CA2563392C - Cartridge munition, particularly one of medium calibre - Google Patents
Cartridge munition, particularly one of medium calibre Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2563392C CA2563392C CA2563392A CA2563392A CA2563392C CA 2563392 C CA2563392 C CA 2563392C CA 2563392 A CA2563392 A CA 2563392A CA 2563392 A CA2563392 A CA 2563392A CA 2563392 C CA2563392 C CA 2563392C
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- Prior art keywords
- cartridge
- projectile
- cartridge shell
- munition
- propulsive
- Prior art date
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- 239000004429 Calibre Substances 0.000 title 1
- 230000001141 propulsive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 36
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- JCXGWMGPZLAOME-UHFFFAOYSA-N bismuth atom Chemical compound [Bi] JCXGWMGPZLAOME-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- 229910001152 Bi alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910001128 Sn alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Tin Chemical compound [Sn] ATJFFYVFTNAWJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052797 bismuth Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims 1
- 239000011343 solid material Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000000155 melt Substances 0.000 abstract description 4
- 230000003111 delayed effect Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010304 firing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003449 preventive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000700 radioactive tracer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001960 triggered effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B39/00—Packaging or storage of ammunition or explosive charges; Safety features thereof; Cartridge belts or bags
- F42B39/14—Explosion or fire protection arrangements on packages or ammunition
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B39/00—Packaging or storage of ammunition or explosive charges; Safety features thereof; Cartridge belts or bags
- F42B39/20—Packages or ammunition having valves for pressure-equalising; Packages or ammunition having plugs for pressure release, e.g. meltable ; Blow-out panels; Venting arrangements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B39/00—Packaging or storage of ammunition or explosive charges; Safety features thereof; Cartridge belts or bags
- F42B39/14—Explosion or fire protection arrangements on packages or ammunition
- F42B39/18—Heat shields; Thermal insulation
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B8/00—Practice or training ammunition
- F42B8/12—Projectiles or missiles
- F42B8/18—Rifle grenades
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
- Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
- Safety Valves (AREA)
- Details Of Aerials (AREA)
- Fire-Extinguishing By Fire Departments, And Fire-Extinguishing Equipment And Control Thereof (AREA)
Abstract
A cartridge munition, particularly practice round, includes a cartridge shell (3) and a projectile (2) inserted into it. A propulsion chamber (4) is provided within the cartridge shell that receives a propulsive charge (5) that may be ignited by means of a pyrotechnic igniter (13) and that develops propulsive gases that act on the base (8) of the projectile, driving it out of the cartridge shell. In order to prevent the pyrotechnic igniter from igniting spontaneously, and from igniting the propulsive charge (5) because of the ambient temperature or because of a fire, which would cause the cartridge shell and projectile to be separated and fly apart, it is proposed by the invention to provide exhaust channels (14) between the propulsion chamber and the exterior of the cartridge shell (3) that are filled with a fusible material, particularly a fusible metal (15). The fusible material has a lower melting point than the ignition point of the igniter (13) and of the propulsive. charge (5). If the ambient temperature of the cartridge shell rises above the melting point of the fusible material, it melts, releasing the exhaust channels (14), so that, upon delayed ignition of the propulsive charge, it burns without pressure buildup, and the cartridge shell and projectile remain together.
Description
CARTRIDGE MUNITION, PARTICULARLY ONE OF MEDIUM CALIBER
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a cartridge munition, particularly to one of medium caliber, and here particularly to a practice round, with a cartridge shell and a projectile inserted into it, and with the cartridge shell mechanically attached to the projectile. A propulsion chamber is provided at the base of the cartridge shell to receive a propulsive charge that, for example, may be ignited using an igniter cap. After ignition, the propulsive gases from the propulsive charge act on the base of the projectile so that, after release of the mechanical bond between cartridge shell and projectile, the projectile is driven out of the cartridge shell.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Such a cartridge munition is described in the U.S. Patent No.
