ASK IMPLO

We are often asked questions such as the ones shown below, so we thought it would be helpful to share some of them with you. If you have a question not answered here, please send us an email and we will do our best to answer it. 


Is the process dangerous  ?

As long as prescribed safety precautions are followed, the process is quite safe. Working with explosives requires a level of awareness just like that required when working with any other kind of industrial tool. In the case of explosives, safety is a paramount consideration at all stages of production, and is enforced by legislation, which cultivates an environment of attentiveness and makes awareness of workplace safety a top priority. Moreover, the type of explosive ingredient used in the XECONEX^TM product is highly reliable and predictable, which makes it safe as well as functional.

How many splices can be installed at one time ?

There is really no limit to the number of splices that can be installed simultaneously. It is simply convenient to install as many splices as is desired. To date, the maximum that has been installed at one time is 50 splices. Typically, a crew will install whatever number of splices is necessary for the particular operation at hand.

Can implosive splices be installed on live lines ?

Absolutely. Non-electric detonators are used in the XECONEX^TM product, which uses a type of shock tube that is not affected by electrical fields. In the case of live-line work, special tested shock tube is used, to ensure that there is no contamination of the tube.

Does it make a lot of noise ?

Yes, but only for an instant. In most cases, the implosion sounds a bit like a shotgun being fired. In general, the noise issues are manageable. Experience shows that the concerns of local residents living in the vicinity of the project can be addressed, for the most part, by simply letting them know ahead of time. The issue is not the noise...it's being startled by it. 

Is it expensive ?

No. Although the direct cost of the components is higher than the cost of equivalent hydraulic compression components, when you factor in the labour savings, the time savings, the versatility, and the fact that no equipment is required, implosive splicing is a lot less expensive than hydraulic splicing. A recent study found that the implosive splicing process reduces the time required for dead-ending a tower by 40%. 

Will I need any special equipment ?

No equipment is needed for installation. The only equipment you will need is a storage magazine for the product, and Implo will make all the arrangements for you to obtain and maintain the proper licensed storage facilities.

Will I need special training ?

Yes. Every user of the XECONEX^TM product will need to successfully pass a specialized training program provided by Implo. This training teaches the basic essentials of handling explosives, applicable governing regulations, safe handling practices, and the efficient installation of the product. Beyond that, no special requirements are needed.

What about licensing ?

Every jurisdiction has its own licensing requirements, but most rules and regulations are fairly similar. In Canada, explosives are regulated under the Explosives Act, and administered under authority of The Explosives Regulatory Division of Natural Resources Canada, with governance over manufacture, sale, storage, importation and disposal of explosives. The Federal Transportation of Dangerous Goods Directorate oversees the transportation of explosives. The use and handling of explosives is generally under the authority of Provincial jurisdiction, and is enforced through certification of blasters and through on-the-job guidelines. Implo works closely with every customer to ensure that all licensing and approval requirements are properly obtained. Implo provides a comprehensive installation and safety training program to every user of the XECONEX^TM product. A certificate is issued to each candidate upon successful completion of the program, ensuring that workplace safety is maintained at the highest possible standards.

Will I need to apply for licenses?

Implo will do all that for you.