There are three components to any explosive detonation. These are light, heat and blast effects. It should be obvious that the most dangerous of these three is the massive amounts of trauma and physical damage that can be incurred by a powerful blast. Injuries can be caused by flying debris, glass and even the concussion itself. Thus, it only makes sense that suitable protection from these effects will help to vastly increase the survivability of any such explosion. While there are many options that currently exist, one of the most popular is what as known as a blast curtain system. To appreciate the value of these devices, it is wise to take a closer look at how they operate and the level of protection that they will provide.
General Characteristics
The first thing that should be appreciated is that these curtains are most often placed over vulnerable parts of a structure; namely windows, doors and possibly partitions. The way they function is by dispersing the physical force of the blast over a uniform area while simultaneously catching any debris that would otherwise cause trauma to humans and extensive damage to the inside of a building.
It is important to note than many such systems are not firmly attached to the window; in fact, this would greatly reduce their efficacy. The most common blast curtain system will actually be firmly attached at the top while remaining freely hanging. This will allow the curtain to absorb the blast itself with flexibility and upon swinging back, it will deposit glass and other debris at its base.
Where is it Used?
Such hardware has seen a great deal of use throughout various locations in the United States and abroad. Obviously, the type of industry and its importance as a target will relate to how worthwhile such a blast curtain system will be. Government facilities, embassies, centers of administration and military installations are a few of the primary locations where these systems have been used with success in the past.
Thankfully, such curtains can be manufactured to nearly any dimension required. This will help accommodate a wide variety of buildings. Their installation is relatively quick and will not involve vast structural modifications. Therefore, these curtains are some of the most cost-effective and robust anti-terrorism solutions that can be currently purchased on the market.
This blast curtain system is used in countless different locations. To appreciate the construction of these devices.
