MS® AERO "Heli-Link" shackle
Monolithic Textile Connector with High Structural Integrity
"Textile mechanical engineering: the stability of a rigid structure, the lightness of a feather."
CONCEPT: THE EVOLUTION OF THE "COHESIVE" CONNECTOR
The MS® Aero Shackle is no longer a simple assembly of fibers. It becomes a monolithic mechanical component thanks to the integration of a technical elastomer matrix at the heart of its architecture. This process transforms a flexible connector into a dimensionally stable component, capable of rivalling the performance of steel while eliminating its hazards.
1. ELIMINATION OF STRUCTURAL ELONGATION (ZERO-STRETCH)
Unlike standard textile shackles whose fibers have to realign under tension, MS® Aero is immediately neutral.
Instant response: thanks to its saturated structure, the shackle does not undergo any cross-sectional collapse. It behaves like a rigid body as soon as it is loaded.
Precise working: The absence of residual elongation guarantees millimetric positioning, essential for transporting critical loads (helicopter, aerospace).
2. THERMAL MANAGEMENT AND INTERNAL FRICTION
In a conventional textile connector, "fiber-to-fiber" friction generates destructive heat during load cycles.
Permanent solid lubrication: Our internal matrix isolates each Dyneema® spindle. It eliminates internal friction, drastically reducing the temperature at the heart of the fiber.
Fatigue resistance: The absence of internal erosion considerably extends product life, even under repeated tensile cycles.
3. CORE SEALING AND TOTAL PROTECTION
MS® Aero is intrinsically protected against environmental aggression by its air-void architecture.
Absolute hydrophobicity: The core of the product is saturated, preventing any water penetration. The shackle doesn't get heavy in the rain, and doesn't freeze at altitude (retaining flexibility down to -60°C).
UV and particle insensitivity: The matrix protects the fibers from ultraviolet rays and prevents the intrusion of abrasive particles (salt, sand, dust) that usually shear filaments.
4. ACTIVE AND DIELECTRIC SAFETY
Anti-delamination behavior: In the event of accidental spindle cut, internal cohesion prevents the damaged fiber from slipping, maintaining superior structural integrity.
High-voltage insulation: Total elimination of moisture and internal air gives the shackle exceptional dielectric properties, ideal for work under voltage (TST) or near electrical networks (RTE).
SPECIFICATION TABLE: MS® AERO "HELI-LINK" SHACKLE RANGE
| Model | Breaking strength (CR) | Working Load (WL) * | Average weight | Typical applications (Helicopter use) |
| HL-5 (Light) | 5.0 ton | 700 kg | ~ 85 g | Precision winching, ISR winching, light loads, mountain rescue. |
| HL-25 (Heavy) | 25.0 ton | 3,500 kg | ~ 320 g | Timber transport (skidding), pylon lifting (RTE), construction equipment, Big-Bags. |
COMPLIANCE & REFERENCE STANDARDS
To meet the requirements of aviation and workplace safety authorities, the MS® Aero Heli-Link range has been designed to comply with the following standards:
EASA CS-27 / CS-29: Certification specifications for external load attachment equipment on rotorcraft.
14 CFR Part 133 (FAA): International standard for helicopter external load operations.
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC: European conformity for lifting accessories.
ISO 20251: Safety requirements for textile slings and accessories used in helicopter operations.
THE NODUSFACTORY ADVANTAGE IN HELI OPERATION
Reduced dead weight: Where a 25-ton steel shackle weighs several kilos, the HL-25 weighs less than 400 grams. This directly increases payload or fuel autonomy.
Ground personnel safety: In the event of an emergency release or accidental rupture, the absence of metal masses eliminates the risk of fatal impact or destructive "whiplash" for the aircraft.
Thermal behavior (Rotation / Friction): Rotor blast and pendulum movements stress the fibers. Our internal matrix dissipates frictional heating, preserving the integrity of Dyneema® even during prolonged rotation.
Zero corrosion/watertightness: ideal for offshore and mountain work. The shackle does not freeze and remains insensitive to salt corrosion.
CUSTOMER COMMUNICATION (SAFETY)
Safety note: Safety factors may vary according to national regulations (e.g. 5:1 in the USA, 7:1 in Switzerland). Please consult your operations manual (MANEX) or local civil aviation authority to confirm the CMU applicable to your operations.