5,936,189. This cartridge munition is used with rapid-fire weapons of medium caliber (about 40mm). Many such cartridges are received into a belt that is fed to the rapid-fire weapon. The propulsion chamber in the cartridge shell is sub-divided into a high-pressure chamber into which the propulsive charge is placed and a low-pressure chamber that is connected with the high-pressure chamber via exhaust apertures. Cartridge shell and projectile are mechanically connected via a central threaded connection that is formed as an intended-break point.
When the propulsive charge is ignited pyrotechnically in the high-pressure chamber by means of an igniter cap, the propulsive.
charge burns and propulsive gases are created at high pressure that then act on the projectile base in both chambers, eventually driving the projectile out of the cartridge shell, after the intended-break point between cartridge shell and projectile is broken-A similar cartridge munition is described in the U.S. Patent No.
4,892,038.
Furthermore, practice rounds of this type are known in which only a low-pressure propulsion chamber is provided; such cartridges are known as low-velocity cartridges (Low Velocity Ammunition).
Such cartridge munitions are used in large quantities, and must both be safely stored and safely transported from the manufacturer to the user. Storage and transport are generally performed using larger cases, e.g., metal oases that hold a large quantity of such cartridges.
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a cartridge munition, particularly to one of medium caliber, and here particularly to a practice round, with a cartridge shell and a projectile inserted into it, and with the cartridge shell mechanically attached to the projectile. A propulsion chamber is provided at the base of the cartridge shell to receive a propulsive charge that, for example, may be ignited using an igniter cap. After ignition, the propulsive gases from the propulsive charge act on the base of the projectile so that, after release of the mechanical bond between cartridge shell and projectile, the projectile is driven out of the cartridge shell.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Such a cartridge munition is described in the U.S. Patent No.
5,936,189. This cartridge munition is used with rapid-fire weapons of medium caliber (about 40mm). Many such cartridges are received into a belt that is fed to the rapid-fire weapon. The propulsion chamber in the cartridge shell is sub-divided into a high-pressure chamber into which the propulsive charge is placed and a low-pressure chamber that is connected with the high-pressure chamber via exhaust apertures. Cartridge shell and projectile are mechanically connected via a central threaded connection that is formed as an intended-break point.
When the propulsive charge is ignited pyrotechnically in the high-pressure chamber by means of an igniter cap, the propulsive.
charge burns and propulsive gases are created at high pressure that then act on the projectile base in both chambers, eventually driving the projectile out of the cartridge shell, after the intended-break point between cartridge shell and projectile is broken-A similar cartridge munition is described in the U.S. Patent No.
4,892,038.
Furthermore, practice rounds of this type are known in which only a low-pressure propulsion chamber is provided; such cartridges are known as low-velocity cartridges (Low Velocity Ammunition).
Such cartridge munitions are used in large quantities, and must both be safely stored and safely transported from the manufacturer to the user. Storage and transport are generally performed using larger cases, e.g., metal oases that hold a large quantity of such cartridges.
In spite of the considerable quantity of igniter material for igniter caps and propulsive charge located within a storage or transport container, storage and transport are generally simple.
However, a fire in the storage or transport system during which temperatures reach and exceed 220 C presents a risk.
At such temperatures, the pyrotechnic igniter charge of the igniter cap 'combusts spontaneously, igniting in turn the propulsive charge that otherwise would have ignited at a temperature from 320 C to 400 C_ After the propulsive charge ignites, as during regular firing, enough pressure develops in the propulsion chamber to act on the base of the projectile eventually to rupture the mechanical connection between cartridge shell and projectile, causing them to fly apart explosively.
Significant damage may result simply from the quantity of exploded propulsive charges of a large number of cartridges.
However, the cartridge shell and projectile may cause great damage while flying apart. Cartridge shell and projectile here act quasi as projectiles. Any receiver containers involved will be destroyed, whereby the separated cartridge shells and projectiles may endanger humans and cause major mechanical damage-During testing, such cartridges are placed into a heater, and heat is gradually supplied to the heater. After the igniter-cap ignition temperature of about 220 C is reached, as illustrated, the igniter cap and thereby the propulsive charge of the cartridges are ignited. The cartridge shell and projectile were blown apart and thrown up to 100 meters as a result of the pressure buildup in the propulsion chamber, so that the energy released when many such cartridges catch fire is considerable.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
It is the object of some embodiments of the invention to present measures intended to prevent separation of the cartridge shell from the projectile when there is a sharp increase in ambient temperature above the ignition temperature of the pyrotechnic igniter charge.
