4.9. PYROTECHNIC TORCH / THERMITE LANCE
Image 1. Using a pyrotechnic torch / thermite lance on a main charge containing HME
4.9.1. INTRODUCTION A pyrotechnic torch, or thermite lance, is an incendiary tool that can be used to dispose of IED main charges. It is intended to achieve a low order burn but can also be used to deliberately cause a high order detonation depending on how it is applied by the IEDD operator. It is also possible to combine this technique with other tools. For example, during final disposal of heavy cased main charges it is possible that a two-stage process could be used with the casing being explosively or mechanically opened and then the pyrotechnic / thermite tool used against the main fill.
ׁ HINT. For large, thin cased main charges when the intention is a low order burn the IEDD operator may consider using multiple pyrotechnic torches / thermite lances.
ׁ WARNING. If multiple pyrotechnic torches / thermite lances are used then they MUST be wired in series so that all or none will ignite.
IEDD techniques and procedures
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