Y10T137/1744

Rupture disk

A rupture disk (20), along with associated methods, is disclosed. More particularly, a miniaturized rupture disk is disclosed, comprising a transition area (23) configured to determine a pressure at which the rupture able portion will rupture. A method for forming a rupture disk is also disclosed, wherein a radius (R) of a transition area is configured to set the burst pressure of the rupture disk. A rupture disk having an indent at its apex (24) and a circular line of weakness configured to improve opening performance is also disclosed. Additionally, a method of relieving pressure in a pressurized system is disclosed, wherein a set of rupture disks is provided, wherein each rupture disk in the set has a different radius of transition area. A rupture disk may be selected from the set and installed based on a burst pressure set by the radius of transition area.

Normally-closed zero-leak valve with magnetostrictive actuator

A non-pyrotechnic, normally-closed, zero-leak valve is a replacement for the pyrovalve used for both in-space and launch vehicle applications. The valve utilizes a magnetostrictive alloy for actuation, rather than pyrotechnic charges. The alloy, such as Terfenol-D, experiences magnetostriction, i.e. a gross elongation, when exposed to a magnetic field. This elongation fractures a parent metal seal, allowing fluid flow through the valve. The required magnetic field is generated by redundant coils that are isolated from the working fluid.

NORMALLY-CLOSED ZERO-LEAK VALVE WITH MAGNETOSTRICTIVE ACTUATOR
20170089476 · 2017-03-30 ·

A non-pyrotechnic, normally-closed, zero-leak valve is a replacement for the pyrovalve used for both in-space and launch vehicle applications. The valve utilizes a magnetostrictive alloy for actuation, rather than pyrotechnic charges. The alloy, such as Terfenol-D, experiences magnetostriction, i.e. a gross elongation, when exposed to a magnetic field. This elongation fractures a parent metal seal, allowing fluid flow through the valve. The required magnetic field is generated by redundant coils that are isolated from the working fluid.