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Blasting Bedrock to Create the Foundation

Bob meets with blasting contractor Alan Dyke and takes a close look at the drilling rig as Alan and his crew prepare the site for blasting. The drill uses a button bit with carbide buttons set in steel. The holes are drilled five to six feet deep, down to the bedrock. With the final hole drilled, Alan shows Bob the emulsion stick, explosive chemicals with aluminum added for weight and a mercury cap that explodes when electrified. With the explosive placed into the hole and covered with peastone, Alan gives Bob the honor of detonating the blast. More information