Integrated Data Collection and Analysis Project: Friction Correlation Study
Abstract
The friction sensitivity of new main-charge explosive formulations must be understood while investigating and characterizing a new material and for qualification/ fielding purposes. Sensitivity is measured in comparison to Composition B or a similarly qualified main charge material (such as PETN or RDX). The methods authorized in AOP-7 include Pendulum Friction, Rotary Friction, Sliding Friction (ABL), BAM Friction and Steel/Fiber Shoe Methods. The purpose of this study was to quantify a general correlation between the BAM Friction and ABL Sliding Friction apparatuses across main-charge high explosive materials and formulations, to further the general understanding of friction sensitivity in main charge high explosive ingredients and formulations and to maintain the utility of historical data while transitioning from mortar and pestle to steel pinch point friction sensitivity. This project provides an experimental methodology which results in a statistical correlation between the BAM Friction and ABL Sliding Friction apparatuses. Prediction of ABL values from BAM data is significantly more accurate with 89% accuracy for micrometers and 83% accuracy for sigma using the derived correlation expressions. Prediction of BAM micrometer is only possible with 57% accuracy and si with 62% accuracy. The observations in this study are based solely on the sensitivity of the energetics, and do not take into account any of the variation in ability to initiate due to mixture properties, or any interactions between the test apparatus and the energetic material. Any measureable characteristics of the initiation methods of the test apparatus (such as roughness of the interface) have not been explored as factors of the experiment and are classified as one of two levels in a single categorical factor: BAM or ABL friction apparatus. This study serves as a solid starting point for further research efforts in the ability to predict energetic sensitivity amongst disparate testing methods.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA626849
Entities
People
- Craig M. Bramlette
- Douglas M. Ray
- Jeffery Dennis
- Stacy M. Manni
- Thorsten Roberts
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory