blowout

blowout [′blō‚au̇t]

(electricity)

The melting of an electric fuse because of excessive current.

(electromagnetism)

The extinguishing of an electric arc by deflection in a magnetic field. Also known as magnetic blowout.

(engineering)

The bursting of a container (such as a tube pipe, pneumatic tire, or dam) by the pressure of the contained fluid.

The rupture left by such bursting.

The abrupt escape of air from the working chamber of a pneumatic caisson.

(geology)

Any of the various trough-, saucer-, or cuplike hollows formed by wind erosion on a dune or other sand deposit.

(hydrology)

A bubbling spring which bursts from the ground behind a river levee when water at flood stage is forced under the levee through pervious layers of sand or silt. Also known as sand boil.

(petroleum engineering)

A sudden, unplanned escape of oil or gas from a well during drilling.

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blowing

1. See popping.

2. The upward movement of soil material at the base of an excavation or cofferdam as a result of groundwater pressure.