Strengths of pyrotechnics for Flight Termination System for launchers - by Bertrand

Why is a Flight Termination System required for launcher?

Securing the destruction of a launcher when it deviates from its targeted path is of course a critical function!

In such situation, an immediate severance of solid rocket motor cases or of liquid propellant tanks is required.

Even when the flight is a success, it is necessary to passivate the stages to avoid explosion risk, and also to sink used motor cases when they fall into the sea.

The ring incorporates a Linear Shaped Charge bent inwards. Its function is to empty the main liquid propellant tank and to avoid any risk of unwanted explosion.

What are the pyrotechnic solutions and their benefits for space FTS?

The most emblematic product devoted to flight termination is the Linear Shaped Charge also known as cutting cord.

The principle remains simple: “A V-Shaped explosive charge enclosed in a high density metal sheath” but successfully mastering all the design options is complex!

The severance of any structure is made possible thanks to a high density, high velocity metal jet produced by the collapse of the V-shaped profile, upon detonation of its inner explosive and the scalability of cutting cords whose size can be adapted to targets of any material or thickness.

The use of secondary explosives provides shaped charges an intrinsic immunity to extreme aggressions mechanical, thermal or electrical.

Another quality of the chosen energetic materials is their ultrafast functioning time: below one millisecond from order to complete severance.

It is the know-how of engineers that guarantees sufficient margins to ensure the maximal reliability of this last recourse device.