Abstract: An energy absorbing structural strut employs a composite tube bonded to an end fitting with the bond being slightly lower in strength than the crushing strength of the tube in axial compression. The end fitting incorporates an anvil to rupture the tube and absorb energy upon shearing of the bond with the strut in compression.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for heat treating a structural member, for example, to relieve stresses therein, are provided. The structural member is restrained in a die cavity by one or more inflatable bladders so that a desired dimensional accuracy is achieved. The structural member can be heated by an electromagnetic field generator, such as an induction coil, that heats one or more susceptors to a characteristic Curie temperature. The apparatus can be used to process structural members of various sizes and shapes, and the heating and cooling cycle can be performed relatively quickly.