Another object of some embodiments of the invention is to present measures intended to prevent damage to the environment caused by a collection of many such cartridges, e.g., in a storage or transport container, upon sharp increase in ambient temperature such as caused by a fire.
Another object of some embodiments of the invention is to weaken the effect of the main charge after ignition of the igniter charge so that neither large pressure damage nor major mechanical damage results.
Yet another object of some embodiments of the invention is to so configure the cartridge munition that the characteristics of the cartridge munition are not influenced by these preventive measures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to some embodiments of the invention, it is recommended that a cartridge munition consisting of a projectile and a cartridge shell, possessing a propulsion chamber to provide passages that exit from the propulsion chamber and penetrate the wall of the cartridge shell, to be filled with a solid, pressure-tight fusible filler material whose melting point is lower than the minimum ignition temperature of any pyrotechnic charge in the munition, i.e., lower than the ignition temperature of the pyrotechnic igniter charge and the propulsive charge.
Such a fusible material is preferably a fusible metal. Such fusible metals include alloys of bismuth and tin, whereby other metals such as lead etc. may be included.
If a cartridge of the type under discussion is heated to the melting temperature of the fusible material or metal, for example, 180 C, then the fusible material in the passages within the cartridge shell that connect the propulsion chamber to the outside melts. If the temperature continues to increase and the igniter cap and thereby the propulsive charge are ignited, then no pressure may build up within the propulsion chamber because the freed passages function as pressure-relief apertures. The result is that propulsive charge merely burns, whereby the propulsive gases thus created may escape via the pressure-relief apertures. Cartridge shells and projectiles are thus not separated from each other, so that neither pressure damage nor mechanical damage may occur.
This was confirmed by a test in which a large quantity of such cartridges was placed into a conventional transport box made of lead. The lead box was not damaged even once-The passages between the propulsive charge and the outside of the cartridge shell may be configured in many different ways:
e.g., the housing of the igniter cap may be made of such a fusible material or metal; also, pressure-relief apertures around the igniter cap that are filled with the fusible material are a possibility. Either two or four apertures are recommended for this embodiment. Another option is to provide apertures from the propulsion chamber penetrating the sidewall of the cartridge shell.
However configured, the passages must be so shaped that during a normal shot of the projectile out of the cartridge shell, the fusible material withstands the high pressures within the propulsion chamber.
Resistance to pressure may be increased by configuring the passages to be conical, decreasing toward the outside, as stepped or threaded holes, etc.
In accordance with an aspect of this invention, there is provided a cartridge munition with a cartridge shell and a projectile inserted into the cartridge shell and mechanically connected to it whereby a pyrotechnic propulsive charge is located in a propulsion chamber of the cartridge shell that is ignited by means of a pyrotechnic igniter, and whose propulsive gases exert a force on the base of the projectile when they burn, by means of which the projectile is driven out of the cartridge shell, wherein channels exit from the propulsion chamber that penetrate the cartridge shell and that are filled with a fusible, solid, pressure-tight material whose melting temperature is lower than the ignition temperatures of the pyrotechnic igniter and the propulsion charge of the projectile and that the channels narrow as they progress from the base of the propulsion chamber to the exit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
The invention will be explained in greater detail using illustrations of embodiments, which show:
Figure 1 a longitudinal section through a cartridge munition consisting of a projectile and a cartridge shell that incorporates a propulsion chamber with a propulsive charge whereby, according to the invention, pressure-relief apertures are provided between the propulsion chamber and the outer wall of the cartridge shell that receive a fusible metal, and in this case possess a conical progression;
Figure 2 a second embodiment of a cartridge munition with stepped pressure-relief apertures between the propulsion chamber and the outer wall of the cartridge shell;
and Figure 3 a third embodiment according to the invention whereby the housing of an igniter cap for the propulsive charge is made of a fusible metal.
However, a fire in the storage or transport system during which temperatures reach and exceed 220 C presents a risk.
At such temperatures, the pyrotechnic igniter charge of the igniter cap 'combusts spontaneously, igniting in turn the propulsive charge that otherwise would have ignited at a temperature from 320 C to 400 C_ After the propulsive charge ignites, as during regular firing, enough pressure develops in the propulsion chamber to act on the base of the projectile eventually to rupture the mechanical connection between cartridge shell and projectile, causing them to fly apart explosively.
Significant damage may result simply from the quantity of exploded propulsive charges of a large number of cartridges.
However, the cartridge shell and projectile may cause great damage while flying apart. Cartridge shell and projectile here act quasi as projectiles. Any receiver containers involved will be destroyed, whereby the separated cartridge shells and projectiles may endanger humans and cause major mechanical damage-During testing, such cartridges are placed into a heater, and heat is gradually supplied to the heater. After the igniter-cap ignition temperature of about 220 C is reached, as illustrated, the igniter cap and thereby the propulsive charge of the cartridges are ignited. The cartridge shell and projectile were blown apart and thrown up to 100 meters as a result of the pressure buildup in the propulsion chamber, so that the energy released when many such cartridges catch fire is considerable.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
It is the object of some embodiments of the invention to present measures intended to prevent separation of the cartridge shell from the projectile when there is a sharp increase in ambient temperature above the ignition temperature of the pyrotechnic igniter charge.
Another object of some embodiments of the invention is to present measures intended to prevent damage to the environment caused by a collection of many such cartridges, e.g., in a storage or transport container, upon sharp increase in ambient temperature such as caused by a fire.
Another object of some embodiments of the invention is to weaken the effect of the main charge after ignition of the igniter charge so that neither large pressure damage nor major mechanical damage results.
Yet another object of some embodiments of the invention is to so configure the cartridge munition that the characteristics of the cartridge munition are not influenced by these preventive measures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to some embodiments of the invention, it is recommended that a cartridge munition consisting of a projectile and a cartridge shell, possessing a propulsion chamber to provide passages that exit from the propulsion chamber and penetrate the wall of the cartridge shell, to be filled with a solid, pressure-tight fusible filler material whose melting point is lower than the minimum ignition temperature of any pyrotechnic charge in the munition, i.e., lower than the ignition temperature of the pyrotechnic igniter charge and the propulsive charge.
Such a fusible material is preferably a fusible metal. Such fusible metals include alloys of bismuth and tin, whereby other metals such as lead etc. may be included.
If a cartridge of the type under discussion is heated to the melting temperature of the fusible material or metal, for example, 180 C, then the fusible material in the passages within the cartridge shell that connect the propulsion chamber to the outside melts. If the temperature continues to increase and the igniter cap and thereby the propulsive charge are ignited, then no pressure may build up within the propulsion chamber because the freed passages function as pressure-relief apertures. The result is that propulsive charge merely burns, whereby the propulsive gases thus created may escape via the pressure-relief apertures. Cartridge shells and projectiles are thus not separated from each other, so that neither pressure damage nor mechanical damage may occur.
This was confirmed by a test in which a large quantity of such cartridges was placed into a conventional transport box made of lead. The lead box was not damaged even once-The passages between the propulsive charge and the outside of the cartridge shell may be configured in many different ways:
e.g., the housing of the igniter cap may be made of such a fusible material or metal; also, pressure-relief apertures around the igniter cap that are filled with the fusible material are a possibility. Either two or four apertures are recommended for this embodiment. Another option is to provide apertures from the propulsion chamber penetrating the sidewall of the cartridge shell.
However configured, the passages must be so shaped that during a normal shot of the projectile out of the cartridge shell, the fusible material withstands the high pressures within the propulsion chamber.
Resistance to pressure may be increased by configuring the passages to be conical, decreasing toward the outside, as stepped or threaded holes, etc.
