30. Topfmine Fuze SF 1 (Topfminenzünder SF 1; To.Mi.Z. SF 1)

a. Description. The topfmine fuze SF 1 (fig. 35) is an instantaneous, chemical fuze where a chemical creates a flame. The fuze consists of a cylindrical glass case with a round, thick glass pressure head which is glued a cork washer. Inside the hollow glass case, and glued to a celluloid disk, are two glass vials, one containing ethyl nitrate and the other a potassium and sodium compound. The case is threaded at the base to fit into a plastic detonator holder. The fuze with the detonator attached is 3 1/2 inches high and 1 1/2 inches in diameter. The fuze is waterproofed by a coat of thin plastic-like material.

b. Employment. This fuze was especially designed for use in the nonmetallic anti-tank Topfmine (par. 75).

c. Functioning.

(1)

Pressure of at least 132 pounds on the glass pressure head shears off the glass rim of the pressure head at the shear groove, allowing the pressure head to crush the two glass vials of chemicals.

(2)

The chemical reaction between the two chemicals creates a flame which sets off the detonator.

d. Installing and Arming.

(1)

Insert a nonmetallic detonator into the plastic detonator holder and screw it to the base of the fuze with the plastic detonator-holder collar.

(2)

Screw the fuze into the wooden fuze adapter in the Tofpmine.

e. Neutralizing.

(1)

Remove the fuze from the wooden fuze adapter.

(2)

Unscrew the plastic detonator holder and remove the detonator.

f. Packing. Six fuzes are packed in a narrow cardboard box with the abbrevation "SF 1" stamped on the lid.

Figure 35. Topfmine fuze SF 1.