TD-06 Decoupler

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TD-06 Decoupler
Part image
Decoupler by
O.M.B. Demolition Enterprises

Radial size Tiny
Cost (total) 150.00 Funds
Mass (total) 0.01000 t
Drag 0.3-0.2
Max. Temp. 2000 K
Volume  ?
Impact Tolerance 6 m/s
Research Precision engineering.png Precision Engineering
Unlock cost 1 200 Funds
Since version 1.4
Part configuration Decoupler_0.cfg
Ejection momentum 500 Ns
Testing Environments
On the surface Yes
In the ocean Yes
On the launchpad Yes
In the atmosphere Yes
Sub orbital Yes
In an orbit Yes
On an escape Yes
Docked No
Test by staging Yes
Manually testable No

The TD-06 Decoupler is a decoupler part which allows detachment of one vehicle section from another. "Decoupler" is sometimes used as a generic term for staging devices of similar function, but should not be confused with separators. A TD-06 decoupler is typically used for staging smaller rockets vertically and in sequence. This part replaced the older TR-2V Stack Decoupler in which it works essentially the same, however, it has a shorter visual profile.

Usage

The TD-06 adds a stage (detachable section) to the rocket and remains attached to one section of the rocket (typically the section jettisoned) when the staging sequence is activated. The asymmetric detachment function of the decoupler is the distinguishing difference compared to a separator which when activated symmetrically detaches from both sections it was attached to. To aid the Kerbol engineers assembling rockets, O.M.B. Demolition Enterprises has painted an arrow on the TD-06 to identify the explosive end of the decoupler which will detach when activated. The opposite side of the decoupler pointing away from the arrow will remain affixed to the section it is attached to. The ejection momentum or the force of which the decoupler separates at is measured in multiples of 10 Ns.

It is important that prior to activating a stage containing an operational engine that all of the fuel has been utilized, shut down or in the case of SRBs, all of the fuel has been expended to prevent runaway stages from colliding with the main rocket during ascent. If the engines of the stages are shut down (or fuel depleted), the main rocket should have enough momentum to clear them on release, although due to the induced inward torque of the decoupler it may be necessary to place Sepratron I radial-mounted rockets on the spent stage to aid in avoiding collision of the booster with the main rocket as it separates.

Engines which are staged and placed above another section will not operate if the decoupler attached directly below it has not been jettisoned. The engine will ignite, however it will not provide any thrust as the engine is blocked by another part. Jettisoning the decoupler will then allow the engine to operate as intended.

Node Size

  • 0.625m - decouple side (releases from upper attached part)
  • 0.625m - non-decouple side (remains with lower attached part)

Product description

The TD-06 Stack Decoupler is a miniature detachment device for small rockets

O.M.B. Demolition Enterprises

Related Parts

Media

Sequence shows booster separating from payload via TD-06 Decoupler.

Changes

1.8
  • Decreased cost from 300 to 150
1.4
  • Initial release