MIL-HDBK-83578

Abstract

This handbook is a guide for certifying applications of explosive systems and devices on space vehicle systems. <br>This handbook provides criteria for design, manufacture and performance certification of explosive systems and explosive devices commonly used on space vehicles and space systems. Explosive systems include components and assemblies that provide stimuli for initiation and propagation of explosive trains used to activate explosive devices. Explosive trains and devices are components or assemblies containing or operated by explosive materials. The latter are, by design, "one-shot" components that cannot be tested completely before use. Performance confidence of "one-shot" components can only be obtained by destructive tests of like samples from common production lots. This handbook describes criteria to certify safe and reliable performance of explosive systems and their "one-shot" components. The information contained in this handbook is intended to be universal sets of tools for explosive system manufacturers and users use during all phases of development and certification. This information can also be used for guidance during preparation of acquisition contracts and program specific documents, and may be used for explosive system applications unrelated to space vehicles. <br>The criteria outlined in this handbook are a composite of those verified by previous use in space vehicle applications. Described are essential design characteristics, suggested manufacturing controls, and methods for certifying performance, acceptance, qualification and useful life. These criteria, defined as standards, rules, tests or measures of value by which an item can be judged, are applicable to explosive systems commonly used on space vehicle systems. Explosive systems are used for controlled rapid release of directed energy for, launch pad release, propulsion ignition and disablement, stage and payload separation, appendage and antenna release, and other functions. Explosive devices include all elements of explosive trains within the explosive system. These include, but are not limited to, explosive initiators, safe arm devices, explosive energy transfers, destruct charges, explosive actuated devices, and others. The criteria offered here are generic in nature therefore users are encouraged to consider tailoring criteria to best-fit individual applications.