Demolition cables are specialised wires that are used to safely initiate explosive charges in controlled demolition projects, for example, mining, quarrying, controlled structural demolition, special effects, and more. However, there is so much more to demolition cables than just causing an explosion. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into what a demolition cable is, cable types, electrical properties, and how they’re used.
What Is Demolition Cable?
Simply put, a demolition cable is a multi-conductor cable is an insulated twisted pair that is designed to connect detonators to firing systems. Unlike many other cables, they don’t have a sheath, armour, or markings.
Detonator cables, or detonator firing cables, are used in explosive demolition and detonation tasks. They work by transmitting electrical signals from the firing device to the explosive charges in order to trigger the detonation process.
How Demolition Cables Are Used
Demolition cables are widely used across different industries, each having its own regulations and safety requirements.
Mining & Quarrying
In the mining and quarrying industries, demolition cables are used to control blasting operations, which are essential for breaking up rock and mineral deposits above and below ground.
Structural Demolition
Demolition cables safely transmit the signal to ignite charges in controlled civil demolitions, such as large-scale demolition of bridges, towers, and other concrete structures.
Special Effects & Pyrotechnics
Demolition cables are used in special effects and pyrotechnics to transmit a safe, low-voltage signal to initiate a small controlled explosion. They’re commonly used in film, live events, and theatre work.
Testing & Research
Laboratories and other research facilities commonly use demolition cables for the safe and reliable initiation of explosives in real-world demolition projects. For example, in experimental structural analysis or validating digital simulation models.
Types of Demolition Cable
Not all demolition cables are built the same, and each type serves a different purpose. Some may be tailored for durability, whereas others are built for a specific type of environment. Understanding each of these types of demolition cable helps professionals evaluate the right cable for their application.
Demolition Cable 0.75mm
0.75mm demolition cables are designed for detonator firing circuits and are configured with two twisted conductors in brown and black and no external sheath. They are manufactured in the UK with a Certificate of Conformity, meeting DEF 61-12 PT 17/1 standards. This cable requires an export licence due to its classification.
Demolition Cable 0.5mm
The 0.5mm demolition cable is specifically designed for detonator firing circuits with two twisted conductors in brown and blue or brown and black and, like the 0.75, has no external sheath. This cable is also produced in the UK with a Certificate of Conformity. The 0.5mm cable does not require an export licence.
Demolition Cable 0.22mm
The 0.22mm cable is a lightweight option of demolition cable that is designed for detonator firing circuits. It is made up of two twisted conductors in brown and black with no external sheath and does not require an export licence.
Electrical & Mechanical Properties
Due to their high-stakes nature, demolition cables must meet strict requirements as their electrical stability influences reliability.
Electrical Properties
- Conductor material – most demolition cables use copper (for low, stable resistance) or tinned copper (for corrosion resistance in wet or marine environments).
- Conductor size – each cable has set resistance-per-unit-length values so engineers can see whether they meet project specifications.
- Insulation – insulation must resist moisture, dust, and abrasion, maintain dielectric stability in a range of temperatures, and prevent leakage currents or breakdown.
Mechanical Properties
- Strength and abrasion resistance – the outer jacket on demolition cables protects against dragging, compression by equipment, and impact from debris.
- Temperature – cables are rated for safe operation across different temperature ratings for use in extreme environments, as different temperatures require specific materials.
- UV and chemical resistance – outdoor and underground environments expose cables to UV radiation, oils, and chemicals, which can degrade the cable materials. Specialised jackets are created to maintain integrity during exposure to these elements.
Looking for High-Quality Demolition Cables?
At K. Lacey, we provide a range of demolition cables engineered from non-conductive materials to ensure maximum safety, whatever the application. Our demolition cables are weather, abrasion, and temperature resistant and are built to withstand extreme conditions. Whether you’re in the process of planning your project or want more information on how we can help, get in touch with us today.