Abstract: The invention relates to a cartridge having a projectile secured to a case that contains a propelling charge and closed by a base. A device for igniting the propelling charge has at least two energetic igniter cords that extend between an initiating means secured to a rear part of the case and the projectile. In this cartridge, the cords are joined at their rear part so as to form a strand, and they are fastened by at least one fastening means secured to the cartridge, the strand being connected to the initiating means by a packing gland making it possible to immobilize the cords both radially and axially relative to the initiating means while keeping the cords tight between their fastening means and the initiating means.

Abstract: A ballistic transfer system, comprising: a housing, wherein the housing is cylindrical, wherein the housing comprises: a central bore that traverses a length of the housing; a first end; wherein the first end is disposed about a first ballistic apparatus; and a second end, wherein the second end is opposite to the first end, wherein the second end is disposed about a second ballistic apparatus; an alignment insert, wherein the alignment insert is secured into the housing; a first detonation transfer line, wherein a portion of the first detonation transfer line is disposed within the alignment insert; and a second detonation transfer line, wherein a portion of the second detonation transfer line is disposed within the alignment insert.

Abstract: Methods and systems for an explosive cord are disclosed. An explosive cord may comprise a tubing comprising an inner surface and an outer surface, a reactive material comprising hexanitrostilbene and/or boron potassium nitrate coupled to the inner surface of the tubing, and a hollow or solid core through the center of the explosive cord.

Abstract: Select-fire, downhole shockwave generation devices, hydrocarbon wells that include the shockwave generation devices, and methods of utilizing the same are disclosed herein. The shockwave generation devices are configured to generate a shockwave within a wellbore fluid that extends within a tubular conduit of a wellbore tubular. The shockwave generation devices include a core, a plurality of explosive charges arranged on an external surface of the core, and a plurality of triggering devices. Each of the plurality of triggering devices is associated with a selected one of the plurality of explosive charges and is configured to selectively initiate explosion of the selected one of the plurality of explosive charges. The methods include methods of generating a shockwave utilizing the downhole shockwave generation devices.

Abstract: An initiator with fuse device for an automatic self-contained fire suppressor and method are provided herein. Stovetop fires are a well-known residential and commercial hazard. The initiator with fuse device for an automatic stovetop fire suppressor has a rapid light time in the presence of flames. The time to light is consistent and reliable for the fuse described herein. Comparative tests show a shorter light time for the present fuse as compared to conventional fuses. Further, the variability in lighting times is shortened when the herein described configuration is employed. Deployment of an automatic stovetop fire suppressor can be safer than manual extinguishing means and via the initiator with fuse described herein, the time to deployment is greatly improved. Manufacturing of the initiator with fuse is readily adapted to existing processes.

Abstract: A energy transfer device (10) is provided that is capable of transferring the energy output from one pyrotechnic device (52) to another device (78) for initiating firing thereof. Device (10) comprises a device housing (12) in which a deformable device insert (14) is received. Device insert (14) comprises a central passageway (34) for transmitting the output from a pyrotechnic device (52), including energy, gasses, and/or solids, to another pyrotechnic device (78). The passageway (34) conducts the pyrotechnic device output to a precise location on the second pyrotechnic device (78) where firing is most effectively initiated. The energy transfer device (10) may be employed as a part of a tool (44) used in well completion operations.

Abstract: A frangible joint for separating a pair of components is provided. The frangible joint includes a first portion coupled one of the pair of components and a second portion coupled to the other of the pair of components. The first portion and the second portion are spaced apart by a gap. At least one plate is coupled between the first portion and the second portion across the gap. A first tube having a first explosive cord is disposed therein and a first pliable member arranged between the first explosive cord and the first tube, the first tube being disposed in the gap. A second tube having a second explosive cord is disposed therein and a second pliable member arranged between the second explosive cord and the second tube, the second tube being disposed in the gap adjacent the first tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pyrotechnic device for the destruction of munitions by an explosive at least partially surrounding the munitions having walls for confining the active products. The device includes an igniter for the controlled ignition of the explosive, the igniter configured to couple explosive detonation waves into the walls of the munitions along at least two opening lines of said walls of the munitions. Application of embodiments of the invention includes controlled destruction of munitions or objects containing pyrotechnic and/or chemical substances.

Abstract: A timing element for an initiator is made from a reactive polymeric material such as, e.g., a glycidyl azide polymer. The reactive polymeric material may include pulverulent oxidizer additives, such as ammonium, perchlorate and/or ferric oxide. The oxidizer additives are used to increase the rate of reaction and the output spark of the polymer material. The timing element serves to delay the travel of an initiation signal between an input, such as a signal transmission input line, and an explosive output charge, for a predetermined period of time, usually about 5 to about 10,000 milliseconds, e.g., about 9 to about 9600 milliseconds.

Abstract: A detonating fuse includes at least one CNT wire shaped structure. The at least one CNT wire shaped structure includes a plurality of CNTs and an oxidizing material. The oxidizing material is coated on an outer surface of each of the CNTs.

Abstract: A detonator assembly is provided. The detonator assembly comprises a deflagration to detonation transition body, a first thermally stable secondary explosive contained by the body, and a bulkhead coupled to the deflagration to detonation transition body. The bulkhead contains pressure within the body associated with firing the detonator assembly at least until a transition from a deflagration operation mode of the detonator assembly to a detonation operation mode of the detonator assembly has occurred. A second thermally stable secondary explosive may alternatively be included in the deflagration to detonation transition body, either separated from the first thermally stable secondary explosive or mixed with the first thermally stable secondary explosive. The detonator assembly comprises effectively no primary explosive.

Abstract: A detonator assembly is provided. The detonator assembly comprises a deflagration to detonation transition body, a first thermally stable secondary explosive contained by the body, and a bulkhead coupled to the deflagration to detonation transition body. The bulkhead contains pressure within the body associated with firing the detonator assembly at least until a transition from a deflagration operation mode of the detonator assembly to a detonation operation mode of the detonator assembly has occurred. A second thermally stable secondary explosive may alternatively be included in the deflagration to detonation transition body, either separated from the first thermally stable secondary explosive or mixed with the first thermally stable secondary explosive. The detonator assembly comprises effectively no primary explosive.

Abstract: A primer composition that includes red phosphorus having an acid scavenger and a polymer thereon. The primer composition includes at least one other component that is substantially free of lead. The other component is at least one oxidizer, or at least one oxidizer and at least one of at least one secondary explosive composition and at least one energetic binder. The primer composition optionally includes at least one element having an ionic charge to ionic radius ratio of 4 or of 8, such as magnesium, zirconium, aluminum, silicon, titanium, tungsten, alloys thereof, and combinations thereof. The red phosphorus and the at least one oxidizer are present in the primer composition at approximately stoichiometric amounts. An ordnance element including the primer composition is also disclosed.

Abstract: A detonator assembly is provided. The detonator assembly comprises a deflagration to detonation transition body, a first thermally stable secondary explosive contained by the body, and a bulkhead coupled to the deflagration to detonation transition body. The bulkhead contains pressure within the body associated with firing the detonator assembly at least until a transition from a deflagration operation mode of the detonator assembly to a detonation operation mode of the detonator assembly has occurred. A second thermally stable secondary explosive may alternatively be included in the deflagration to detonation transition body, either separated from the first thermally stable secondary explosive or mixed with the first thermally stable secondary explosive. The detonator assembly comprises effectively no primary explosive.

Abstract: A signal transmission tube may be made by disposing a reactive polymeric material within a confinement tube and leaving a portion of the tube interior unoccupied. The tube may be formed by disposing a layer of paint comprising the reactive polymeric material on the interior surface of the confinement tube, extruding the confinement tube over an elongate rod that comprises the reactive polymeric material. The rod preferably has a high surface area configuration, e.g., the rod may comprise a longitudinal bore therethrough or may be star-shaped, cross-shaped, etc. Alternatively, the signal transmission tube may be made from the reactive polymeric material. Optionally, a sheath may be extruded over the tubular reactive polymeric material. In various embodiments, the confinement tube or sheath may be configured to be fractured or substantially consumed by the reaction of the reactive polymeric material. Optionally, the reactive polymeric material may comprise a glycidyl azide polymer.

Abstract: A connector block for retaining at least one shock tube in signal transfer relationship with a detonator. The connector block comprises a housing (2, 21) having a bore (4, 23) formed therein for receiving a detonator (6, 36) provided with a percussion-actuation end (7, 25), a shock tube retention means (8, 28) defining with the housing a slot (9, 29) for receiving therein at least one shock tube (10, 30) and holding the at least one shock tube in signal transfer relationship with the percussion-actuation end of the detonator present in the bore, the slot having an entrance (12, 32) for allowing insertion of the at least one shock tube into the slot, and a flexible and resilient closure member (11, 31) or an inflexible closure member (50) pivotable on a sprung hinge (51) extending partially or fully into the entrance.