In accordance with an aspect of this invention, there is provided a cartridge munition with a cartridge shell and a projectile inserted into the cartridge shell and mechanically connected to it whereby a pyrotechnic propulsive charge is located in a propulsion chamber of the cartridge shell that is ignited by means of a pyrotechnic igniter, and whose propulsive gases exert a force on the base of the projectile when they burn, by means of which the projectile is driven out of the cartridge shell, wherein channels exit from the propulsion chamber that penetrate the cartridge shell and that are filled with a fusible, solid, pressure-tight material whose melting temperature is lower than the ignition temperatures of the pyrotechnic igniter and the propulsion charge of the projectile and that the channels narrow as they progress from the base of the propulsion chamber to the exit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
The invention will be explained in greater detail using illustrations of embodiments, which show:
Figure 1 a longitudinal section through a cartridge munition consisting of a projectile and a cartridge shell that incorporates a propulsion chamber with a propulsive charge whereby, according to the invention, pressure-relief apertures are provided between the propulsion chamber and the outer wall of the cartridge shell that receive a fusible metal, and in this case possess a conical progression;
Figure 2 a second embodiment of a cartridge munition with stepped pressure-relief apertures between the propulsion chamber and the outer wall of the cartridge shell;
and Figure 3 a third embodiment according to the invention whereby the housing of an igniter cap for the propulsive charge is made of a fusible metal.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A cartridge munition 1 shown in Figure 1 consists of a projectile 2 and a cartridge shell 3. The cartridge shell 3 includes a propulsion chamber 4 in which a propulsive charge 5 is positioned.
The wall of the propulsion chamber 4 is provided with overflow openings 6 that feed into a low-pressure chamber 7 positioned below the projectile base 8. The propulsion chamber 4 is provided with a central threaded stud 9 that engages in an inner thread in the projectile base. In addition, a tracer composition 11 is connected with the projectile base 8 that extends through the threaded stud 9 into the propulsion chamber.
The cartridge 1 possesses a caliber of from 40mm, for example, and is fired from a tube weapon (not shown) with a twist, for which purpose the projectile possesses a guide- or twist-band (indicated only).
The propulsive charge 5 is ignited pyrotechnically by means of an igniter cap 13 whereby the igniter cap 13 is mounted in the center of the base of the cartridge shell 3.
Passages are provided between the propulsion chamber 4 and the lower base of the cartridge shell 3, in this case conical channels 14 that decrease in size as approach the base of the cartridge shell. The channels 14 possess a diameter of 7mm for a 40mm-caliber projectile, for example, and narrow down to about 6mm.
For example, two or three or four channels 14 are provided, symmetrical to the central line of the projectile and to the igniter cap, that are positioned around the igniter cap.
The passages 14 are filled with a fusible metal 15. ThIF fusible metal is, for example, a bismuth/tin alloy with 30 to 40%
bismuth by weight and 60 to 70% tin by weight. Depending on the blend, the melting point of this alloy lies between about 140 and 175 C. The alloy is impact--resistant and not soluble in water-The fusible metal 15 is cast into the channels 14 after appropriate heating, or conical rivets are made of the fusible metal that are then driven or screwed into the channels 14.
The propulsion chamber is tight and pressure-resistant toward the exterior by means of the fusible metal 15 so that the cartridge 1 may be fired from a tube weapon in the same way as a conventional cartridge- The conical shape of the channels prevents the fusible metal 15 from being forced from the channels 14 by the high pressure in the propulsion chamber.
As mentioned above, when the ambient temperature near the cartridges rises to 140 to 175 C as the result of a fire, for example, then the fusible material 15 within the channels 14 melts, freeing them- When the temperature of the igniter cap 13 then continues to rise to above about 220 C, it ignites, also igniting the propulsive charge 5- The propulsive gases, created when the propulsive charge burns, may be diverted without consequence through the free channels 14, so that no pressure may build up within the propulsion chamber, and therefore the propulsive charge 5 is also not triggered. Cartridge shell 3 and projectile 2 further remain mechanically connected via the threads 9 and 10 so that no major damage can occur, neither because of high pressure nor because of separation of the cartridge shell and the projectile.
Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section through a cartridge shell 3 and a portion of the projectile 2; cartridge shell and projectile are constructed the same as in Figure 1 up to the channels 14 with the fusible metal 15_ in this case, the channels are stepped drillings into which the fusible metal 15 is cast. Here also, the fusible metal may either be cast at the time of cartridge manufacture or threaded in, if the channels and the fusible metal are provided with threads.
Also in this embodiment, the pressure-relief channels 14, as shown, are positioned either on both sides of the central igniter cap 13 or in any other configuration around the igniter cap.
This cartridge may also be fired in the same way as a conventional cartridge. In case of fire or similar problem, the function is the same as described by Figure 1.
Figure 3 shows another version of a cartridge whereby only the cartridge shell 3 and a portion of the projectile 2 are shown, as in Figure 2. The cartridge shell 3 is constructed the same way in the area of the propulsion chamber as in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2.
In this case, the igniter cap 13 is inserted into an igniter-cap housing 14' that may be threaded into the base of the cartridge shell 3 in a charge opening 14. The igniter-cap housing 14' consists of the aforementioned fusible metal 15.
If during a fire, for example, the ambient temperature increases above the melting point of the fusible metal 15, then the igniter-cap housing 14' melts and frees a pressure-relief channel corresponding to the charge opening 14 between the base of the propulsion chamber and the base of the cartridge shell. If the igniter cap then ignites because of increasing temperature, thereby igniting the propulsive charge 5, then it merely burns out without pressure being allowed to increase, so that the cartridge shell and projectile are not separated. Pressure damage and major mechanical damage are prevented.
In the previous text, even if the pressure-relief channels 14 extend from the base of the propulsion chamber to the outer base of the cartridge shell, it is routine for the specialist to configure these channels otherwise, e.g., routing them through the sidewall of the cartridge shell and the propulsion chamber.
It is also possible, of course, to use other low-melting-point materials instead of the bismuth/tin alloy mentioned as long as it is strong enough to seal the pressure-relief channels completely so that a normal shot is possible from a tube weapon.
Even though the previous description concerned the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be apparent to the specialist that alterations and modifications to the embodiments are possible without deviating from the scope of the claims.
A cartridge munition 1 shown in Figure 1 consists of a projectile 2 and a cartridge shell 3. The cartridge shell 3 includes a propulsion chamber 4 in which a propulsive charge 5 is positioned.
The wall of the propulsion chamber 4 is provided with overflow openings 6 that feed into a low-pressure chamber 7 positioned below the projectile base 8. The propulsion chamber 4 is provided with a central threaded stud 9 that engages in an inner thread in the projectile base. In addition, a tracer composition 11 is connected with the projectile base 8 that extends through the threaded stud 9 into the propulsion chamber.
The cartridge 1 possesses a caliber of from 40mm, for example, and is fired from a tube weapon (not shown) with a twist, for which purpose the projectile possesses a guide- or twist-band (indicated only).
The propulsive charge 5 is ignited pyrotechnically by means of an igniter cap 13 whereby the igniter cap 13 is mounted in the center of the base of the cartridge shell 3.
Passages are provided between the propulsion chamber 4 and the lower base of the cartridge shell 3, in this case conical channels 14 that decrease in size as approach the base of the cartridge shell. The channels 14 possess a diameter of 7mm for a 40mm-caliber projectile, for example, and narrow down to about 6mm.
For example, two or three or four channels 14 are provided, symmetrical to the central line of the projectile and to the igniter cap, that are positioned around the igniter cap.
The passages 14 are filled with a fusible metal 15. ThIF fusible metal is, for example, a bismuth/tin alloy with 30 to 40%
bismuth by weight and 60 to 70% tin by weight. Depending on the blend, the melting point of this alloy lies between about 140 and 175 C. The alloy is impact--resistant and not soluble in water-The fusible metal 15 is cast into the channels 14 after appropriate heating, or conical rivets are made of the fusible metal that are then driven or screwed into the channels 14.
The propulsion chamber is tight and pressure-resistant toward the exterior by means of the fusible metal 15 so that the cartridge 1 may be fired from a tube weapon in the same way as a conventional cartridge- The conical shape of the channels prevents the fusible metal 15 from being forced from the channels 14 by the high pressure in the propulsion chamber.
As mentioned above, when the ambient temperature near the cartridges rises to 140 to 175 C as the result of a fire, for example, then the fusible material 15 within the channels 14 melts, freeing them- When the temperature of the igniter cap 13 then continues to rise to above about 220 C, it ignites, also igniting the propulsive charge 5- The propulsive gases, created when the propulsive charge burns, may be diverted without consequence through the free channels 14, so that no pressure may build up within the propulsion chamber, and therefore the propulsive charge 5 is also not triggered. Cartridge shell 3 and projectile 2 further remain mechanically connected via the threads 9 and 10 so that no major damage can occur, neither because of high pressure nor because of separation of the cartridge shell and the projectile.
Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section through a cartridge shell 3 and a portion of the projectile 2; cartridge shell and projectile are constructed the same as in Figure 1 up to the channels 14 with the fusible metal 15_ in this case, the channels are stepped drillings into which the fusible metal 15 is cast. Here also, the fusible metal may either be cast at the time of cartridge manufacture or threaded in, if the channels and the fusible metal are provided with threads.
Also in this embodiment, the pressure-relief channels 14, as shown, are positioned either on both sides of the central igniter cap 13 or in any other configuration around the igniter cap.
This cartridge may also be fired in the same way as a conventional cartridge. In case of fire or similar problem, the function is the same as described by Figure 1.
Figure 3 shows another version of a cartridge whereby only the cartridge shell 3 and a portion of the projectile 2 are shown, as in Figure 2. The cartridge shell 3 is constructed the same way in the area of the propulsion chamber as in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2.
In this case, the igniter cap 13 is inserted into an igniter-cap housing 14' that may be threaded into the base of the cartridge shell 3 in a charge opening 14. The igniter-cap housing 14' consists of the aforementioned fusible metal 15.
If during a fire, for example, the ambient temperature increases above the melting point of the fusible metal 15, then the igniter-cap housing 14' melts and frees a pressure-relief channel corresponding to the charge opening 14 between the base of the propulsion chamber and the base of the cartridge shell. If the igniter cap then ignites because of increasing temperature, thereby igniting the propulsive charge 5, then it merely burns out without pressure being allowed to increase, so that the cartridge shell and projectile are not separated. Pressure damage and major mechanical damage are prevented.
In the previous text, even if the pressure-relief channels 14 extend from the base of the propulsion chamber to the outer base of the cartridge shell, it is routine for the specialist to configure these channels otherwise, e.g., routing them through the sidewall of the cartridge shell and the propulsion chamber.
It is also possible, of course, to use other low-melting-point materials instead of the bismuth/tin alloy mentioned as long as it is strong enough to seal the pressure-relief channels completely so that a normal shot is possible from a tube weapon.
Even though the previous description concerned the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be apparent to the specialist that alterations and modifications to the embodiments are possible without deviating from the scope of the claims.
Claims (10)
1. A cartridge munition with a cartridge shell and a projectile inserted into the cartridge shell and mechanically connected to it whereby a pyrotechnic propulsive charge is located in a propulsion chamber of the cartridge shell that is ignited by means of a pyrotechnic igniter, and whose propulsive gases exert a force on the base of the projectile when they burn, by means of which the projectile is driven out of the cartridge shell, wherein channels exit from the propulsion chamber that penetrate the cartridge shell and that are filled with a fusible, solid, pressure-tight material whose melting temperature is lower than the ignition temperatures of the pyrotechnic igniter and the propulsion charge of the projectile and that the channels narrow as they progress from the base of the propulsion chamber to the exit.
2. The cartridge munition of claim 1, wherein the channels extend from the base of the propulsion chamber to the outer base of the cartridge shell.
3. The cartridge munition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the channels narrow conically.
4. The cartridge munition of claim 2, wherein the channels are stepped drillings.
5. The cartridge munition of claim 2, wherein the channels are positioned around the igniter of the propulsive charge.
6. The cartridge munition of claim 5, wherein the pyrotechnic igniter includes a housing that is inserted into the base of the cartridge shell and that extends into the propulsion chamber.
