Thermal Transient Test Apparatus
An apparatus for evaluating the thermal transient behavior of an electroexplosive device is described. The thermal response provides nondestructive testing insight with respect to device design and behavior. Abnormal responses may be indicative of imminent failure and the apparatus provides a rapid evaluation method for quality control.
Electrothermal Characterization for a Fusible Link
A low energy fusible link was characterized by its electrothermal analog model. Thermal transient testing apparatus, procedures, and methodology were used to determine the required parameters. The thermal time constant was determined by a novel comparison technique. Typical data and its relevance are presented.
Thermal Response of Bridgewires used in Electroexplosive Devices
The thermal equations for a bridgewire or equivalent electroexplosive device are presented. When sinusoidal current passes through such a thermally sensitive resistance, it is capable of generating a third harmonic voltage which is a measure of the ability to follow the instantaneous cycling power fluctuations. By measuring the variation of this third harmonic with frequency it is possible to determine the thermal time constant.