Secondary Muzzle Flash and Blast of the British 81-mm, L16A2, Mortar
Abstract
The British 81-mm, L16A2, Mortar, using six increments of MK3 propellant, has occasional rounds which cause intolerable overpressures at crew locations. The pressure-time records for the offending rounds show that the problem is associated with secondary muzzle flash, which is known to cause excessive overpressure in artillery and naval weapons also. Our calculations, designed to simulate the present mortar conditions, support the observations that the mortar flashes every time it is fired. The British have observed that either the addition of 1% chemical flash suppressant to the propellant or the addition of a two-caliber, conical suppressor eliminates the flash. These observations are combined with our calculations to provide a new basis for flash prediction for mortar systems. Several approaches to the flash problem of this mortar are considered, the best of which is the use of a cooler propellant M6, as a replacement for the British propellant.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA104324
Entities
People
- George E. Keller
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory