Lotus 2004 ELISE Service Notes page 432

Lotus Service Notes
Safety Standard
The pre-tensioning function is energised via pyrotechnic materials, therefore manipulation, handling and
storage MUST be performed to the specified procedures as described to avoid any occurrence of injury to the
operator or damage to the pre-tensioning unit.
In normal conditions, the pre-tensioner assembly can only be activated through the action of the electric
ignition control during impact. During the activation phase of the pyrotechnic charge, small gas quantities are
developed. The main constituent of the gases is Nitrogen:
Note! This gas is not toxic.
The pre-tensioner assemblies must be protected against exposure;
- To temperatures over 90°C (195°F) at contact with surfaces
- 90°C during 106 hrs.
- From sparks and naked flames.
WARNING: If exposed to temperatures in excess of 140°C, self-ignition of the pyrotechnic charge of
the gas generator may occur. Exposure to temperatures in excess of 165°C, self-ignition of the
pyrotechnic charge will occur.
Also, if exposed to temperatures between 90°C (285°F) and 165°C (330°F), deterioration of the pyrotechnic
charge ignition is possible. The consequences of this could be failure to activate at prescribed levels. The pre-
tensioner must be protected against stresses, shocks and dropping. Pre-tensioners that have been subjected
to such treatment must be discarded and returned to the supplier with accompanying paperwork describing the
reasons for return.
Never store pre-tensioner assemblies with other flammable or combustible materials. Gas generators
MUST be prevented from coming into contact with acid, water, grease and heavy metals: Contact with these
substances may cause toxic or dangerous gases, or explosive mixtures.
Any residual fuel of the gas generator, not burned during ignition, is slightly flammable. The unit, there-
fore, must never be disassembled, damaged or the parts manipulated. Any advertising or demonstrations of
the pre-tensioner assembly should only be carried out using inert pre-tensioners (without the pyrotechnic charge).
The base of the pre-tensioner must be painted green, with visible and indelible wording, stating 'Inert Assem-
bly'. It must incorporate the KSS logo, signed with indelible ink by the person responsible for the supply of the
product.
WARNING: Never disassemble the pre-tensioner or any of it's components!
Transportation of belt with pre-tensioner
Transport on road vehicles should be carried out with the assemblies stored in the luggage compartment.
Never transport in the passenger compartment. Never transport the pre-tensioner manually or holding it by the
webbing: this can result in damage to the assembly.
Storage of belt with pre-tensioner
Belts with pre-tensioning elements should be stored in containers or boxes that can be locked with a key,
and ventilated. They MUST be stored in an area free from flames and heat sources. On completion of work, or
during work break periods, pre-tensioner belts should be returned to the storage container and locked with a
key.
Disposal of belts with pre-tensioner
Charged pre-tensioners to be scrapped and not fitted to a car must be activated. This should be carried
out only by the belt manufacturers, or specialised workshops.
Vehicle disposal
Charged pre-tensioners fitted to a vehicle MUST be removed before the vehicle is dismantled for scrap-
ping. If the pre-tensioner is not activated during an accident, the device must be considered as still to be in a
'charged' condition.
General safety instructions/dangers for health
- When handling activated pre-tensioners, use safety glasses and vinylic or nitrylic protection gloves.
- After handling a loaded pre-tensioner, wash hands with soap and water.
Section WD
Page 17