Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fuse containing an explosive: A detonating fuse is a cord or tube filled with a core of high explosive, designed to transmit a detonation wave to initiate an explosive charge. It functions as a linear explosive, exploding along its entire length rather than burning slowly like a safety fuse.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The demolition team carefully laid the detonating fuse to connect all the charges.
  • A detonating fuse ensures a near-instantaneous and reliable initiation of the main explosive.

Advanced Usage

• "Primacord": This is a common brand name for a type of detonating fuse, often used generically.
  • They used Primacord as the detonating fuse for the quarry blast.

Variants and Related Words

• Det cord: A common abbreviation for "detonating cord," which is synonymous with detonating fuse.

  • Ensure the det cord is securely connected to the blasting cap.

• Safety fuse: A contrasting type of fuse that burns at a controlled, slow rate to transmit fire to an explosive. It is not a detonating fuse.

  • Unlike a detonating fuse, a safety fuse burns slowly to give the miner time to retreat.

Synonyms

• Explosive cord: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its linear explosive nature.
• Detonating cord: A fully equivalent term.

Related Phrases

• To hook up a detonating fuse: To connect the fuse to an initiator or explosive charge.
  • The final step was to hook up the detonating fuse to the booster.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. a fuse containing an explosive