Certain risks require almost self-evident to explosionresistant walls. Consider, for example, (government) institutions with political significance, police stations, embassies, military complexes, cash centers and places of worship (churches, mosques, synagogues). It is logical to make the exterior walls and facades explosionresistant . However, there are also situations where interior walls explosion resistance require, such as in valuables rooms, High Secure Areas (HSA), vaults and panic rooms. What are the possibilities for explosionresistant walls and how does this relate to the resilience of the entire shell of a space? Our specialists are uniquely capable of providing an integrated overview of your risks and (OBE) measures. This also includes combinations of bullet resistance, explosion resistance, burglary resistance and fire resistance possible. We are happy to provide you with appropriate advice.

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All about Explosion-Resistant Walls

There are various ways to make a wall explosion-resistant. For example, a steel or wire construction can be used in (or in front of) a wall, but there are also special explosion-resistant concrete, plastic, composite, and even explosion-resistant grilles, films, and coatings. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. The application dictates the choice of method. This is closely related to the desired resistance class (based on your predictable risks), but also the thickness and weight of the walls and the shape/volume of the space. Especially in a situation of existing construction that needs to be equipped with explosion resistance, careful consideration must be given to the technical implications. We are happy to make a calculation for you.

steel-wall-ballistic-test-explosion-protection

Conduction or Absorption

In explosion-resistant walls, we use conductive or absorbent materials and principles wherever possible that can deflect or absorb an acceptable amount of damage. For example, it may be an option to place a wall at an angle, reducing the impact of the shock wave (Mach Stem). In any case, prevent the complete disintegration of a wall. This can be done by incorporating a wire mesh into the walls to limit flying debris. Placing a wire mesh in front of a wall not only limits flying debris but can also catch an RPG (Rocket Propelled Grenade) before the wall itself is hit. This will limit the damage to the wall itself. Masonry walls are not recommended in the event of an explosion threat. Masonry quickly deteriorates, turning bricks into deadly projectiles. As you can see, there is much to consider. Start a conversation with a specialist now!

steel plate from manhole after ballistic test explosion protection

Standards for Explosion-Resistant Walls

There are no standards for protection against contact and shaped charges that are placed directly on facade elements such as doors and windows, but also walls. Mactwin has gained experience with practical tests to investigate the effect and failure progression with the aim of being able to deploy the right measures.

For remote explosions such as car bombs and industrial explosions, standards have been established. For example, the European standards EN 13123, EN 13124, and EN 13541. Additionally, we use the American GSA-TS01:2003 and ISO standards ISO 16934 and ISO 16943 where necessary. However, a standardized product does not yet say anything about the quality of your total resistance. We ensure that all measures are built in balance and coherence with each other, so you can always provide the resistance and safety that is important for your organization. Want to know how we go further where the standards stop? Feel free to contact us!