Evaluation of the effects produced by triggering pyrotechnic articles for automotive use by exposure to various hazardous external stimuli

Abstract

The object of the evaluation of the risk factors that may lead to the accidental initiation of the semi-finished products containing pyrotechnic articles in the process of handling / use / storage / transport is represented by the estimation and assessment of the risk of initiation / detonation of pyrotechnic devices, based on the quantification of the dangers specific to the operations with these types of products, carried out in various phases of the technological flow, used in the manufacture of electrical circuit breakage subassemblies in motor vehicles. Protection against detonation due to accidental initiation is of particular interest to safety because these detonations endanger the life and health of workers as a result of the uncontrollable effects of deflagration and pressure, the presence of toxic reaction products and the consumption of oxygen from ambient air, which workers must inspire. Accidental initiation / detonation of the pyrotechnic actuator can occur by exposing it to the following dangerous external stimuli: electrostatic charge/electrical discharge – with a potential greater than 25 kV; stray currents when passing a current of 0.4 A through the two actuator initiation pins; temperature – higher than 165 ⁰ C; mechanical shock.