Delayed Detonation After Projectile Impact
Abstract
In an effort to understand the mechanisms which cause munitions impacted by fragments to detonate, we conducted a test series in which we impacted 105-mm HEP warheads (Comp B loaded) by flat-faced cylindrical steel projectiles. The velocity of the projectile was varied in order to determine a 50% velocity for detonation. We instrumented our test with an external blast pressure probe and an internal carbon resistor gage so that we could discriminate between detonations and low-order explosive reactions. In addition, witness plates were used to record the fragmentation pattern of the 105-mm rounds. We have observed this broad categories of explosive reaction which are a function of the velocity of the impacting projectile: (1) prompt detonation at fragment velocities above 1,150 m/s (3,773 ft/s), (2) delayed detonation at fragment velocities around 1,150-900 m/s (3,609-2,952 ft/s), and (3) no detonation at fragment velocities below 900 m/s (2,952 ft/s). For any given fragment velocity, there was a wide variability in the measured delay time for explosive reaction. We attribute this variability to possible differences in hit location of the flat-nosed projectile on the cylindrical surface of the warhead, which would cause differences between the impact shock loadings even though the fragment velocity was the same. Delayed detonation, Fragment impact, Nonprompt detonation, Ammunition fragments, Explosion effects, Fragment velocity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA273090
Entities
People
- Harry E. Bates Jr.
- Steven R. Stegall
- Vincent M. Boyle
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory