Launch Dynamics of the 120-MM M831A1 Heat Training Projectile
Abstract
The M831A1 is the high explosive anti-tank (HEAT) training round used in the 120 mm M256 gun system of the MI tank. This projectile has been in production for several years and while it typically performs very well, anomalies are occasionally observed. Since this is a training projectile, large numbers are fired each year. As a result, there is constant pressure to reduce the cost of procurement. In order to understand and improve the performance of the 120 mm M831A1 projectile, a gun-projectile dynamics study was undertaken using the U.S. Army Research Laboratory's (ARL) gun-projectile dynamics simulation codes. The goals of the study were to determine the baseline launch dynamics of the projectile, investigate the performance effects of projectile position in the forcing cone, examine the sealing abilities of the obturator and sealing ring, and examine the effects of worn tubes. The results show the M831A1's dynamic path differs from its kinetic energy counterpart, the M865, and the general launch state of the projectile. The results also show the projectile's variability at muzzle-exit can he affected by the projectile's initial location in the forcing cone and that the projectile is sensitive to erosion in the M256 gun tube. The sealing ability of the obturator and rubber seal are presented to show that while there are differences in the initial seal, the primary seal is obtained. Finally, an explanation is given for erratic discard of the obturator band.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 26, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADP012464
Entities
People
- C. P. Hoppel
- J. F. Newill
- J. Garner
- K. Soencksen
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory