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Big Bang 50

Product information, applications, features, benefits, and brochure.

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Big Bang 50

Big Bang 50

Overview

The Big Bang 50 is an accelerated weight drop seismic source designed for reliable, high-speed, low-cost seismic energy production. It provides an approximately 3 second cycle time and fast move-up time to help reduce acquisition costs and improve field productivity.

The system delivers a full spectrum of useful high and low frequency seismic signal for near-surface acquisition. It includes a shock absorbing latch pin and lifting mechanism, plus a handheld controller with 20 feet of cable so the operator can run the source from inside a tow vehicle.

Big Bang 50 uses a reliable 12 volt DC permanent magnet motor that provides 1 kilowatt of hammer cocking power. Energy is stored in common garage door springs, which are low cost, readily available, and reliable for field operation.

Features

Accelerated Weight Drop Source
  • Reliable accelerated weight drop seismic source
  • Designed for high-speed, low-cost seismic energy production
  • Approximately 3 second cycle time
  • Fast move-up time for improved field productivity
  • Produces useful high and low frequency seismic signal
Drive & Energy System
  • 12 volt DC permanent magnet motor
  • 1 kilowatt hammer cocking power
  • Energy stored in common garage door springs
  • 140 lb standard garage door spring energy storage
  • Low-cost and readily available spring components
Operator Controls
  • Handheld controller included
  • 20 ft controller cable for operation from tow vehicle
  • 24 ft battery cables
  • Uses standard 12 volt DC car battery, not provided
  • Optional adjustable speed control
Mechanical Design
  • 50 lb standard impact hammer weight, adjustable
  • 18 inch draw and release height
  • Grade 8 shock absorbing latch pin and roller
  • Dead blow hammer with steel shot pocket
  • Standard 10 lb steel shot capacity
  • Flat steel top allows magnetic GPS mount
Mounting & Transport
  • Standard 2 inch square tube receiver coupler
  • Includes approximately 10 inches of adjustable hitch height
  • Low shipping weight: 100 lbs uncrated
  • Additional hitch and cable weight: approximately 25 lbs
  • Minimum dimensions: 52 inches high x 12 inches wide x 10 inches deep

Benefits

Increase Field Production
  • The fast cycle time and quick move-up workflow help crews acquire more shots per day.
Reduce Operating Cost
  • Common garage door springs, 12 volt power, and simple mechanical design help keep operating costs low.
Improve Source Repeatability
  • The controlled draw and release mechanism provides consistent impact energy for repeatable seismic shots.
Operate From Tow Vehicle
  • The handheld controller and long cable allow the source to be operated from within the tow vehicle.
Protect Mechanical Components
  • The shock absorbing latch pin and roller help reduce stress on gear boxes and improve reliability.
Deploy with Common Vehicles
  • The 2 inch receiver coupler and adjustable hitch height make it practical for truck or trailer mounted acquisition.

Related Applications

Learn more about applications commonly used with this product.

Near Surface & Engineering Seismic
  • Use as a compact accelerated weight drop source for shallow seismic, refraction, and engineering geophysics projects.
MASW Acquisition
  • Provides repeatable impact energy for surface wave and MASW acquisition workflows.
Rapid Mobile Seismic Acquisition
  • Fast cycle time and vehicle-mounted operation support high-production field acquisition.
Low-Cost Seismic Source
  • Simple 12 volt power and common spring components help provide economical field operation.
Impact Source Acquisition
  • Use with recording systems and trigger equipment designed for mechanical impact sources.

Brochure

Big Bang 50 Brochure