Utilization of Electrical Energy to Enhance Performance of Solid Propellant Guns
Abstract
Although the ETC propulsion system is often implemented with a novel propellant formulation to exploit the potential for high volumetric energy density and low molecular weight products, the introduction of an electrically generated plasma into a solid propellant has been proposed and, in fact, initially tested. Proponents of introducing plasma energy into the breech of a traditional solid propellant gun expect the plasma to serve two functions: perform as the igniter for the solid propellant, and increase the muzzle energy by providing an additional energy source to the propulsive gases. In this report, the feasibility of the second potential role of the electrically generated plasma in a solid propellant gun is explored theoretically. Estimates are made of electrical energy required to reach specific performance goals in a 60-mm gun.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA258787
Entities
People
- Gloria P. Wren
- Walter F. Morrison
- William F. Oberle
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory