Susceptibility of Explosives to Accidental Initiation,
Abstract
Sixty-two explosives were evaluated in NWSY TR 81-6, Susceptibility Index of Explosives to Accidental Initiation. A sampling of their sensitivity ordering provides the test result in its own particular unit of measure. The overall average S.I. value was calculated using the average gap and drop hammer values, and individual values from the remaining tests. PBXN-105 illustrates how deceptive relying on one test method result, or the average or several, could be. To aid in evaluating sensitivity test results, it appears that: (1) Explosives than can be pressed as well as cast should have separate identities since the pressed version may be markedly more sensitive; (2) Graphing % TMD versus for solid charge tests provides the user with information appropriate to his needs, and also reflects the degree of control of the test variables; (3) Drop hammer impact response is strongly influenced by the most sensitive ingredient in an explosive, do not expect it to agree with a solid charge test method; and (4) Aluminizing a composition may or may not sensitize it, depends on the test method. This approach to developing a feel for initiation susceptibility, by consensus of opinion of the test methods, expressed in a common unit of measure, is a single, straight-forward (at least to this non-sensitivity test expert) means of conveying a considerable amount of useable information to those who need it most - at the working level.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADP000488
Entities
People
- Robert Petersen