Abstract: A shaped charge capsule includes an open-ended casing and a ring. The casing is adapted to house an explosive, and the casing includes a shoulder to receive a cap to close the casing. A rim of the casing at least partially surrounds the shoulder. The ring is adapted to be placed radially inside the rim and crimped with the rim to secure the cap to the casing. The ring is adapted to melt above an approximate predetermined temperature to release the cap from the casing. The cap may alternatively be secured to the casing by an adhesive that decomposes above the approximate predetermined temperature threshold.

Abstract: In the representative embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein, shaped charges adapted for installation in a typical end-loaded carrier are respectively provided with a domed annular retainer member of a thin, but substantially rigid and stiff, material which is coaxially disposed over the forward end of each charge. A smaller-diameter externally-tapered sleeve of a somewhat yieldable or deformable material is cooperatively arranged for positioning on each domed retainer member once its associated shaped charge is installed in the carrier facing and aligned with a lateral port therein. Then, as a port plug having an internally-tapered recess is installed in the port and telescopically forced over the sleeve, the forward portion of the retainer sleeve will be laterally compressed for securing the shaped charge in position with little or no inward or axial deflection of the domed retainer.