Design Criteria for Inert or Consumable Polymer Cartridge Materials
Abstract
Semiempirical theory is used to provide guidelines for selecting inert or consumable polymer cartridge materials on the basis of chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties for use in existing gun systems. Internal ballistic parameters are obtained using the Le Duc velocity approximation. Resulting energy release, temperature, and transient pressure to the cartridge are then related to rate of degradation, heat transfer, and viscoelasticity in terms of chemical, thermal and mechanical properties using the Arrhenius activation energy theory, and Fourier heat conduction equation, and the Tresca failure criteria. The design criteria are based on simultaneous mechanical failure (powder gas erosive action) and burning/ degradative consumption of a filled or unfilled polymeric cartridge material as a function of the time of projectile travel in the gun. The technique for defining the ideal cartridge material property envelope is outlined for any existing gun system. Candidate polymer cartridge materials on one side of the envelope are consumed on firing, whereas those on the other side are inert. The usefulness of the technique is shown for a specific ammunition in a 5-inch 54-caliber Navy gun.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0887364
Entities
People
- Anthony San Miguel
Organizations
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake