Abstract: A frangible joint for a structure is provided. The structure is provided having a first portion and a second portion with a feature defining a fracture plane disposed therebetween. A first housing is coupled to a first side of the first portion, the first housing having a first slot adjacent the first side and a first wall member adjacent the feature. A second housing is coupled to the second portion the first housing, the second housing having a second slot adjacent the second side and a second wall adjacent the feature opposite the first wall. A first expanding tube assembly is disposed within the first slot. The first expanding tube assembly having a first tube containing a first explosive core. A second expanding tube assembly is disposed within the second slot. The second expanding tube assembly having a second metallic tube containing a second explosive core.

Abstract: An elastomeric charge holder includes one or more holes formed therein into which is disposed an explosive charge. The elastomeric charge holder further includes one or more metal wires also disposed within the elastomeric charge holder. The elastomeric charge holder may be over molded or over extruded over each of the one or more metal wires, thereby retaining each of the one or more wires in place during use of the elastomeric charge holder. The one or more wires are also a better match of thermal coefficients to a metal confinement tube that holds the elastomeric charge holder, which results in improved retention of the elastomeric charge holder in place, particularly during initiation of the explosive charge.

Abstract: An elastomeric charge holder includes one or more holes formed therein into which is disposed an explosive charge. The elastomeric charge holder further includes one or more metal wires also disposed within the elastomeric charge holder. The elastomeric charge holder may be over molded or over extruded over each of the one or more metal wires, thereby retaining each of the one or more wires in place during use of the elastomeric charge holder. The one or more wires are also a better match of thermal coefficients to a metal confinement tube that holds the elastomeric charge holder, which results in improved retention of the elastomeric charge holder in place, particularly during initiation of the explosive charge.