transporting initiators containing explosive materials is regulated, increasing logistical complexity and cost, and there is a need for a method to initiate reactions in energetic materials without assembling the initiator on-site.
Innovation Solution
The initiator is assembled from separate tubular assemblies, where a penetrator with a bridge wire is inserted into a high explosive cartridge, allowing for on-site formation and detonation initiation using electricity, avoiding pre-assembly transport restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If initiators containing explosive materials are transported to on-site location, then detonation capability is achieved, but regulatory restrictions and logistical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The initiator is divided into two separate assemblies: a first tubular assembly containing the bridge wire and chassis, and a second tubular assembly containing the high explosive cartridge. These assemblies are transported separately to the wellsite and then coupled together on-site, avoiding the need to transport pre-assembled explosive initiators while maintaining full detonation capability when combined.
2Adaptability or versatility
If initiators are assembled on-site from separate components, then transportation restrictions are avoided, but assembly complexity and time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge wire is inserted through the center of the high explosive cartridge, with the penetrator containing the bridge wire being received inside the cartridge assembly. This nested configuration allows for simple coupling where the penetrator is inserted through the cartridge, bringing the bridge wire into close contact with the high explosive without complex assembly procedures.
3Power
If bridge wire is brought into close contact with high explosive, then detonation efficiency is improved, but sensitivity to accidental detonation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge wire and high explosive are kept separate in different tubular assemblies during transport and handling. Only when coupled together on-site does the bridge wire come into close contact with the high explosive through the penetrator, ensuring optimal detonation efficiency while minimizing accidental detonation risk during transportation and storage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method allows for efficient and compliant transportation of initiator components, enabling on-site assembly and detonation initiation, reducing regulatory burdens and logistical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The detonation of the high explosive is optionally initiated by energizing the bridge wire with a designated amount of electricity that causes the bridge wire to fracture or produce heat radiance
Implementation Method 2
communicating a detonation of the high explosive to the energetic material
Data Source
AI summary
A reaction is instigated in an energetic material with an initiator having a chassis assembly and a cartridge. The chassis assembly and cartridge are transportable separate from one another and assembled on site. The chassis assembly includes a tubular penetrator with a beveled sharpened tip and a bridge wire mounted within the penetrator. The cartridge includes a sleeve and an amount of explosive inside the sleeve. When the initiator is assembled the penetrator inserts inside the sleeve and puts the bridge wire into direct contact with the explosive. The bridge wire is in electrical communication with a current source, and when selectively energized creates an explosion in the explosive to launch the reaction in the energetic material.