Fike Products In Space

On May 16, 2011, the space shuttle Endeavour lifted off on its final mission—the penultimate mission of the entire shuttle program—and subsequently docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on May 19. Part of the Endeavour's mission was to deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS-02), which included several Fike rupture discs, to the ISS.

The AMS-02 is a state-of-the-art particle physics detector designed for a ten-year study to search for anti-matter and to collect data to determine long-term variations of cosmic ray composition and flux. These observations will be used to attempt to answer fundamental questions about our universe regarding the existence of dark matter and to improve our understanding of the origin of cosmic rays and their propagation through our solar system.

"As part of the AMS-02 project, Fike rupture discs featuring G2 technology are being used to provide overpressure protection of discrete volumes for the Cryomagnet system's helium and vacuum vessel," explained Jeff Stokes, Fike Senior Mechanical Engineer, Industrial Protection. "The discs are used to prevent pressure excursions above the Maximum Design Pressure (MDP) of subsystems of the AMS- 02 Cryogenic system including the vacuum case, the superfluid helium tank and the cryogenic plumbing system."

Fike offers a complete line of cost-effective rupture discs, holders and pressure relief devices which are compliant with global code regulations and designed to meet or exceed industry requirements for performance, reliability and quality. And when unique situations such as the AMS-02 project demands a different approach, Fike's experienced engineers and technical staff explore each requirement to develop the perfect solution.

"Though exciting to be part of such an extraordinary project, this is not the first time Fike pressure relief products have been in space. Fike rupture discs were specially designed for use within the engine powering the space shuttle itself," says Mr. Stokes.

Fike is a globally recognized supplier of products and services that protect people and critical assets from dangers such as fire, explosion, and over-pressurization. With over 65 years experience manufacturing safety solutions, Fike offers a complete line of proven, reliable products to customers around the world.

SOURCE: Fike Corporation