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Blast radius calculator

Explore how a published blast-overpressure standoff term scales with TNT-equivalent net explosive mass. It is not a complete exclusion-zone calculation.

Calculator

Cube-root overpressure standoff term
15.8679
Selected K factor (ft/lb^(1/3))
40.00000000
Scope of result
Overpressure scaling term only. Fragments, debris, confinement, terrain and current authority requirements can require greater distances.

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How this calculator works

Published quantity-distance rules include cube-root scaling of a TNT-equivalent net explosive weight. This page exposes the overpressure term and its criterion explicitly. All-up munition mass is not net explosive weight, and fragmented munitions cannot be represented safely by mass alone. The cited instruction requires additional hazard assessment; its K factors do not establish a universally safe radius. Site approval and exclusion zones require the applicable authority and a qualified explosives-safety assessment.

Formula

D(ft) = K × W(lb)^(1/3); W is TNT-equivalent net explosive weight. K is 40 or 328 for the selected published criterion.

Worked example

For 8 lb of TNT-equivalent net explosive weight, K40 gives an overpressure term of 80 ft (24.384 m). K328 gives 656 ft (199.9488 m).

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Frequently asked questions

Can I enter the total munition weight?

No. The formula uses TNT-equivalent net explosive weight, which differs from the total mass.

Does this include fragments?

No. Fragment and debris distances require munition-specific information and can govern the required exclusion zone.

Does this certify a safe public distance?

No. It only illustrates the stated overpressure scaling term; the governing assessment can require larger distances.

Sources

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