Implications of Gun Propellant Bed Rheology
Abstract
Simulation of the interior ballistic cycle for certain gun systems can sometimes predict the growth of pressure waves to potentially dangerous amplitudes. Such predictions involve the propagation of large amplitude stress waves through a compressed aggregate of propellant grains. The fidelity of the simulation will depend upon the accuracy of the constitutive behavior assigned to the propellant bed. This report examines the current formulation in Gough's NOVA-series codes, and then explores the implications on effective wave propagation speed for two different materials: a brittle crystalline material (HMX) and a double-base ball propellant. The results indicate the potential importance of solid-phase compressibility at stress levels above 100 MPa.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA263456
Entities
People
- Douglas E. Kooker
- Paul J. Conroy
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory