Development Program of Dual Mode Impact Delay Module for Artillery Fuzes.
Abstract
The M1 Plunger Delay Element currently in use on artillery fuzes is limited in usefulness due to the fixed pyrotechnic delay time employed. The effect against thin targets is that the round can pass thru the wall of a typical thin target, go thru an empty space and enter the opposite wall before detonation. The effect against thick targets is that the round will detonate prior to penetration of the wall into the occupied space. Both cases illustrate less than optimum effectiveness against all possible target thickness. The Dual Mode Impact Delay provides a delay proportional to target thickness so that detonation occurs as a function of target penetration regardless of thickness. This is accomplished by sensing the deceleration on impact. Upon reduction of deceleration force too a level corresponding to target penetration, the unit senses this and detonation occurs. This mode of operation therefore provides optimum projectile effectiveness regardless of target thickness. The scope of work for this contract was divided into 3 phases with each phase having specific improvements incorporated and tested for sensitivity, environment and ballistics. In addition, as part of Phase I, a study was conducted to: (a) Evaluate sensitivity of the M55 Detonator by means of a flying plate test and compare with the sensitivity of a less sensitive material (lead oxide); and (b) Evaluate the ability of a reduced output M99 to initiate the acceptor M55 Detonator.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA105905
Entities
People
- Gray C. Thomas