| TiNi Aerospace's Frangibolt family of actuators is designed for deployment of a wide variety of stowed appendages including solar panels, antennae, cover doors, and various appendages. The principle of operation is simple: a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) cylinder elongates when heated up to fracture a bolt element thereby achieving separation of two or more components. The Frangibolt actuator comprises of a cylinder of Nitinol (Nickel-Titanium) SMA and a specially designed (integrated) heater. The family of actuators shown is designed to release loads up to 20,000 lbf.
- Flight Qualified
Since its outer space debut aboard the spacecraft Clementine (1994), the Frangibolt has been qualified and used on numerous other space applications.
- NEA (Non-Explosive Actuators)
The Frangibolt is safe to use and requires no special precautions in handling, usage or transport. It is also insensitive to ESD (Electro-Static Discharge) and EMI (Electro- Magnetic Interference)
- Safe Usage and Operation
The actuator is simply incorporated in the releasable joint using the specially notched fastener and pre-loaded to the prescribed torque.
- Redundant
Each Frangibolt incorporates a redundant heater which is capable of independently functioning the actuator.
- Reusable and Reliable
The actuator may be used numerous times during acceptance and system level testing.
- Cost Efficient
Due to its relative simplicity, TiNi Aerospace is able to provide the Frangibolt at a significantly lower price than comparable devices.
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TiNi Aerospace offers a wide range of Frangibolt actuators ranging in size from a #4 screw to a ¾ inch bolt. These are routinely customized to meet customer requirements. Some of the custom embodiments have been highlighted under the custom Frangibolt section. |
