Terminal Ballistics of Steel/Aluminum Composites. Part I. Caliber .30 AP Study.
Abstract
The small caliber AP ballistic performance of two hardened 4300 series alloy steels is studied. Both alloys satisfy specification AMS 6359C for aircraft-quality steel plate, except one has a modified carbon content of 0.46 to 0.48 weight percent; AMS 6359C specifies a carbon content of 0.38 to 0.43. The AMS 6359C alloy is tested in monolithic plate form; the higher carbon alloy is tested as frontal plate in steel/aluminum laminate designs. Steel/aluminum composites of modified 4340 alloy steel heat treated to a hardness level of HRC 55 to 60 and backed with armor grade 5083 aluminum are tested with the caliber .30 AP M2 projectile. Limit velocity data is generated for composites of unit weight 13.5 to 20 lb/sq ft and variable weight fraction steel. Ballistic tests are conducted both at ambient conditions and subzero temperature. Comparative limit velocity data is generated with the caliber .30 AP M2 projectile for monolithic plates of AMS 6359C 4340 steel hardened to HRC 50 to 55 and current production high-hardness steel (MIL-A-46100). (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA098392
Entities
People
- Eugenio Deluca
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory