NEA® Model 9103 Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM)
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense (EBAD)
The NEA® Model 9103 is an electrically initiated, one-shot non-pyrotechnic Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM) capable of supporting release loads up to 7,868 lbf (35,000 N).
Key figurescomparable across the catalogue
- Mass
- 0.2 kg
Normalised to common units so this product can be compared with others in its category. The supplier's own wording is below.
As published by the supplier
- Proof Load Rating
- 9,217 lbf (41,000 N)
- Release Load Rating
- 7,868 lbf (35,000 N)
- Shock @ Preload
- <750 g's @ 7,868 (35,000 N)
- Fuse Wire Resistance
- 1.2 to 2.0 Ω @ 25°C
- Actuation Current
- 4 Amps for 25 ms
- No-Fire Current
- 250 mA at 10-5 Torr @ 110° C
- Release Time
- <50 ms
- Operational Temperature Range
- -135°C to +135°C
- Maximum Angular Misalignment
- 3° Cone
- Mass
- 200 g (0.44 lbm)
About
The NEA® Model 9103 is a non-pyrotechnic Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM) designed for high reliability and precise release. It operates as an electrically initiated, one-shot release mechanism that can carry a very high tensile preload until commanded to release. The preload is applied through a release rod held by two separable spool halves, which are secured by a tightly wound restraining wire. This wire is held in place by redundant electrical fuse wires; actuating either circuit ensures release, maximizing reliability. When sufficient electrical current is applied, the restraint wire unwinds, allowing the spool halves to separate and release the rod and its preload. This simple and reliable actuation forms the basis for many of EBAD’s other products. It features non-explosive operation, high restrained preload, extremely low release shock, and high simultaneity for multiple hold-down points. The mechanism has a wide operating temperature range and can be used with pyrotechnic initiation circuitry. It is made with space-rated materials and has over 20 years of flight heritage, with a flight pedigree on more than 750 space platforms. EBAD also offers factory refurbishments. Typical applications include antennas, reflectors, solar arrays, deployable radiators, booms, masts, scientific instruments, satellite and spacecraft dispensing, and launch vehicle/missile stage and fairing separation.
Documentation
No public datasheet yet — request the datasheet / ICD from the supplier.