exploder

An exploder is a device whose primary function is to initiate an explosive charge. The term is used in civilian and military contexts to describe mechanisms that cause a controlled detonation, either as the first step in a sequence of charges or to trigger a main charge within a munition or device.

In mining, construction, and demolition, exploders are used to set off explosives in a timed or controlled manner. Typical components include an initiator or detonator, a blasting cap or similar primary explosive, and a detonating cord or electrical wiring. Modern systems often employ electronic detonators that allow precise timing, remote initiation, and safer handling compared with older mechanical fuzes.

In military ordnance, the term can refer to the internal mechanism that detonates the warhead, such as contact fuzes that trigger on impact or proximity/influence fuzes that detonate near a target. The exploder may be an electric, mechanical, or chemical initiator designed to produce reliable detonation of the main charge while maintaining safety during handling and storage. The exact design depends on the intended effect and the platform (bomb, shell, torpedo, mine, etc.).

Because explosives are highly regulated and hazardous, handling, transport, storage, and use are governed by strict laws and standards in most jurisdictions. Training and licensing are often required for professionals who work with exploders, and safety protocols govern the procurement and maintenance of equipment and supplies.