Abstract: A coreless-coil shock tube package system includes a “coreless” bundle of shock tubing, meaning that the tubing is not wrapped around a spool. The bundle may be a generally cylindrical coil of shock tubing. Optionally, two washer-like end plates abut the ends of the tubing coil for axial support. A layer of shrink-wrap or other polymer film partially covers the coil and end plates. A detonator is attached to one end of the tubing and lies tucked into the coil, through an end plate, for storage and transport. An igniter is attached to the tubing's other end. In use, the detonator is removed from the coil and attached to an explosive device. Then, the package is pulled away from the detonator and explosive, thereby uncoiling the tubing through the end plate for deployment. The igniter is actuated for igniting the shock tubing and activating the detonator and explosive.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic device having an ignition delay between a fuse or igniter and a device to be ignited, including a first element which defines a first space that houses at least one fuse or igniter, and a second element which communicates with a second space that houses the device to be ignited, moreover, the device includes a track containing an evenly burning flammable material, which is in permanent contact with the first space by a connecting portion of the first space and with the second space by an opening. The first element can slide in relation to the second element and/or vice versa such as to alter the length of the track between the connecting portion and the opening, in order to modify the duration of the ignition delay.

Abstract: A small diameter shock tube of unique internal surface configuration such that the powder loading per meter of tubing can be higher than achieved with conventional shock tube. The outside diameter of the tube is less than 0.10?, preferably 0.085? with inner and outer layers of different polymeric material bonded together in a coextrusion process. The inside surface of the shock tube has radially inwardly projecting ribs or protuberances that result in an increase of the internal perphi of the inner surface cross section achieving a 30% increase so that powder loading per meter of the tube can be kept in a safe range.

Abstract: A novel transfer ordnance line and novel end fittings for the transfer line for use in space vehicles, aircraft, missile systems and other military applications. The transfer line is a Rapid Deflagrating Cord (RDC) hermetically encapsulated in a metal tubing. The metal tubing terminates at end fittings such as a loaded high energy (HE) end fitting which detonates, a low energy (LE) end fitting which burns, and a percussion primer used to start burning of the RDC in the transfer line. The transfer line is constructed so that gases produced during the burning of the RDC do not escape and pose a threat to the surroundings during functioning and so moisture does not enter the system during shelf life, transportation, or at any other time prior to functioning. With minor adjustments to the transfer tube and the end fittings, the transfer tubing can be made flexible by forming a coil.

Abstract: This invention relates to a detonating cord (10) having a core (12) of reactive material and a composite jacket around the core, and the method of its manufacture. The composite jacket includes an interior jacket (14) in contact with the core and a sacrificial jacket (20) disposed over the interior jacket. The sacrificial jacket prevents the cord from being cut off by the detonation of another detonating cord of like core load disposed adjacent thereto. The sacrificial jacket is separable from the interior jacket beneath it under the force of the adjacent detonating cord, thus absorbing energy and allowing the first detonating cord to remain intact. The detonating cord may have a core load of not more than 3.2 grams/meter (15 grains/ft) or, optionally, less than 1.25 g/m (6 grains/ft). The interior jacket may be free of metal jacket layers. Optionally, the outer cross-sectional diameter of the cord may be not more than about 3.8 mm (0.15 inch) so that it can be inserted into a standard detonator.

Abstract: A small diameter shock tube of unique internal surface configuration such that the powder loading per meter of tubing can be higher than achieved with conventional shock tube. The outside diameter of the tube is less than 0.10?, preferably 0.085? with inner and outer layers of different polymeric material bonded together in a coextrusion process. The inside surface of the shock tube has radially inwardly projecting ribs or protuberances that result in an increase of the internal perphi of the inner surface cross section achieving a 30% increase so that powder loading per meter of the tube can be kept in a safe range.

Abstract: A novel transfer ordnance line and novel end fittings for the transfer line for use in space vehicles, aircraft, missile systems and other military applications. The transfer line is a Rapid Deflagration Cord (RDC) hermetically encapsulated in a metal tubing. The metal tubing terminates at end fittings such as a loaded high energy (HE) end fitting which detonates, a low energy (LE) end fitting which burns, and a percussion primer used to start burning of the RDC in the transfer line. The transfer line is constructed so that gases produced during the burning of the RDC do not escape and pose a threat to the surroundings during functioning and so moisture does not enter the system during shelflife, transportation, or at any other time prior to functioning. With minor adjustments to the transfer tube and the end fittings, the transfer tubing can be made flexible by forming a coil.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reliably activating explosives includes providing one or more housing sections that define a sealed space. A first explosive element is provided in the sealed space, and a second explosive element has a first portion inside the sealed space, and a second portion outside the sealed space exposed to outside pressure. A gripping mechanism grips a surface of the second explosive element to maintain a position of the second explosive element that is exposed to the outside pressure in an axial direction of the second explosive element.

Abstract: A timed pyric chain apparatus, particularly for the ignition of pyrotechnical fireworks includes a main conduit (2) for a retard fuse (16) the main conduit (2) having lateral branch conduits (5). The apparatus consists of coupled modular elements, each modular element having a fuse holder (1) including a main conduit (2) in which a retard fuse (16) is to be placed. The main conduit is divided into a first portion (4), the cross section of the first portion (3) being smaller than the cross section of the second portion (4), the fuse holder further including a lateral branch conduit (5) for receiving a wick (17) retainer (11) for a part of its length. The wick is provided with a fire passing sheath (18), the coupling of a first fuse holder (1) to a second fuse holder (1?) resulting from the introduction of the first portion (3) of the first fuse holder (1) in a second portion (4?) of the second fuse holder (1?).

Abstract: A gas generator comprises a tubular housing of a pressure-resistant material and a propellant strand which is incorporated in the housing and provided with an envelope. At least one channel is provided between the envelope and the propellant strand so as to extend in an axial direction. The propellant strand has a substantially circular cross-section and the envelope has a polygonal cross-section.

Abstract: The present invention provides a rigid reactive cord such as a detonating cord (10) that includes a core (38) of an energetic material and a rigid non-metal sheath (40) disposed about the core. The cord (10) is sufficiently rigid so that it can be inserted through a material to be fractured or through passages formed therein. A method of using the rigid reactive cord for the removal of combustion residue from boiler tubes is also presented.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cord-type gas generator, comprising a solid propellant strand (10) consisting of a gas-generating material, located in a sleeve (12) and a detonation element (18). The solid propellant strand (10) is positioned in the sleeve (12) in such a way, that continuous channels (19) are configured between the sleeve (12) and the solid propellant strand (10) for the formation of a detonation shock wave. The gas generator is characterised in that the solid propellant strand (10) has a reduced woven thickness (W), achieved by the introduction of gaps into the material (slits 13, pores 14), in order to reduce its burn time.

Abstract: A linear ignition fuze has a sheath, the inner surface of which has an irregular cross section such that the sheath is capable of forming a gas channel against a single strand core having a substantially circular (e.g. circular or elliptical) cross section. According to one embodiment of the invention, the sheath wall is of a non-uniform thickness having a cylindrical outer surface and a polygonal inner surface. The gap formed between the apexes of the polygonal inner surface and the substantially cylindrical core form the gas channels, while the contact between the side walls of the polygonal inner surface and the cylindrical core confine the core within the sheath.

Abstract: A novel transfer ordnance line and novel end fittings for the transfer line for use in space vehicles, aircraft, missile systems and other military applications. The transfer line is a Rapid Deflagration Cord (RDC) hermetically encapsulated in a metal tubing. The metal tubing terminates at end fittings such as a loaded high energy (HE) end fitting which detonates, a low energy (LE) end fitting which burns, and a percussion primer used to start burning of the RDC in the transfer line. The transfer line is constructed so that gases produced during the burning of the RDC do not escape and pose a threat to the surroundings during functioning and so moisture does not enter the system during shelflife, transportation, or at any other time prior to functioning. With minor adjustments to the transfer tube and the end fittings, the transfer tubing can be made flexible by forming a coil.

Abstract: An apparatus for activating a selected one or more restraint devices located in a vehicle is provided. The apparatus reliably and inexpensively activates restraint devices upon the receipt of one or more appropriate signals. The apparatus includes a control unit having a housing enclosing a processor, a circuit board, and a plurality of initiator assemblies. Explosive transfer lines are inter-connected to the initiator assemblies at a first end, and to the restraint devices at a second end. Upon the receipt of an appropriate signal from one or more sensors located in the vehicle, the processor activates at least one of the initiator assemblies, which in turn ignites at least one of the explosive transfer lines. The explosion propagates along the explosive transfer line to its corresponding restraint device or devices to activate one or more of them.

Abstract: A linear ignition fuze has a sheath, the inner surface of which has an irregular cross section such that the sheath is capable of forming a gas channel against a single strand core having a substantially circular (e.g. circular or elliptical) cross section. According to one embodiment of the invention, the sheath wall is of a non-uniform thickness having a cylindrical outer surface and a polygonal inner surface. The gap formed between the apexes of the polygonal inner surface and the substantially cylindrical core form the gas channels, while the contact between the side walls of the polygonal inner surface and the cylindrical core confine the core within the sheath.

Abstract: A linear ignition system for a metal-sheathed linear explosive including in one embodiment the ends of two metal-sheathed linear explosives are connected by a non-electrically conductive sleeve leaving a gap between the ends, and a Pyrofuze® bridge connects the metal-sheath of one end to the metal sheath of the other end. Electrical contacts are made to the two metal sheaths and application of current to the electrical contacts ignites the Pyrofuze® bridge and the linear explosives. Embodiments can also include an explosive mixture in the gap, using a hotwire bridge, or including booster increments for initiating detonating explosives. The linear ignition systems offer robust, easy-to-install linear explosive devices for applications in automotive, commercial or military aircraft safety systems, other military and aerospace applications, and commercial blasting.

Abstract: A method for assembling a blast initiation device is provided. The method comprises providing a length of signal transmission line having first and second ends, mounting a tag to the line and mounting a first detonator to the first end of the line wherein all of the steps are each performed at a single operator station by a single operator. Also provided is an apparatus for utilizing the method. The apparatus comprises a tagger device for mounting a tag to a length of signal transmission line having first and second ends. A crimp device is adjacent the tagger device for mounting a first detonator to the first end of the line. A blocker device is adjacent the detonator crimp device for locking a connecting block to the first detonator. The tagger, crimp and blocker devices are spatially arranged adjacent an access position for ease of operation by a single operator. Further provided is a kaizen cell comprising a plurality of workstations.

Abstract: A heat-responsive fuse cord is positioned in the proximity of a pressure vessel and is thermally coupled to a thermal-pressure relief device which is in communication with the pressurized contents of the vessel. When ignited the fuse cord burns to a thermal coupler, transferring the heat to the thermal actuator of the TPRD. In a kit form, fuse cord and a thermal coupler provide an economical remote and retrofit triggering system for TPRD's having an otherwise limited environment of influence.

Abstract: An in-line initiator and firing device assembly includes a shock tube assembly. An in-line initiator is provided for initiating a shock wave along the shock tube assembly, and includes an end sleeve having a bore extending between input and output ends. At least a portion of a surface defining the bore toward the output end of the end sleeve is threaded for threadably receiving and forming threads on an outer surface of the input end of the shock tube assembly. A first retaining device is associated with the end sleeve for receiving a shock wave triggering device and securing the triggering device to the input end of the end sleeve. A firing device assembly is activated by a shock wave transmitted through the shock tube assembly. The firing device includes a barrel having a bore extending between input and output ends. The input end of the barrel communicates with the output end of the shock tube assembly and the output end communicates with a firing device.

Abstract: A detonating cord has a core of highly brisant PBXN-8 explosive surrounded by an inner braided layer of polyamide yarn, a flexible sealing sleeve of silicone rubber coated with glue, and an outer braided layer of polyamide yarn adhered to the sealing sleeve. Booster cups may be crimped to opposite ends of detonating cord to place booster charges adjacent the core to assure more reliable detonation of associated ordnance. The method of manufacture of detonating cord calls for providing a core of explosive PBXN-8 slurry, weaving an inner braided layer of polyamide yarn on the core, squeezing moisture out of the core of explosive PBXN-8 slurry during the weaving of the inner braided layer, applying a flexible sleeve of silicone rubber on the inner braided layer, coating glue on the flexible sleeve, and weaving an outer braided layer of polyamide yarn on the glue. Optionally, squeezing the core of explosive PBXN-8 slurry between rollers may be desirable to further remove excess moisture.

Abstract: A low energy fuse in extruded as a single ply primary tube 1 from a plastic resin blend with particulate energetic material 2 being internally distributed in a manner known per se, said resin blend comprising a major amount of an orientable polymer, for example, linear low density polyethylene to provide structural integrity and a minor amount of a modifier to impart enhanced particle retentive properties to the tube and preferably also containing a polymer or copolymer to impart melt strength and aid in tube extrusion.