Review on Compression Ignition Sensitivity Studies of Liquid Gun Propellants.
Abstract
Most of the past work on the compression ignition sensitivity of liquid gun propellants did not succeed in elucidating the fundamental processes involved in compression ignition. Existing theoretical predictions rely on simplifying assumptions and remain unvalidated until appropriate experimental investigations are made. Recent experimental studies have focused on safety aspects and have tried to define reaction limits based on the ullage present, the bubble size, and the pressurization rate resulting in 'go or no-go' type of tests. Many of the tests have revealed, for cases where a compression ignition event was observed, a finite induction time before there is a significant pressure generation. There are five theoretical mechanisms (hot spot, impact (micro-jetting), chemical, cooperative effects, and oscillations) which may be involved during the ignition of a pressurized bubbly Lp and it is difficult to say which is the right one. Moreover, if one succeeds in discovering the mechanisms for ignition, adiabatic compression could be considered as a practical ignition source for a liquid propellant gun. Another important unknown in all of the adiabatic compression tests conducted to-date is the amount of dissolved gas in the propellant. For future tests, therefore, gas solubility measurements should be considered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA165969
Entities
People
- Eberhard Schmolinske
- John D. Knapton
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory