Why is it advised never to cut Nonel tubing?

• A. It reduces the assembly's weight
• B. It may lead to moisture entering and rendering it insensitive
• C. It can block the flow of the shock wave
• D. It makes the tubing flexible

Answer: (B)

The advice against cutting Nonel tubing is primarily due to the potential for moisture ingress, which can compromise the functionality of the assembly. Nonel tubing is designed to transmit detonating signals, and maintaining its integrity is essential for reliable performance. If the tubing is cut, it creates an entry point for moisture, which can affect the sensitivity of the entire detonating system. Moisture can form a barrier that prevents the correct transmission of detonating impulses, leading to failure in detonation or misfires.

The structural integrity of the tubing is a critical factor in ensuring that the explosives function as intended. In contrast, aspects such as the weight of the assembly or flexibility do not directly relate to safety hazards as much as moisture ingress does. Therefore, protecting the tubing from potential environmental factors is crucial for safe operations in mining and demolition activities.