7. The cartridge munition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fusible solid material is a fusible metal.
8. The cartridge munition of claim 7, wherein the fusible material is a metal alloy of at least bismuth and tin.
9. The cartridge munition of claim 8 wherein the fusible material is a bismuth/tin alloy with 30 to 40% bismuth by weight and 60 to 70% tin by weight, the alloy having a melting point between 140 and 175°C.
10. The cartridge munition of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the munition is of medium caliber.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102004017465 | 2004-04-08 | ||
DE102004017465.2 | 2004-04-08 | ||
DE102004020838.7 | 2004-04-28 | ||
DE102004020838A DE102004020838B3 (en) | 2004-04-08 | 2004-04-28 | Medium-caliber cartridge munition used for practice, includes passages through casing from chamber containing propellant charge, which are filled with melting alloy |
PCT/DE2005/000628 WO2005098348A1 (en) | 2004-04-08 | 2005-04-08 | Cartridged ammunition, especially of an average caliber |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2563392A1 CA2563392A1 (en) | 2005-10-20 |
CA2563392C true CA2563392C (en) | 2012-06-19 |
Family
ID=34968622
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA2563392A Active CA2563392C (en) | 2004-04-08 | 2005-04-08 | Cartridge munition, particularly one of medium calibre |
Country Status (8)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1735584B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR101253784B1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2005230669B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2563392C (en) |
ES (1) | ES2357845T3 (en) |
NO (1) | NO333593B1 (en) |
PL (1) | PL1735584T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2005098348A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102007025981A1 (en) | 2007-06-04 | 2008-12-11 | Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh | Cartridge ammunition, in particular exercise ammunition |
US9366517B2 (en) * | 2008-01-22 | 2016-06-14 | Us Demil, Llc | Method and apparatus to demilitarize munition energetics |
DE102013000043A1 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2014-07-10 | Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh | ammunition box |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3665857A (en) * | 1970-11-23 | 1972-05-30 | Us Army | Base ejecting ordnance projectile |
DE3507643A1 (en) | 1985-03-05 | 1986-09-11 | Nico-Pyrotechnik Hanns-Jürgen Diederichs GmbH & Co KG, 2077 Trittau | CARTRIDGED AMMUNITION |
DE19527621A1 (en) * | 1995-07-28 | 1997-01-30 | Nico Pyrotechnik | Cartridge ammunition |
FR2811074B1 (en) * | 2000-06-30 | 2003-02-14 | Protac | DEVICE CONTROLLING THE BEHAVIOR OF A METAL ENCLOSURE, CONTAINING SPONTANEOUSLY FLAMMABLE MATERIALS, IN CASE OF EXTERNAL FIRE |
US6752085B2 (en) * | 2002-05-06 | 2004-06-22 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Method and apparatus for releasably attaching a closure plate to a casing |
-
2005
- 2005-04-08 CA CA2563392A patent/CA2563392C/en active Active
- 2005-04-08 AU AU2005230669A patent/AU2005230669B2/en active Active
- 2005-04-08 PL PL05746318T patent/PL1735584T3/en unknown
- 2005-04-08 KR KR1020067023188A patent/KR101253784B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2005-04-08 WO PCT/DE2005/000628 patent/WO2005098348A1/en active Application Filing
- 2005-04-08 ES ES05746318T patent/ES2357845T3/en active Active
- 2005-04-08 EP EP05746318A patent/EP1735584B1/en active Active
-
2006
- 2006-10-12 NO NO20064640A patent/NO333593B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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KR20070057706A (en) | 2007-06-07 |
AU2005230669A1 (en) | 2005-10-20 |
WO2005098348A8 (en) | 2007-06-07 |
AU2005230669B2 (en) | 2010-10-21 |
WO2005098348A1 (en) | 2005-10-20 |
CA2563392A1 (en) | 2005-10-20 |
KR101253784B1 (en) | 2013-04-12 |
PL1735584T3 (en) | 2011-05-31 |
ES2357845T3 (en) | 2011-05-03 |
NO333593B1 (en) | 2013-07-15 |
EP1735584B1 (en) | 2010-12-29 |
NO20064640L (en) | 2006-12-13 |
EP1735584A1 (en) | 2006-12-27 |
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