PYROTECHNICS
In-house Manufacture & Testing
Pyrotechnics have always played a large part in the design and production of our ejection seats and, most importantly, their ejections. Martin-Baker manufactures and tests all of its own pyrotechnics at our Chalgrove site.
The Pyrotechnic devices for Martin-Baker were originally manufactured at Denham, but were transferred to Chalgrove in 1986, after a purpose-built factory was established.
The Chalgrove site is fully complies with UK ER2014 (Amendment) 2016 Regulations and the US Regulations DOD4145.26-M. As per these regulations, site plans are available on-site for viewing by the designated DCMA Safety Officer.
OUR PYROTECHNIC PRODUCTS
Cartridges
There are several methods available to initiate the system, depending on the system requirements. These methods include:
- Ballistic gas.
- Mechanical firing pin.
- SMDC/TLX line.
- Electrical signal.
The output pressure and duration of the gas can be adjusted by modifying the pyro fill to suit the application.
Cartridges come with a variety of external interfaces to connect to the required systems. MBA produces cartridges that meet the requirements of MIL-STD-810F, MIL-STD-810G, and MIL-C-83125, and they have an operational temperature range of -65°F to +200°F (-54°C to +93°C).
Cartridges of this type are used on various in service aircraft.
Ballistic Gas to TLX/SMDC Line Initiator
The initiator serves as a transfer interface between the ballistic gas and high explosive (TLX/SMDC) transmission systems. These systems are used on many aircraft for various purposes.
This device comprises a firing pin system, which is activated by a ballistic gas signal. This firing system triggers the output from a high explosive detonator, which is used to initiate the TLX/SMDC line.
MBA produces gas to TLX/SMDC initiators that are qualified in line with the requirements of MIL-STD-810H, MIL-C-83124, and MIL-C-83125. The initiators have an operational temperature range of -65 to +200°F (-54 to +93°C) and are in service on multiple aircraft.
Digital In-Line Timer (DIT)
Ballistic Gas to Ballistic Gas
The MBA Digital In-Line Timers (DITs) are activated using a ballistic gas signal. The DIT has a pre-set delay time which can range from 140 to 4000 milliseconds. This time delay is used to sequence various events on the ejection seat, such as canopy removal, twin seat separation, or parachute deployment.
The DIT produces a ballistic gas output, which can be adjusted to suit the downstream system pressure requirements. DITs come with a range of input and output connections to match the specific system requirements and prevent errors.
MBA manufactures DITs that comply with the standards of MIL-STD-810F, MIL-C-83124 and MIL-C-83125. They are also designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -65 to +200°F (-54 to +93°C).
DITs are currently being used on various in-service aircraft.
Ballistic Gas Activated Rocket Motor
MBA rocket motors are activated by a ballistic gas signal. The thrust output of the rocket motors remains consistent throughout the burn duration and shows minimal variation across an operational temperature range of -65 to +165°F (-54 to +74°C). The thrust output is tailored to provide required output thrust in three dimensions. This ensures sufficient height for parachute operation, adequate fin clearance, and allows for seat divergence for twin seat ejections.
MBA produces rocket motors qualified in line with the requirements of MIL-STD-810F and MIL-P-83126A. These rocket motors are currently in service on multiple aircraft types.
