Space Launchers Flight termination systems

Pyrotechnic Flight Termination System for launchers

Pyroalliance designs and manufactures pyrotechnic systems involved in different actuation functions for space applications. A typical application is the Flight Termination function required for space launchers.

The overall dimensions as well as the nature of the structures to be severed to terminate the flight can be very heterogeneous. Our solution is then customized depending on the requirements. Based on a generic architecture presented hereafter, we can accommodate a large portfolio of severance solutions to elaborate the appropriate design and optimize the performance while limiting weight and size of the embarked equipment. More generally, Pyroalliance delivers complete pyrotechnic chains adapted to its customers’ needs. They are designed and manufactured under Pyroalliance design authority.

Flight Termination System at a glance

Benefits of pyrotechnics

  • The design of our generic FTS solution is compliant with the RCC 319 Commonality Standard as well as with European space standards usually made applicable to most launch sites
  • Functioning time of such equipment is extremely short, thus perfectly fitted for the responsiveness expected from a Flight Termination function
  • Redundancy and physical separation of two distinct initiation chains usually contribute to the extreme reliability of the function
  • Appropriate pyrotechnic components are selected to meet the environment constraints – especially temperatures – associated to the mission profile

Pyroalliance's FTS equips the VEGA family and Ariane 6 - ©ESA

Key figures of pyrotechnic performance

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Key figures of pyrotechnic performance
OFF-THE-SHELF AVAILABLE LENGTHS FOR LINEAR SHAPED CHARGES: Typical sizes are 220mm, 850mm and 1340mm
CUTTING PERFORMANCES: Up to 22 mm steel and 35 mm carbon composite
RANGE OF OPERATING TEMPERATURES: Typically from -50°C to +110°C
RELIABILITY: Better than 0.999 at 95% confidence
MASS OF THE SET: Depending on size and number of charges

Flight Termination System for launchers

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