Characterization of Two 12-mm Primers - the M129 and M125

Abstract

Increased precision/lethality of large-caliber weapons has been a goal of many for a number of years. Different (more energetic propellant compositions and configurations have provided much of the increases in performance. However, ever-increasing loading densities and the goal of more insensitive propellants translate to the need for ignition systems that are optimized for the propelling charge. Without such optimization, pressure waves can increase, thus endangering the gun and crew, or the ignition stimulus can be inappropriate, with resulting ignition delays and/or weakened ignition. The thrust of this investigation was to obtain interior pressure measurements and venting temperatures of the M129 and M125 primers (standard 120-mm primers). These data, coupled with the venting patterns revealed by high-speed video, provide baseline data for computer model formulation and validation so that the optimization process with the possibility of increase precision/lethality can be realized.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2007
Accession Number
ADA478342

Entities

People

  • Anthony W. Williams
  • Stephen L. Howard

Organizations

  • United States Army Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Ammunition
  • Base Pressure
  • Combustion
  • Energetic Materials
  • High Pressure
  • Ignition
  • Ignition Lag
  • Ignition Systems
  • Internal Combustion Engines
  • Materials
  • Measurement
  • Military Research
  • Optical Properties
  • Pressure Gages
  • Pressure Measurement
  • Propellants
  • Propelling Charges

Readers

  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Rocket Propulsion.
  • Systems Analysis and Design