NEA Model 9106B Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM)
Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense (EBAD)
The NEA Model 9106B is a non-pyrotechnic, electrically initiated, one-shot Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM) capable of supporting release loads up to 32,000 lbf (142,000 N).
Key figurescomparable across the catalogue
- Mass
- 0.7 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
- 40,000 lbf (178,000 N)
- Release Load Rating
- 32,000 lbf (142,000 N)
- Shock @ Preload
- <1,000 g's @ 32,000 lbf (142,000 N)
- Fuse Wire Resistance
- 1.2 to 2.0 Ω @ 25°C
- Actuation Current
- 4 Amps for 25 ms
- No-Fire Current (continuity)
- 250 mA at 10-5 Torr @ 110°C
- Release Time
- <50 ms
- Operational Temperature Range
- -135°C to +135°C
- Maximum Angular Misalignment
- 6° Cone
- Mass
- 700 g (1.5 lbm)
About
The NEA® Model 9106B is a non-pyrotechnic Hold Down & Release Mechanism (HDRM) designed for electrically initiated, one-shot release. It 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 tight winding of restraining wire. This wire is held in place by redundant electrical fuse wires; actuating either circuit allows release, ensuring maximum reliability. When sufficient electrical current is applied, the restraint wire unwinds, allowing the spool halves to separate and release the rod and associated preload. This actuation principle is also used in other EBAD products like Pin Pullers, Battery Cell Bypass Switches, and Non-Pyrotechnic Valves. EBAD also offers a companion HDRM Firing Unit (HFU) to multiplex a single Launch Vehicle firing order to fire (4) Model 9106B’s in diagonal pairs or simultaneously, ensuring proper current application and tight actuation simultaneity. The HFU provides safety interlocks for Arming and Firing and offers status for integration and launch readiness. Key features include non-explosive function, high restrained preload, extremely low release shock, high simultaneity for multiple hold-down points, wide operating temperature range, compatibility with pyrotechnic initiation circuitry, space-rated materials, and factory refurbishments. It has over 20 years of flight heritage and flight pedigree on more than 750 space platforms. 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.