SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
WARNING
Do not use EARTH CRACK for purposes other than cracking rocks or concrete.
EARTH CRACK generates heat once mixed with water.
Unexpected overheating can cause the product to generate hot steam and blow out of holes.
Always stand clear of drill holes after being filled with EARTH CRACK.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING EARTH CRACK
When working with EARTH CRACK always wear SAFETY GLASSES, RUBBER GLOVES, DUST MASK and a HARD HAT.
Never look directly into the filled boreholes (risk of blow-out). If mixing instructions have not been followed correctly there is a risk of blow-out.
DO NOT use small or narrow-mouthed containers, or glass containers such as bottles, flasks as the product is expansive.
EARTH CRACK is non-toxic, but it does contain a large measure of caustic lime (CaO).
IF IN CONTACT WITH EYES: Rinse cautiously with plenty of cold water for several minutes. If contact lenses are being worn, remove them if possible. Continue rinsing. DO NOT RUB THE EYES. Consult a doctor.
IF IN CONTACT WITH THE SKIN: Wash with copious amounts of soap and water. In case of pain, injury, or allergic reactions, consult a doctor immediately.
EARTH CRACK is an alkaline product with Ph. Value of approximately 13 and could cause severe irritation to the skin, mucus membranes and eyes.
ROCK PREPARATION BEFORE USING EARTH CRACK
Measure the size of the rock.
Select the correct drill bit. Use only drills with a diameter between 30mm and 42mm.
The minimum drill hole depth equates to 5 times the diameter of the drill hole. The holes must be as clean and dry as possible. Clean the holes by blowing them out with compressed air.
Distance between the centres of the drill holes in rock or non-reinforced concrete should be 200mm – 250mm, depending on the diameter of the hole. Reinforced concrete: the distance between centres of the drill holes should be 200mm – 300mm.
The larger the diameter of the hole, the larger the spacing between holes.
Large diameter holes positioned closer together accelerate breaking times.
EXAMPLES: DIAMETER SPACING
32mm – 200mm
34mm – 200 – 250mm
38 – 40mm – 300mm
For the best possible results, it is advisable to carry out preliminary tests with EARTH CRACK before starting work.
HOW TO USE EARTH CRACK
Use EARTH CRACK only in an ambient temperature below 20°C.
DO NOT store in direct sunlight or close to a heat source. ALWAYS store EARTH CRACK in a cool and dry place.
On very hot days, fill the holes early in the morning. Cool every tool you are going to use before mixing. Use very cold water. Add ice to cool water on hot days. Use the exact amount of water: 1.5 litres per 5 kg. Never more that 1.7 litres per 5kg. Pour water into a large container.
Gradually add the powder to the water, stirring all the time to obtain a smooth, lump-free mortar. Whenever possible, prepare the mixture mechanically. (Poor mixing increases the risk of blow-out)
Mix a maximum of two bags (10 kg) for each batch at a time. If the mortar becomes slightly stiff add a little more water to achieve the required fluidity. IMMEDIATELY after mixing pour the EARTH CRACK mix about 30mm from the top into the holes.
DO NOT cover holes with solid material. Cover the filled holes only in the event of rain using a waterproof sheet. The reaction time is weather dependent, anything from 2 – 3 hours to 48 hours depending on ambient temperature.
Dilute the excess mixture with lots of water and dispose of in compliance with local regulations. Close the workplace off against unauthorised access.
Do not pour the mixture into bottles or other closed containers. (Risk of blasting effect). Pay heed also to the danger and safety instructions on the packaging.
WHAT IS A BLOW -OUT?
A blow-out is the sudden, explosion-like escape of EARTH CRACK from the hole. A blow-out occurs when a hole is filled with EARTH CRACK and the top portion that is exposed to the atmosphere has already set whilst the bottom portion of the chemical mass is still fluid.
The bottom part will build up steam and shoot out the top “plug” at high speed.
Should someone be hit in the face by the material escaping under high pressure, it could result in serious injury or blindness.
NEVER look directly into the filled boreholes and at all times wear safety glasses when working with EARTH CRACK.
After a first blow-out has taken place, this repeats about 3-6 times, and can also occur in other holes.
Filled holes that start to steam, or smoke is a definite warning sign of a possible blow-out.
Clear personnel in the area immediately. Block access to the work area for all people for at least 2 hours.
Ensure that every person using EARTH CRACK understands the possibility of blow-outs.
HOW TO PREVENT BLOW-OUTS
Store, mix, and pour EARTH CRACK at a temperature below 20°C
Non-compliance with the instructions or improper handling may result in a blow-out.
DO NOT store in direct sunlight or close to a heat source. ALWAYS store EARTH CRACK in a cool and dry place.
DO NOT mix in a small or narrow-mouthed plastic can or bowl.
DO NOT use hot water to mix EARTH CRACK.
Pour EARTH CRACK into CLEAN, DRY holes.
DO NOT overfill the holes.
DO NOT tap the filled holes with bars or similar tools.
DO NOT plug filled holes with hard materials.
Open the bag just before use. Opened bags cannot be stored or re-used
Dilute excess mixture with lots of water and dispose of in compliance with local regulations.
Shelf life: In the original packaging, for at least 1 year.
Store out of the reach of children
STORAGE
Store EARTH CRACK in a cool, dry well-ventilated area and use it as soon as possible. EARTH CRACK is packed in moisture-proof plastic bags, but prolonged storage can cause deterioration.
Always pack EARTH CRACK bags on a pallet and keep in a dry storage facility.
Open the bag just before use. Opened bags cannot be stored or re-used.
Damaged bags of EARTH CRACK may be ineffective due to possible moisture absorption.
Shelf life: In the original packaging, for at least 1 year. Store out of the reach of children
F.A.Q.
About Earth Crack
It is environmentally friendly and produces NO vibration, NO noise, NO toxic gasses, NO flying rock, NO residue.
Proudly manufactured in South Africa
EARTH CRACK has a Shelf life of at least 1 year.
EARTH CRACK is a universal product to crack rock, stone, concrete, and reinforced concrete
Saves time and money. Noise pollution is minimised,EARTH CRACK also works during the night. No large machines required, consumption can be accurately calculated, costs can be precisely calculated and it can be used over extensive areas.