Chemring unveils new timer-based explosives initiator

Chemring Technology has introduced new timer-based programmable explosives initiator (PED) Mk2 to support missions including general combat demolitions, ammunition disposal and underwater mine clearance.

The new product is a successor to the company’s proven PED100 timer-based programmable explosives initiator system and weighs a third of the weight of its predecessor.

Featuring integrated programmer to enable the timer to be set in the field to allow greater operational flexibility, the PED Mk2 has a countdown range from one minute to 30 days.

Besides an ability to survive immersion to a depth of 30 meters, the initiator also features greater firing energy (1.5 joules) and a higher countdown resolution of one second facilitating precise synchronisation of multiple detonations.

Chemring Technology Solutions general manager Mike Luedicke said PED Mk2 has been developed to enhance mission efficiency by minimising training requirements, while delivering a more flexible and precise timing system.

”As it does not require a separate programming device, it allows the user, such as military engineers, to rapidly set custom time delays at the point of deployment," Luedicke added.

The timer is undetectable due to PED Mk2’s small size and near silent emissions profile, but even if discovered, removal of the tear-off keypad prevents re-programming or repurposing of the device.

The initiator is scheduled to be displayed during the 2013 Defence Security and Equipment International (DSEi) exhibition, which will be held from 10 to 13 September in ExCeL, London , UK.