Description of the Five Steel Cube Launcher Used in the Multiple Fragment Impact Test
Abstract
MIL-STD-2105A provides a framework for the development of a consolidated explosives safety and IM assessment test program for non-nuclear munitions. The test recommended by these directives to simulate fragment impact is derived from the Explosives Advanced Development (EAD) Program's multiple fragment impact test. The EAD test uses single-point initiated Composition B explosive (approx. 200 pounds) to launch 25 1/2-inch mild steel cubes, having an initial velocity of 8300 ft/s, at a target placed 17 feet from the projector charge. At least three of these fragments are required to impact an 8-inch- diameter generic warhead. When this procedure was used during testing at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (formerly Naval Weapons Center), China Lake, difficulties were encountered in reliably hitting smaller targets (more representative of air-to-air missiles). This was because of the relatively large spread of the fragments at the 17-foot standoff location of the targets. A series of tests was conducted to determine the important variables in the fragment impact test in hope of more accurately controlling fragment velocity, aimiability, pattern dispersal, and test-to-test repeatability. The report summarizes the results of those tests and describes the development and implementation of a 5-cube fragment projector.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA268918
Entities
People
- Frank E. Norris
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division