Products

Hi-Shear is the primary qualified source for the NASA Standard Initiator (NSI) used for all initiation functions on the Space Shuttle. The NSI performs from an incredible low temperature of −420°F to a high of +320°F. Only NASA now distributes the NSI. However, the NSI "equivalent" alternative is our PC-23 initiator. It is utilized in all non-NASA space and major defense programs where the NSI was previously used. Our PC series meet Range Safety Standards for RF & EMI hazards, and 5 minutes 1 Amp / 1 Watt No-Fire test. The PC 117 series meets MIL-DTL-23659.

Applications:

Hi-Shear is the primary qualified source for the NASA Standard Detonator (NSD) used for all detonating functions on the Space Shuttle. The NSD is a combined NASA Standard Initiator (NSI) with a hermetically sealed Detonating Module. Hi-Shear detonators are designed to transfer shock waves and high pressure energies for initiating detonating trains, Shielded Mild Detonating Cord (SMDC) Flexible Confined Detonating Cord (FCDC) and other linear explosive lines. The PD Series function with 99.99% reliability at 95% confidence level from −165°F to +225°F and at altitudes to 420,000 feet. The PD series meets Range Safety Standards for RF & EMI hazards, and 5 minutes 1 Amp / 1 Watt No-Fire test.

Applications:

General features are lightweight, high-load capability, ultra low shock output with complete gas and particle containment. These pyrotechnic nuts actuate on very low pressure with large bolt insertion tolerance. Re-settable option is available.

Applications:

Extreme low shock output non-pyro separation nut. These nuts are actuated by a miniature electric motor on low energy with large bolt insertion tolerance. Re-settable option is available.

These nuts are used in:

Bolt catchers and improved bolt retractors are designed to retain (extract) a tension bolt after separation. They prevent potential structural damage or component malfunction due to bolt ejection. These devices are specifically designed for use in conjunction with Hi-Shear Separation Nuts as standard hardware for separation systems.

Cutters designed for robustness are used in deep space as well as deep submergence applications.

Used for rapid severance of:

Thrusters range from miniature type measuring less than ¼ inch diameter & 1 inch long to over 2 inchs diameter and 9½ inches long. These devices are capable of exerting forces from less than 1 pound to more than 12,000 pounds.

Applications:

Pin Pullers are controlled release mechanisms for instant detachment of structural fittings, mechanisms, packages, rods, cables or parachutes.

Thru Bulkhead Initiators

Separation Bolts series are designed and manufactured for use in launch vehicles, weapon systems, aircraft and other applications where rapid structure separation is demanded. Also known as explosive bolts, this product can handle tension load capabilities are in excess of 500,000 pounds.

Electronic Safe Arm Fuze (ESAF) is a dual mode, in-line system MIL-STD-1316 qualified single channel, fully electronic safe arm fuze with a removable keylock slapper detonator (EFI) assembly. Its function is to preclude premature arming and consequent initiation of the detonator during transportation, handling, pre-launch and launch conditions. When commanded, it also functions as a flight termination (missile destruct) during missile fly out.

Gas generators drive many functions on missiles, fighter aircraft, launch vehicles and satellites. Hi-Shear PC series initiators are used to function these gas generator devices.

Exploding Bridgewire (EBW) Initiators & Detonators

EBW initiators & detonators are used with our EBW firing units and cable assemblies.

These devices typically actuate:

Exploding Foil Initiators

EFI is similar to EBW except that an exploding foil bridge is used to accelerate a flyer down the barrel to impact an insensitive secondary explosive.