The explosive composition in the bolts is powerful and safe; so packed that no amount of concussion can explode it; the bolt must be pierced through the capsule at the muzzle for that purpose. The bolts are hermetically sealed at the muzzle by a metallic capsule, and can be stored for an indefinite length of time without chance of deterioration. The exploding point of the composition in the bolt is 420° Fahrenheit.
(L)
The side and top levers are so arranged, that when driven close into the torpedo, the bolt is down to the shoulder; and, since there are three explosions to take place, it is calculated the torpedo will be in hugging contact when the main charge explodes, and exploded by a powerful discharge in the centre, thereby disposing of the explosive force to the greatest advantage.
The torpedo must be closing to the ship when the levers are acting and the bolt descending; no experiment for the force of explosive agents, with a cushion of water intervening, is required. The amount of explosive agent, when in contact, is all that is required, and the torpedo can be manufactured to contain a larger charge, if thought necessary, with a very small increase of dimensions; but the present size is convenient for handling and launching; and if loaded with any of the powerful blasting powders, would, in all probability, prove sufficient to bilge or destroy the largest iron-clad.
(M)
(N)
The lanyard or side-lever is permanently secured to the short arm of the lever; the end is rove under the fair lead on the deck of the torpedo up through the brass oval hole in the after top lever, then down under the fair lead (abaft the first turn), and across the deck of the torpedo to the handle, and secured with a round turn and two half-hitches. Care should be taken that the short arm of the lever is brought close into the fair lead, and the lanyard should be set up sufficiently taut to give a slight spring in the after top lever by the strain brought on it. This lever has a steel fish on the top, in order to prevent it taking a permanent bend. If the side-lever lanyard is properly set up, the bolt will spring down about one-eighth of an inch when the safety key is withdrawn, owing to the spring in the lever and shrinking of the lanyard; this brings the muzzle one-eighth of an inch nearer the pin without disturbing the side lever. The lanyard should be made up like a reef-point; it should be well-greased immediately before launching.