Cushion element for detonators and the like; apparatus and method of assembly

An improved detonator includes a housing having an open end and an opposite, closed end and defining an axially-extending channel of the housing. A cushion element containing at least one aperture is disposed within the channel and is provided with a resilient, pliable and shock absorbent surface for contacting and retaining explosive material at the closed end of the detonator housing. The cushion element has a signal communicating membrane covering its at least one aperture for passage therethrough of an initiating signal to the explosive material. A method for assembling the detonator includes inserting explosive material into the axially extending channel of the detonator housing, inserting a cushion element having a signal communicating membrane into the channel, and pressing the cushion element towards the closed end of the housing for compacting the explosive material between the cushion element and the closed end of the housing.