Blast Chambers
Blast-resistant chambers for controlled blast testing and other high-risk operations. They are built from high-strength steel construction with shock-absorbing anchorage and contain pressure, shock waves and fragments, with insulation and gas tightness for personnel safety and equipment integrity.
How it works
A blast chamber is an enclosure designed to contain the pressure, shock wave and fragments of a controlled explosion so that people, equipment and surroundings are protected. High-strength steel construction, often with composite supports, carries the blast load through shock-absorbing anchors into the foundation. Gas-tight and fire-tight seals, insulation and, where needed, HVAC and emergency egress make the interior usable. The design depends on the charge size, the pressure and impulse, and how often the chamber is used.
Typical applications
- Industrial blast-testing laboratories
- Explosive production facilities
- Military and defence test areas
- Safety rooms in the energy and petrochemical sectors
- Disposal of munitions or suspect packages
Design features
- Design adapted to the blast loads
- High-strength steel with composite supports
- Gas-tight and fire-tight sealing systems
- HVAC and emergency egress can be integrated
- Large interior volume and modular panel options
- Documentation and testing to the applicable ASTM, EN and ISO requirements, agreed per project
Project advantages
- Engineering solutions specific to your organisation
- Design and size options based on the risk analysis
- Modular manufacture and fast installation
- Long service life and low maintenance cost
- Aesthetic and functional fit with the facility
Standards and guidance commonly referenced for this product type
These are general references. Compliance and test reports for a specific product are provided per project.
Can a blast chamber contain any explosion?
No. A chamber is designed for a stated maximum charge, pressure, impulse and fragment threat. Exceeding the design charge can damage it, so the design basis (charge mass, type of explosive, frequency of use) must be defined before the design starts and the operating limits must then be followed.
Can a blast chamber be delivered in modules?
Yes, modular panel options exist for larger interior volumes and for faster installation. The joints between modules must carry the blast load like the rest of the shell, so they are part of the engineering design and not just an assembly detail.
Technical specifications, protection levels and test reports are provided per project. Contact our engineers for details.
Planning a protected facility?
Tell us about your site, threat scenario and timeline. Our engineers will respond with the right solution.