O-209 Large Caliber Projectile Fill Adherence

There is currently no agreed standard methodology for assessing the suitability of explosives for gun launch or for the determination of acceptance criteria for explosive fill defects. As a result, the NATO AC/326 SG/A Gun Launch Setback Ignition Study Working Group (WG) was formed during 2017. The purpose of the working group is to gather background information on types of defects, laboratory testing, gun launch conditions and their relation to safety for gun launch of munitions. As a community we need to gather information on what we believe are the important aspects related to this technical area, and develop standardized assessments and processes. This effort should be greatly beneficial for the safety and technical understanding of setback ignition.

 

As a result of discussions within the working group, it has become clear that there are varying opinions and very little data as to whether and when a projectile fill should be manufactured with the aim to adhere or not adhere to the projectile interior surface. As a result, a review of fill adherence technology for large caliber projectiles was conducted. In particular, technologies associated with the non-adherence of cast cure explosives was investigated. Less information on the adherence or non-adherence of pressed and melt pour explosives was found. This topic is under ongoing discussion within the WG.