The properties of Sn–Zn–Al–La fusible alloy for mitigation devices of solid propellant rocket motors

Abstract

The Al and La elements are added to the Sn9Zn alloy to obtain the fusible alloy for the mitigation devices of solid propellant rocket motors. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), metallographic analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), tensile testing and fracture analysis were used to study the effect of Al and La elements on the microstructure, melting characteristics, and mechanical properties of the Sn9Zn alloy. Whether the fusible diaphragm can effectively relieve pressure was investigated by the hydrostatic pressure at high-temperature test. Experimental results show that the melting point of the Sn9Zn-0.8Al0·2La and Sn9Zn–3Al0·2La fusible alloys can meet the predetermined working temperature of ventilation. The mechanical properties of those are more than 35% higher than that of the Sn9Zn alloy at −50 °C–70 °C, and the mechanical strength is reduced by 80% at 175 °C. It is proven by the hydrostatic pressure at high-temperature test that the fusible diaphragm can relieve pressure effectively and can be used for the design of the mitigation devices of solid propellant rocket motors.

Keywords

• Mitigation devices
• Solid propellant rocket motors
• Sn9Zn
• Al element
• La element
• Hydrostatic pressure at high-temperature test