Shape Memory Alloy Activated Retractable Elastomeric Sealing Device

Abstract

A retractable seal replaces the existing o-ring seals on the Tomahawk Capsule Launching System (CLS). An elastomeric member is shaped to fit within the existing o-ring slot on the CLS and a cylindrical ring member of shape memory alloy circumscribes the elastomeric member. Under normal operating temperatures, the shape memory alloy member has a diameter large enough to allow the elastomeric member to extend beyond the diameter of the CLS so as to form a seal against the missile tube, yet small enough to not interfere with the seal. When the shape memory alloy member is heated, it contracts to a smaller predetermined diameter, compressing the elastomeric member within the o-ring slot so as to allow the movement of the CLS into or out of the missile tube without abrading the elastomeric member.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 07, 1998
Accession Number
ADD019004

Entities

People

  • Raymond A. St. Amand

Organizations

  • United States Department of the Navy

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abrasion
  • Alloys
  • Contracts
  • Diameters
  • Elements
  • Geometry
  • Heat Exchangers
  • Helical Springs
  • Inventions
  • Launching
  • Materials
  • O Rings
  • Patents
  • Retractable
  • Rings
  • Shape Memory Alloys
  • Skeletal Muscle

Readers

  • Inertial Navigation Systems.
  • Materials Science and Engineering.
  • Thermal Physics or Thermal Science.