Eaton Corp.’s Cooper Industries had a part in the successful launch of the commercial conjoined communications satellites sent from Cape Canaveral in March. The company’s G&H Technology separation nuts, a component in its non-explosive actuator line, were were used approximately 30 minutes after takeoff, to initiate the separation of the payload-fairing system to expose the satellites to the space environment and ready them for disengagement. They were also used to release the steering for the thrusters from their stowed positions to facilitate orbital insertion and station keeping.
“All non-explosive actuators were deployed in the model 9421 separation-nut configuration which has extensive flight heritage in low-earth orbit and deep-space applications,” said Peter Anderson, director of marketing for connectors, cables, and release mechanisms, Eaton. “Additional advantages include safe handling and deployment without the explosive-materials precautions required when using pyrotechnic actuators.”
Non-explosive actuators are very niche products used mostly in space, launch, and military applications. These restraint and release devices use redundant, split-spool initiators to provide rapid releases with low power consumption.
They provide safe handling and deployment, and offer fragment- and debris-free operation. Non-explosive actuators do not require the explosive materials precautions associated with pyrotechnic actuators.
Fragment and debris-free operation.
The devices offer standard-product load ratings from 4500 to 9500 lb (20 to 42.2 kilonewtons).
Eaton Corp.
www.cooperinterconnect.com
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