SMA-based Fracture Release Mechanism (SFR Series) is an innovative non-explosive release mechanism, which is designed for the launch lock of a wide variety of deployable payloads including solar wings, antennae, and various appendages. The operation principle is very simple: a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) cylinder elongates when heated up to fracture a notched bolt, thereby achieving the separation of two or more components. The SMA-based actuator comprises a cylinder of Nitinol (Nickel-Titanium) SMA and integrated redundant heaters.  The reset of the SMA actuator can be achieved by compression the SMA cylinder to its original length using a special hydraulic reset tool.

The SFR series fracture release mechanisms are supplied with a variety of preload levels, ranging from 1.2kN ~ 22kN, corresponding threads M3~M12. Two mechanical interfaces are offered: standard interface (SFR-Mx-STD series) and bottom mount interface (SFR-Mx-BM series). A travel switch can be incorporated inside to give “ON” or “OFF” signals when the device is released or armed, and the height of device will increase about 13mm. The mechanical interfaces are offered: standard interface with travel switch (SFR-Mx-STD-TS series) and bottom mount interface with travel switch (SFR-Mx-BM-TS series).