EP1185833B1 - Plasma torch incorporating a reactive priming fuse and igniter tube integrating such a torch - Google Patents

Plasma torch incorporating a reactive priming fuse and igniter tube integrating such a torch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1185833B1
EP1185833B1 EP01919602A EP01919602A EP1185833B1 EP 1185833 B1 EP1185833 B1 EP 1185833B1 EP 01919602 A EP01919602 A EP 01919602A EP 01919602 A EP01919602 A EP 01919602A EP 1185833 B1 EP1185833 B1 EP 1185833B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fuse
plasma torch
torch according
mass
conductive
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP01919602A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1185833A1 (en
Inventor
Luc Brunet
Jean Mary Lombard
Jean François PIERROT
Jean Luc Taillandier
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Giat Industries SA
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Giat Industries SA
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B5/00—Cartridge ammunition, e.g. separately-loaded propellant charges
    • F42B5/02—Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile
    • F42B5/18—Caseless ammunition; Cartridges having combustible cases
    • F42B5/181—Caseless ammunition; Cartridges having combustible cases consisting of a combustible casing wall and a metal base; Connectors therefor
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06B—EXPLOSIVES OR THERMIC COMPOSITIONS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS EXPLOSIVES
    • C06B27/00—Compositions containing a metal, boron, silicon, selenium or tellurium or mixtures, intercompounds or hydrides thereof, and hydrocarbons or halogenated hydrocarbons
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06B—EXPLOSIVES OR THERMIC COMPOSITIONS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS EXPLOSIVES
    • C06B33/00—Compositions containing particulate metal, alloy, boron, silicon, selenium or tellurium with at least one oxygen supplying material which is either a metal oxide or a salt, organic or inorganic, capable of yielding a metal oxide
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06B—EXPLOSIVES OR THERMIC COMPOSITIONS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS EXPLOSIVES
    • C06B45/00—Compositions or products which are defined by structure or arrangement of component of product
    • C06B45/12—Compositions or products which are defined by structure or arrangement of component of product having contiguous layers or zones
    • C06B45/14—Compositions or products which are defined by structure or arrangement of component of product having contiguous layers or zones a layer or zone containing an inorganic explosive or an inorganic explosive or an inorganic thermic component
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06C—DETONATING OR PRIMING DEVICES; FUSES; CHEMICAL LIGHTERS; PYROPHORIC COMPOSITIONS
    • C06C9/00—Chemical contact igniters; Chemical lighters
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06D—MEANS FOR GENERATING SMOKE OR MIST; GAS-ATTACK COMPOSITIONS; GENERATION OF GAS FOR BLASTING OR PROPULSION (CHEMICAL PART)
    • C06D5/00—Generation of pressure gas, e.g. for blasting cartridges, starting cartridges, rockets
    • C06D5/06—Generation of pressure gas, e.g. for blasting cartridges, starting cartridges, rockets by reaction of two or more solids
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B5/00—Cartridge ammunition, e.g. separately-loaded propellant charges
    • F42B5/02—Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile
    • F42B5/08—Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile modified for electric ignition
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C19/00—Details of fuzes
    • F42C19/08—Primers; Detonators
    • F42C19/0803—Primers; Detonators characterised by the combination of per se known chemical composition in the priming substance
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C19/00—Details of fuzes
    • F42C19/08—Primers; Detonators
    • F42C19/0811—Primers; Detonators characterised by the generation of a plasma for initiating the charge to be ignited
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C19/00—Details of fuzes
    • F42C19/08—Primers; Detonators
    • F42C19/0823—Primers or igniters for the initiation or the propellant charge in a cartridged ammunition
    • F42C19/0826—Primers or igniters for the initiation or the propellant charge in a cartridged ammunition comprising an elongated perforated tube, i.e. flame tube, for the transmission of the initial energy to the propellant charge, e.g. used for artillery shells and kinetic energy penetrators
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C19/00—Details of fuzes
    • F42C19/08—Primers; Detonators
    • F42C19/12—Primers; Detonators electric
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05H—PLASMA TECHNIQUE; PRODUCTION OF ACCELERATED ELECTRICALLY-CHARGED PARTICLES OR OF NEUTRONS; PRODUCTION OR ACCELERATION OF NEUTRAL MOLECULAR OR ATOMIC BEAMS
    • H05H1/00—Generating plasma; Handling plasma
    • H05H1/24—Generating plasma
    • H05H1/52—Generating plasma using exploding wires or spark gaps

Definitions

  • the technical field of the invention is that of torches plasma and more particularly torches used for ensure the ignition of a propellant charge of a munition.
  • a plasma torch is a system that can generate high pressure gases (of the order of 500 MPa) and at high temperature (above 10000 K) from a discharge electrical high voltage (of the order of 20 kV) caused between two electrodes.
  • Plasma torches are used in the industry for for example, cutting conductive materials, or still to destroy certain products or materials, or to make metal deposits. They are also used in the field of armament to generate a pressure allowing the firing of a projectile.
  • the known plasma torches comprise an anode and a cathode separated by a capillary tube made in one material that is both electrical insulator and susceptible to decompose to generate a plasma (for example a plastic material).
  • the electric discharge between anode and cathode is primed by means of a copper or other fuse conductive material.
  • the electric arc thus created causes a plasma which carries out the ablation of the wall of the capillary tube, which leads to the generation of light gases at high pressure and high temperature.
  • These gases are used to either directly accelerate a projectile, either to vaporize a working fluid (for example of water) which increases the volume of gas.
  • patents FR2754969 and FR2768810 which describe plasma torches used for initiate a propellant loading of ammunition, according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • a disadvantage of known plasma torches is the fragility of the fuse wire for priming the plasma.
  • a such fuse wire has a diameter of 0.1 to 0.5mm. It is likely to break as a result of the constraints thermal and mechanical (vibration, shock) that occur during the phases of storage or implementation of the elements of ammunition.
  • Patent EP 949 224 discloses a method of making an object from a granular material and including an igniter tube for artillery ammunition or a propellant charge made from this process.
  • the igniter tube thus comprises an energetic material (powder black, explosive or redox pyrotechnic composition) which is coated with a binder.
  • Such a tube is in no way likely to be used as a plasma torch does not have electrodes and provides for initiation by means of a wire having a pyrotechnic mixture.
  • a torch to plasma comprising a fuse made in the form of a tube of porous aluminum. It can possibly contain a energy fluid which is then dispersed with the plasma through the propulsive charge.
  • This fuse occupies a large volume and requires a certain level of energy to vaporize and start an arc of plasma. This results in difficulties in integrating a such torch in a combat vehicle where resources in electrical energy are necessarily reduced. This is the purpose of the invention to overcome such disadvantages.
  • the torch according to the invention has a resistance to mechanical stresses improved which increases its reliability.
  • it is simple in structure and can be manufactured cheaply.
  • the torch according to the invention incorporates a fuse with reduced mass and requiring a level of energy reduced to be vaporized.
  • this fuse associates at least one conductive material and at least one energy or reactive material that is to say susceptible react with the conductive material.
  • the mass total fuse used is very small (of the order a few hundred milligrams). It consumes so little energy but enough to initiate the energetic material or to initiate the reaction of a suitable reactive material with the conductive material.
  • the flame thus produced is a conductive medium that allows the maintenance of the arc between the electrodes of the torch with a minimum supply voltage (of the order of 1000 volts for 10 cm of air gap, while known torches operate between 10 KV and 30 KV for 10 cm of air gap).
  • the torch according to the invention can be produced without difficulty with very different lengths.
  • the torch according to the invention can be produced without difficulty with very different lengths.
  • the subject of the invention is also an igniter tube for ammunition incorporating such a plasma torch.
  • the invention relates to a plasma torch comprising at least two electrodes separated by a case cylindrical insulator delimiting an internal volume, electrodes connected by a conductive ignition fuse arranged in the internal volume, torch characterized in that the fuse comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least an energetic material or capable of reacting with the conductive material, the conductive material under the powder or particle form is mixed with energy material or capable of reacting with the conductive material, either in the form of a deposited layer on at least a part of the energetic material or likely to react with the conductive material.
  • the conductive material will consist of carbon or good a metal.
  • the fuse can thus be made of a mixture homogenous combining 6 to 40% by mass of powder of material 60 to 94% by weight of an energetic material or very likely to react with the conductive material.
  • the fuse can thus be made of a mixture homogeneous mixture of 10 to 40% by weight of copper powder and preferably 20%, 60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining magnesium, polytetrafluoroethylene and copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene, and preferably 80%.
  • the material conductor may form at least one deposited layer on least part of the energy material or susceptible to react with the conductive material.
  • the fuse can thus comprise at least one layer conductor of aluminum or magnesium deposited on a reactive layer of polytetrafluoroethylene, or nitrocellulose or polyvinyl nitrate, or oxide of copper or chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, or polyoxymethylene, or trifluoroethylene polychloride, or polysulfone, or polyvinylidene fluoride.
  • the dimensions of the different layers will be chosen as we associate 85 to 95 parts by mass of the material of the conductive layer at 5 to 15 parts by weight of the materials of the reactive layer or layers.
  • the fuse may include at least one layer of aluminum and at least one layer of copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene.
  • the fuse may also include least one layer of a flame enhancer material.
  • the flame enhancer material may be the polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.
  • the mass of the flame reinforcing material can represent between 15 and 25 parts by mass added to other fuse materials.
  • the fuse may advantageously be in the form of a tube disposed in the internal volume.
  • the cylindrical insulating case can be arranged in a conductive tubular body electrically connected to a electrode, the conductive tubular body being covered on at least a portion of its outer surface by an insulator.
  • the subject of the invention is also an igniter tube for ammunition comprising at least one such plasma torch.
  • the rear portion 2b of the body 2 has a diameter widened to form a stop collar facilitating fixing the torch in a bore of a support (no shown) for example an ammunition base.
  • a support for example an ammunition base.
  • the body 2 carries a thread 4.
  • the body 2 has an axial bore 5 on the inside which is disposed a cylindrical insulating case 6 made of a plastic material likely to settle, that is to say to generate light gases by the action of a plasma.
  • a cylindrical insulating case 6 made of a plastic material likely to settle, that is to say to generate light gases by the action of a plasma.
  • the case 6 polyethylene, in polyoxymethylene or polytetrafluoroethylene.
  • Such a case is usually called capillary in the known plasma torches.
  • a globally cylindrical rear electrode 7 and same axis as the body 2 extends inside the case 6. It has a rear end 7a which is flush with the level of a rear face 1a of the torch. Its end before 7b is pointed so as to get a field effect and thus allow the attachment of the foot of the electric arc which will generate the plasma.
  • a front electrode 8 is applied against the case 6 by the cover 3. It has a peripheral shoulder 8a which is tightly fitted with the body 2. It presents also a central pin 8b sharp favorable to the hanging of the bow and which extends inside the case 6.
  • the rear electrode 7 also has a shoulder 7c which acts as a positioning stop for the electrode back 7 relative to the body 2.
  • the shoulder 7c is in bearing against a counterbore 9a of a support 9 made in one insulating material with high mechanical strength, for example a phenoplast or polyoxymethylene.
  • the support 9 has a rear part 9b flared which is attached to the body 2 by a Thread 10.
  • the support 9 has a tubular front portion 9c which is fitted into the bore 5 of the body 2. This part front has separate annular sealing lips 30 by annular grooves 31.
  • the lips 30 ensure by their radial deformation, during the operation of the torch, the gas tightness produced by the torch 1.
  • the throats 31 form relaxation rooms also improving sealing.
  • a tube 11 is arranged in the internal volume delimited by the insulating case 6.
  • This tube caps the cylindrical ends 7b and 8b of electrodes 7 and 8.
  • the tube 11 is pinched between the outer cylindrical surface of the electrode 7 and a thinned end 12 of the insulating case 6, itself in contact with the front portion 9c of the support 9.
  • the tube 11 constitutes a fuse for priming the torch 1.
  • the tube 11 comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least one material energy or likely to react with the material driver.
  • Energy material is a material likely to provide chemical energy in the form a flame when it is initiated by the Joule effect generated by the passage of the current in the material driver with which he is intimately associated.
  • Reactive or reactive material with the conductive material a material, inert in isolation, but likely to react chemically with the material driver during the warm-up of this one by effect Joule. Chemical energy is then provided by this reaction in the form of a flame.
  • the conductive material may consist of carbon or a metal such as copper, aluminum, money or magnesium.
  • the energetic materials are the compositions: Magnesium / polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Boron / Nitrate potassium; film or film of plasticized nitrocellulose; polyvinyl nitrate.
  • Reactive materials with a conductive material are: Copper oxide; polytetrafluoroethylene; copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene; polytetrafluoroethylene / copolymer chlorofluoroethylene; polyoxymethylene; Polychloride trifluoroethylene; Polyvinyl chloride; polysulfone; Polyvinylidene fluoride
  • the fuse tube is formed by a homogeneous mixture combining 6 to 20% by mass of powder or particles of conductive material and 80 to 94% by weight of a material energetic or likely to react with the material driver.
  • the composition Bore potassium nitrate will associate 80% in bulk of Boron for 20% by mass of potassium nitrate.
  • the tube is made first of all by the mixture of different granular materials then isostatic compression in a suitable mold.
  • Patent FR 2776656 for example describes a method of realization that can be implemented to achieve such tube.
  • the thickness of the tube 11 is of the order of 0.5 mm, its resistance is of the order of a few hundred milliohms.
  • the body 2 radially presents conical vents 13 which are flared out of the body 2 to favor the evacuation of gases.
  • vents are regularly distributed angularly and longitudinally (here only eight vents are represented on a total of sixteen).
  • vents 13 are arranged opposite radial holes cylindrical 14 made on the insulating case 6.
  • Events 13 and 14 holes are intended to allow the radial diffusion of the plasma generated by the torch 1, by example to ensure the ignition of a propellant charge of ammunition (not shown).
  • the diameter of the holes 14 is smaller than the smallest diameter of the vents 13 this in order to favor the removal of the capillary case 6.
  • the conductive tubular body 2 will be covered on substantially all its external and internal surfaces by an insulator (no represented), for example by a vacuum deposit of 30 to 80 micrometers of a plastic material such as di-para-zylylene.
  • an insulator no represented
  • a vacuum deposit of 30 to 80 micrometers of a plastic material such as di-para-zylylene.
  • this torch is simply done by stacking the different elements inside the body 2. For example, we can start by fixing the support rear 9 carrying the back electrode 7 on the body 2. On then slides through the front of the body 2 the case 6 inside of which is disposed the fuse tube 11. The depression of the case 6 in the body makes it possible to pinch the tube 11 around the back electrode 7, and therefore make good electrical contact at this level.
  • the case will be oriented angularly in an appropriate manner to ensure the positioning of the holes 14 opposite 13. Such indexing may be facilitated by providing on the case 6 a localized peripheral indentation in the vicinity of the front electrode 8 and cooperating with a notch arranged in the body (details not shown).
  • a torch 1 according to the invention is for example fixed at a base 15 a munition 16 (shown partially).
  • the ammunition 16 conventionally comprises a propellant charge of powder 17 disposed in a combustible case 18.
  • a projectile (not shown) is attached to fuel case 18 at of a front part of the latter.
  • the ammunition 16 is disposed in the chamber of a weapon (not shown)
  • the weapon has an electric generator 19 which is connected by electrical connections 24 and 25 to the torch 1.
  • a first connection 24 is in electrical contact by a suitable means (for example a non-spring-loaded shown) with the back electrode 7.
  • a second connection 25 is in electrical contact with the metallic body of the torch, for example by a spring pad resting on the back part 2b of this one or on the metal base 15 himself.
  • the body 2 is in electrical contact with the electrode before 8 thanks to the tight fit of the shoulder 8a of the electrode in the bore 5 of the body 2.
  • the fuse tube 11 is in electrical contact with both electrodes 7 and 8 thanks to a tight fit by pinching the tube 11 between the case 6 and the parts cylindrical 7b and 8b electrodes (see Figure 1).
  • the generator 19 is designed to be able to deliver a energy from 10 kJ to 1 mega-joule in the form of pulses of voltage from 1000 volts to 20 kilo volts.
  • a generator is and includes, for example, capabilities, inductance, thyristors and a stabilized power supply.
  • a small fraction of the energy provided by the generator is used to initiate the fuse tube 11 by Joule effect.
  • the energetic material is then initiated or the reaction between the conductive material and the material reagent is initiated.
  • a combustion flame is established on substantially the entire length of the tube 11, releasing the holes 14 and vents 13.
  • This flame is naturally formed of atoms and ionized molecules. It ensures electrical conduction of reduced resistance between the electrodes 7 and 8 which allows the maintaining the arc between the electrodes 7 and 8.
  • Plasma provides initiation of propellant charge 17 ammunition by providing the benefits usually associated with electric plasma ignition: pressure level and temperature higher than that of a pyrotechnic ignition due to the supply of electrical energy by the generator. This results in a higher speed for the projectile.
  • the energy fuse proposed by the present invention also for the benefit of providing energy too ignition (in chemical form). It allows to use a generator delivering a lower voltage than generators used in conventional plasma torches. Practically, a voltage of 1000 Volts is enough against 10 to 35 kilovolts for known plasma torches. We improve thus the performance of the torch and it facilitates its integration into a weapon system.
  • Figure 3 shows a preferred embodiment for the fuse tube 11 which can be set up in a torch such as that shown in Figure 1.
  • This tube 11 differs from the previous one in that the material conductor is not homogeneously mixed with the material energetic or likely to react with him.
  • the conductive material here forms a deposited layer 26 on at least a part of the energetic material or likely to react with the conductive material.
  • the layer conductor 26 is cylindrical and deposited within a tube 27 of energy material or capable of reacting with the conductive material. Such an arrangement allows to ensure the electrical contact between the electrodes 7 and 8 and the conductive layer 26.
  • the metal deposit will be obtained for example by vapo vacuum deposition of a metal on the energy or reactive material. He will be able to also be obtained by projection on a metal sheet a mixture of glue and energetic material or react with the conductive material.
  • the tube 11 may also comprise two layers conductors separated by the energy layer. Such a provision will favor the generation of discharge arcs between the two conductive layers.
  • a fuse tube having at least one layer of aluminum or magnesium deposited on a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene or polyvinyl chloride.
  • the thickness of the metal layer (s) will be the order of 100 micrometers. That of the energetic material will be of the order of 150 micrometers.
  • the thicknesses and lengths of the different leaves will be determined by relative proportions desired for the reactants between them (aluminum and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer).
  • a layer of conductive material 26 eg aluminum
  • a layer of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer e.g aluminum
  • a layer 30 of a flame enhancer material which can be polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.
  • the dimensions and masses of the different layers will preferably respect the previous stoichiometry of 90 parts by mass of aluminum for 10 parts by weight of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer.
  • the mass of polyoxymethylene added will represent between 15 and 25 parts in bulk added to other fuse materials. She will preferably 20 parts by weight.
  • This last variant makes it possible to obtain a temperature from 17000 K to 20000 K which is much higher (at electrical energy equal) to the temperature obtained with the torches using polyethylene (of the order of 6000 K).
  • Figure 7 shows in cross section a variant of making a fuse in the form of a tube 11 of a material as described above with reference to FIG. 6. Again this fuse combines a layer 26 of material conductor (eg aluminum) at one or two layers (27a, 27b) of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer and at a layer 30 of a flame enhancer material which can be polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.
  • material conductor eg aluminum
  • layers (27a, 27b) of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer eg aluminum
  • a flame enhancer material which can be polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.
  • This variant differs from the previous one in that after winding the fuse before it is placed in the body tubular 2 (Figure 1), the fuse does not cover an arc of 360 °. There remains a slot 31 representing an arc that will be less than 180 °.
  • This variant makes it possible to reduce the mass of the fuse while preserving the relative proportions conductive and energetic components. This decrease mass reduces the duration of the heating phase by Joule effect of the fuse. This decreases the energy consumed without reducing the temperature of the plasma got.
  • the skilled person will adjust the width of the slot which it is necessary according to the characteristics desired for the weapon system it defines.
  • the functioning of the various embodiments of the Figures 3, 5, 6 and 7 are similar to the previously described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.
  • Figure 4 shows a torch following a third mode embodiment of the invention.
  • This mode differs from that in FIG. 1 in that the body 2 is devoid of radial vents and the insulating case 6 is devoid of radial holes.
  • the front electrode 8 is here fixed by threading on the body 2. It has an axial hole 28 which passes through it and which is intended to let the plasma pass axially generated by the torch.
  • the fuse tube 11 is as in the previous mode arranged around the electrodes 7 and 8 and surrounded by the ablatable case 6.
  • the hole 28 will advantageously be closed by a disk or closure paillet 29 made of metal or material plastic and stuck on the electrode 8. This disc is intended for ensure a storage seal. It is broken dice ignition of the torch.
  • This embodiment makes it possible to obtain a torch compact plasma (length L less than or equal to 40mm) and having an axial direction of action.
  • a torch can be used for reduced caliber ammunition (lower at 50mm) or for civil applications (cutting of materials, safety openings, deposits of materials low thickness, powder metal fabrication nanometer).

Abstract

The invention relates to a plasma torch (1) comprising at least two electrodes (7, 8) separated by a cylindrical insulating case (6) delimiting an internal volume, said electrodes connected by a conductive ignition fuse (11) placed in the internal volume. This torch is characterized in that the fuse (11) comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least one energetic material or one able to react with the conductive material.Application to the ignition of the propellant charge of a munition.

Description

Le domaine tecnnique de l'invention est celui des torches à plasma et plus particulièrement des torches utilisées pour assurer l'allumage d'un chargement propulsif d'une munition.The technical field of the invention is that of torches plasma and more particularly torches used for ensure the ignition of a propellant charge of a munition.

Une torche à plasma est un système qui permet d'engendrer des gaz à haute pression (de l'ordre de 500 MPa) et à haute température (supérieure à 10000 K) à partir d'une décharge électrique de haute tension (de l'ordre de 20 kV) provoquée entre deux électrodes.A plasma torch is a system that can generate high pressure gases (of the order of 500 MPa) and at high temperature (above 10000 K) from a discharge electrical high voltage (of the order of 20 kV) caused between two electrodes.

Les torches à plasma sont utilisées dans l'industrie pour réaliser par exemple la découpe de matériaux conducteurs, ou encore pour détruire certains produits ou matériels, ou pour effectuer des dépôts métalliques. Elles sont également utilisées dans le domaine de l'armement pour engendrer une pression permettant le tir d'un projectile.Plasma torches are used in the industry for for example, cutting conductive materials, or still to destroy certain products or materials, or to make metal deposits. They are also used in the field of armament to generate a pressure allowing the firing of a projectile.

Les torches à plasma connues comprennent une anode et une cathode séparées par un tube capillaire réalisé en un matériau qui est à la fois isolant électrique et susceptible de se décomposer pour engendrer un plasma (par exemple une matière plastique). La décharge électrique entre anode et cathode est amorcée au moyen d'un fusible en cuivre ou autre matériau conducteur. L'arc électrique ainsi créé provoque un plasma qui réalise l'ablation de la paroi du tube capillaire, ce qui entraíne la génération de gaz légers à haute pression et haute température.The known plasma torches comprise an anode and a cathode separated by a capillary tube made in one material that is both electrical insulator and susceptible to decompose to generate a plasma (for example a plastic material). The electric discharge between anode and cathode is primed by means of a copper or other fuse conductive material. The electric arc thus created causes a plasma which carries out the ablation of the wall of the capillary tube, which leads to the generation of light gases at high pressure and high temperature.

Ces gaz sont utilisés, soit pour accélérer directement un projectile, soit pour vaporiser un fluide de travail (par exemple de l'eau) qui permet d'accroítre le volume de gaz.These gases are used to either directly accelerate a projectile, either to vaporize a working fluid (for example of water) which increases the volume of gas.

On pourra par exemple considérer les brevets FR2754969 et FR2768810 qui décrivent des torches à plasma utilisées pour initier un chargement propulsif de munition, suivant le préambule de la revendication 1.For example, patents FR2754969 and FR2768810 which describe plasma torches used for initiate a propellant loading of ammunition, according to the preamble of claim 1.

Un inconvénient des torches à plasma connues est la fragilité du fil fusible permettant d'amorcer le plasma. Un tel fil fusible a un diamètre de 0,1 à 0,5mm. Il est susceptible de se rompre comme suite aux contraintes thermiques et mécaniques (vibration, chocs) qui se produisent lors des phases de stockage ou de mise en oeuvre des éléments de munition.A disadvantage of known plasma torches is the fragility of the fuse wire for priming the plasma. A such fuse wire has a diameter of 0.1 to 0.5mm. It is likely to break as a result of the constraints thermal and mechanical (vibration, shock) that occur during the phases of storage or implementation of the elements of ammunition.

De plus la fabrication des torches connues est rendue délicate et coûteuse par l'opération de montage d'un tel fil fusible.In addition the manufacture of known torches is made delicate and expensive by the operation of mounting such a wire fuse.

On connaít par le brevet EP 949 224 un procédé de fabrication d'un objet à partir d'un matériau granulaire et notamment un tube allumeur pour munition d'artillerie ou bien une charge propulsive réalisée à partir de ce procédé. Le tube allumeur comprend ainsi un matériau énergétique (poudre noire, explosif ou composition pyrotechnique oxydoréductrice) qui est enrobé d'un liant. Un tel tube n'est en aucun cas susceptible d'être utilisé en tant que torche à plasma du fait qu'il est dépourvu d'électrodes et prévoit l'initiation au moyen d'un fil comportant un mélange pyrotechnique.Patent EP 949 224 discloses a method of making an object from a granular material and including an igniter tube for artillery ammunition or a propellant charge made from this process. The igniter tube thus comprises an energetic material (powder black, explosive or redox pyrotechnic composition) which is coated with a binder. Such a tube is in no way likely to be used as a plasma torch does not have electrodes and provides for initiation by means of a wire having a pyrotechnic mixture.

On connaít également par le brevet US5503081 une torche à plasma comportant un fusible réalisé sous la forme d'un tube d'aluminium poreux. Il peut éventuellement renfermer un fluide énergétique qui se trouve alors dispersé avec le plasma au travers du chargement propulsif.Also known from US5503081 a torch to plasma comprising a fuse made in the form of a tube of porous aluminum. It can possibly contain a energy fluid which is then dispersed with the plasma through the propulsive charge.

Ce fusible occupe un volume important et nécessite un certain niveau d'énergie pour se vaporiser et amorcer un arc de plasma. Il en résulte des difficultés pour intégrer une telle torche dans un véhicule de combat où les ressources en énergie électrique sont forcément réduites. C'est le but de l'invention de pallier de tels inconvénients.This fuse occupies a large volume and requires a certain level of energy to vaporize and start an arc of plasma. This results in difficulties in integrating a such torch in a combat vehicle where resources in electrical energy are necessarily reduced. This is the purpose of the invention to overcome such disadvantages.

Ainsi la torche selon l'invention a une résistance aux contraintes mécaniques améliorée ce qui augmente sa fiabilité. De plus elle est de structure simple et peut être fabriquée à moindre coûts.Thus, the torch according to the invention has a resistance to mechanical stresses improved which increases its reliability. In addition it is simple in structure and can be manufactured cheaply.

Par ailleurs la torche selon l'invention incorpore un fusible de masse réduite et nécessitant un niveau d'énergie réduit pour être vaporisé. Selon l'invention ce fusible associe au moins un matériau conducteur et au moins un matériau énergétique ou réactif c'est à dire susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.Moreover, the torch according to the invention incorporates a fuse with reduced mass and requiring a level of energy reduced to be vaporized. According to the invention this fuse associates at least one conductive material and at least one energy or reactive material that is to say susceptible react with the conductive material.

Ces matériaux sont associés :

  • soit sous la forme d'un mélange homogène des matériaux pulvérulents, agglomérés avec éventuellement un liant,
  • soit sous la forme du contact intime d'au moins une couche d'un matériau conducteur avec au moins une couche d'un matériau énergétique ou réactif.
These materials are associated:
  • either in the form of a homogeneous mixture of powdery materials, agglomerated with a binder,
  • either in the form of the intimate contact of at least one layer of a conductive material with at least one layer of an energetic or reactive material.

Ces deux modes de réalisation de l'invention ont pour caractéristique commune d'associer intimement une masse relativement réduite de matériau conducteur qui se vaporise dès l'application de la tension d'alimentation et provoque alors, soit l'initiation d'un matériau énergétique, soit la réaction chimique d'un matériau réactif avec le matériau conducteur.These two embodiments of the invention have the following common feature of intimately associating a mass relatively small amount of conductive material that vaporizes upon application of the supply voltage and causes then, either the initiation of an energetic material, or the chemical reaction of a reactive material with the material driver.

Dans tous les cas l'énergie chimique qui se trouve libérée par la réaction ainsi déclenchée se manifeste sous la forme d'une flamme de combustion qui va servir de milieu conducteur assurant le passage de l'arc électrique du plasma.In all cases the chemical energy that is found released by the reaction thus triggered manifests itself under the form of a combustion flame that will serve as a medium conductor ensuring the passage of the electric arc of the plasma.

Dans la torche connue par US5503081 un fusible métallique poreux se vaporise tout d'abord pour assurer l'amorçage de l'arc électrique puis libère un matériau combustible ou énergétique qui va être répandu par le plasma. La vaporisation de ce fusible métallique poreux ainsi que la dispersion du matériau qu'il renferme va consommer de l'énergie et diminuer la température du plasma engendré, donc l'efficacité de l'allumage.In the torch known by US5503081 a metal fuse porous vaporizes first to ensure the priming of the electric arc and then releases a combustible material or energy that will be spread by the plasma. The vaporization of this porous metal fuse as well as the dispersion of the material it contains will consume energy and decrease the temperature of the generated plasma, so the efficiency of the ignition.

Au contraire dans la torche selon l'invention la masse totale du fusible mis en oeuvre est très réduite (de l'ordre de quelques centaines de milligrammes). Elle consomme donc peu d'énergie mais suffit à initier le matériau énergétique ou à amorcer la réaction d'un matériau réactif approprié avec le matériau conducteur.On the contrary, in the torch according to the invention the mass total fuse used is very small (of the order a few hundred milligrams). It consumes so little energy but enough to initiate the energetic material or to initiate the reaction of a suitable reactive material with the conductive material.

La flamme ainsi produite est un milieu conducteur qui permet le maintien de l'arc entre les électrodes de la torche avec une tension d'alimentation minimale (de l'ordre de 1000 volts pour 10 cm d'entrefer, alors que les torches connues fonctionnent entre 10 KV et 30 KV pour 10 cm d'entrefer).The flame thus produced is a conductive medium that allows the maintenance of the arc between the electrodes of the torch with a minimum supply voltage (of the order of 1000 volts for 10 cm of air gap, while known torches operate between 10 KV and 30 KV for 10 cm of air gap).

On notera que la structure du fusible poreux décrit par US5503081 ne permet pas d'obtenir un tel fonctionnement. En effet, la porosité du tube est difficile à maítriser. Il en découle que les proportions relatives entre matériau conducteur et matériau réactif sont figées par la porosité et ne peuvent donc être ajustées de façon à assurer une réaction chimique entre ces deux matériaux. Par ailleurs un tube métallique poreux tel que décrit par US5503081 ne peut recevoir dans ses pores un matériau réactif ou énergétique solide tel qu'une composition pyrotechnique.It will be noted that the structure of the porous fuse described by US5503081 does not provide such operation. In Indeed, the porosity of the tube is difficult to control. It it follows that the relative proportions between material conductor and reactive material are frozen by porosity and therefore can not be adjusted to ensure a reaction between these two materials. Moreover a tube porous metal as described by US5503081 can not receive in its pores a reactive or energetic material solid such as a pyrotechnic composition.

La torche selon l'invention peut être réalisée sans difficulté avec des longueurs très différentes. The torch according to the invention can be produced without difficulty with very different lengths.

La torche selon l'invention peut être réalisée sans difficulté avec des longueurs très différentes.The torch according to the invention can be produced without difficulty with very different lengths.

L'invention a également pour objet un tube allumeur pour munition incorporant une telle torche à plasma.The subject of the invention is also an igniter tube for ammunition incorporating such a plasma torch.

Ainsi l'invention a pour objet une torche à plasma comprenant au moins deux électrodes séparées par un étui cylindrique isolant délimitant un volume interne, électrodes reliées par un fusible d'amorçage conducteur disposé dans le volume interne, torche caractérisée en ce que le fusible comprend au moins un matériau conducteur associé à au moins un matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur, le matériau conducteur se trouvant sous la forme de poudre ou de particules soit mélangées au matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur, soit sous la forme d'une couche déposée sur au moins une partie du matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.Thus the invention relates to a plasma torch comprising at least two electrodes separated by a case cylindrical insulator delimiting an internal volume, electrodes connected by a conductive ignition fuse arranged in the internal volume, torch characterized in that the fuse comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least an energetic material or capable of reacting with the conductive material, the conductive material under the powder or particle form is mixed with energy material or capable of reacting with the conductive material, either in the form of a deposited layer on at least a part of the energetic material or likely to react with the conductive material.

Le matériau conducteur sera constitué par du carbone ou bien un métal.The conductive material will consist of carbon or good a metal.

Le matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur pourra être choisi parmi les composés ou compositions suivantes :

  • Oxyde de cuivre; polytétrafluororéthylène; copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; polytétrafluoroéthylène/copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; Magnésium / polytétrafluoroéthylène / copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; Bore/Nitrate de potassium; pellicule ou film de nitrocellulose plastifiée; nitrate de polyvinyle; Polyoxyméthylène; Polychlorure de trifluoroéthylène; polychlorure de vinyle; polysulfone; polyfluorure de vinylidène.
    • The energetic material or capable of reacting with the conductive material may be chosen from the following compounds or compositions:
  • Copper oxide; polytétrafluororéthylène; chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Magnesium / polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Boron / potassium nitrate; film or film of plasticized nitrocellulose; polyvinyl nitrate; polyoxymethylene; Trifluoroethylene chloride; polyvinyl chloride; polysulfone; polyvinylidene fluoride.

    • Le fusible pourra ainsi être réalisé en un mélange homogène associant 6 à 40% en masse de poudre de matériau conducteur et 60 à 94% en masse d'un matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.The fuse can thus be made of a mixture homogenous combining 6 to 40% by mass of powder of material 60 to 94% by weight of an energetic material or very likely to react with the conductive material.

    Le fusible pourra ainsi être réalisé en un mélange homogène associant 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre de cuivre et de préférence 20%, 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Magnésium, polytétrafluoréthylène et copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène, et de préférence 80%. The fuse can thus be made of a mixture homogeneous mixture of 10 to 40% by weight of copper powder and preferably 20%, 60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining magnesium, polytetrafluoroethylene and copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene, and preferably 80%.

    Le fusible pourra également être réalisé en un mélange homogène associant :

    • 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre d'argent et de préférence 10%,
    • 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Magnésium, polytétrafluoréthylène et copolymère de chlorofluoro-éthylène, et de préférence 80%.
    The fuse can also be made of a homogeneous mixture combining:
    • 10 to 40% by weight of silver powder and preferably 10%,
    • 60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining magnesium, polytetrafluoroethylene and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, and preferably 80%.

    Le fusible pourra être réalisé en un mélange homogène associant :

    • 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre d'argent et de préférence 20%,
    • 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Bore et nitrate de potassium, et de préférence 80%.
    The fuse can be made of a homogeneous mixture associating:
    • 10 to 40% by weight of silver powder and preferably 20%,
    • 60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining boron and potassium nitrate, and preferably 80%.

    Suivant un deuxième mode de réalisation, le matériau conducteur pourra former au moins une couche déposée sur au moins une partie du matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.According to a second embodiment, the material conductor may form at least one deposited layer on least part of the energy material or susceptible to react with the conductive material.

    Le fusible pourra ainsi comprendre au moins une couche conductrice d'aluminium ou de magnésium déposée sur une couche réactive de polytétrafluoréthylène, ou de nitrocellulose ou de nitrate de polyvinyle, ou d'oxyde de cuivre ou de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène, ou de polyoxyméthylène, ou de Polychlorure de trifluoroéthylène, ou de polysulfone, ou de polyfluorure de vinylidène.The fuse can thus comprise at least one layer conductor of aluminum or magnesium deposited on a reactive layer of polytetrafluoroethylene, or nitrocellulose or polyvinyl nitrate, or oxide of copper or chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, or polyoxymethylene, or trifluoroethylene polychloride, or polysulfone, or polyvinylidene fluoride.

    Les dimensions des différentes couches seront choisies telles qu'on associe de 85 à 95 parties en masse du matériau de la couche conductrice à 5 à 15 parties en masse du ou des matériaux de la ou des couches réactives.The dimensions of the different layers will be chosen as we associate 85 to 95 parts by mass of the material of the conductive layer at 5 to 15 parts by weight of the materials of the reactive layer or layers.

    Le fusible pourra comprendre au moins une couche d'aluminium et au moins une couche de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène.The fuse may include at least one layer of aluminum and at least one layer of copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene.

    Avantageusement le fusible pourra comprendre également au moins une couche d'un matériau renforçateur de flamme.Advantageously, the fuse may also include least one layer of a flame enhancer material.

    Le matériau renforçateur de flamme pourra être le polyoxyméthylène ou la nitrocellulose.The flame enhancer material may be the polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.

    La masse du matériau renforçateur de flamme pourra représenter entre 15 et 25 parties en masse ajoutées aux autres matériaux du fusible. The mass of the flame reinforcing material can represent between 15 and 25 parts by mass added to other fuse materials.

    Le fusible pourra être avantageusement sous la forme d'un tube disposé dans le volume interne.The fuse may advantageously be in the form of a tube disposed in the internal volume.

    Le tube pourra présenter au moins une fente longitudinale.The tube may have at least one slot longitudinal.

    L'étui cylindrique isolant pourra être disposé dans un corps tubulaire conducteur relié électriquement à une électrode, le corps tubulaire conducteur étant recouvert sur au moins une partie de sa surface externe par un isolant.The cylindrical insulating case can be arranged in a conductive tubular body electrically connected to a electrode, the conductive tubular body being covered on at least a portion of its outer surface by an insulator.

    Suivant une variante de réalisation, le corps tubulaire pourra être percé d'au moins deux évents radiaux disposés en regard de trous radiaux réalisés sur l'étui isolant, évents et trous étant obturés par le fusible tubulaire.According to an alternative embodiment, the tubular body may be pierced by at least two radial vents arranged in radial holes made on the insulating case, vents and holes being closed by the tubular fuse.

    Suivant une autre variante de réalisation, l'électrode avant pourra être percée d'un trou axial.According to another variant embodiment, the electrode before can be pierced with an axial hole.

    L'invention a également pour objet un tube allumeur pour munition comprenant au moins une telle torche à plasma.The subject of the invention is also an igniter tube for ammunition comprising at least one such plasma torch.

    D'autres caractéristiques, détails et avantages de l'invention apparaítront plus clairement à la lecture du complément de description qui va suivre de différents modes de réalisation, description faite en référence aux dessins annexés et dans lesquels :

    • la figure 1 représente en coupe longitudinale un premier mode de réalisation d'une torche selon l'invention,
    • la figure 2 montre l'adaptation à une munition de la torche selon l'invention,
    • la figure 3 représente en coupe longitudinale un fusible mise en oeuvre dans un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
    • la figure 4 représente une torche suivant un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
    • la figure 5 représente partiellement en coupe une variante de réalisation d'un fusible selon l'invention,
    • la figure 6 représente partiellement en coupe une autre variante de réalisation d'un fusible selon l'invention,
    • la figure 7 montre en coupe transversale une autre variante de réalisation d'un fusible selon l'invention.
    Other features, details and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the additional description which follows of various embodiments, description made with reference to the accompanying drawings and in which:
    • FIG. 1 represents in longitudinal section a first embodiment of a torch according to the invention,
    • FIG. 2 shows the adaptation to a munition of the torch according to the invention,
    • FIG. 3 represents in longitudinal section a fuse implemented in a second embodiment of the invention,
    • FIG. 4 represents a torch according to a third embodiment of the invention,
    • FIG. 5 partially shows in section a variant embodiment of a fuse according to the invention,
    • FIG. 6 partially shows in section another variant embodiment of a fuse according to the invention,
    • Figure 7 shows in cross section another alternative embodiment of a fuse according to the invention.

    En se reportant à la figure 1, une torche à plasma 1 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention comprend un corps tubulaire métallique 2, obturé au niveau d'une partie avant 2a par un opercule 3 réalisé en matière plastique. L'opercule 3 est fixé au corps 2 par exemple par filetage.Referring to FIG. 1, a plasma torch 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises a metal tubular body 2, closed at a level front part 2a by a cover 3 made of material plastic. The lid 3 is fixed to the body 2 for example by thread.

    La partie arrière 2b du corps 2 présente un diamètre élargi de façon à constituer une collerette butée facilitant la fixation de la torche dans un alésage d'un support (non représenté) par exemple d'un culot de munition. Pour permettre également cette fixation de la torche 1, le corps 2 porte un filetage 4.The rear portion 2b of the body 2 has a diameter widened to form a stop collar facilitating fixing the torch in a bore of a support (no shown) for example an ammunition base. For also allow this fixation of the torch 1, the body 2 carries a thread 4.

    Le corps 2 présente un alésage axial 5 à l'intérieur duquel est disposé un étui cylindrique isolant 6 réalisé en une matière plastique susceptible de s'ablater, c'est à dire d'engendrer des gaz légers par l'action d'un plasma. On pourra par exemple réaliser l'étui 6 en polyéthylène, en polyoxyméthylène ou en polytétrafluoréthylène. On pourrait également réaliser l'étui 6 en un matériau énergétique par exemple en nitrocellulose.The body 2 has an axial bore 5 on the inside which is disposed a cylindrical insulating case 6 made of a plastic material likely to settle, that is to say to generate light gases by the action of a plasma. We can for example make the case 6 polyethylene, in polyoxymethylene or polytetrafluoroethylene. We could also realize the case 6 in an energetic material by example in nitrocellulose.

    Un tel étui est généralement appelé capillaire dans les torches à plasma connues.Such a case is usually called capillary in the known plasma torches.

    Deux électrodes métalliques 7 et 8 sont séparées par l'étui isolant 6. Les électrodes sont réalisées par exemple en un alliage cuivreux.Two metal electrodes 7 and 8 are separated by the insulating case 6. The electrodes are made for example in a cuprous alloy.

    Une électrode arrière 7 globalement cylindrique et de même axe que le corps 2 s'étend à l'intérieur de l'étui 6. Elle présente une extrémité arrière 7a qui est affleurante au niveau d'une face arrière 1a de la torche. Son extrémité avant 7b est pointue de façon à obtenir un effet de champ et permettre ainsi l'accrochage du pied de l'arc électrique qui engendrera le plasma.A globally cylindrical rear electrode 7 and same axis as the body 2 extends inside the case 6. It has a rear end 7a which is flush with the level of a rear face 1a of the torch. Its end before 7b is pointed so as to get a field effect and thus allow the attachment of the foot of the electric arc which will generate the plasma.

    Une électrode avant 8 se trouve appliquée contre l'étui 6 par l'opercule 3. Elle présente un épaulement périphérique 8a qui est ajusté de façon serrée avec le corps 2. Elle présente également un téton central 8b pointu favorable à l'accrochage de l'arc et qui s'étend à l'intérieur de l'étui 6.A front electrode 8 is applied against the case 6 by the cover 3. It has a peripheral shoulder 8a which is tightly fitted with the body 2. It presents also a central pin 8b sharp favorable to the hanging of the bow and which extends inside the case 6.

    L'électrode arrière 7 présente également un épaulement 7c qui joue le rôle de butée de positionnement de l'électrode arrière 7 par rapport au corps 2. L'épaulement 7c est en appui contre un lamage 9a d'un support 9 réalisé en un matériau isolant à haute tenue mécanique, par exemple un phénoplaste ou du polyoxyméthylène. Le support 9 comporte une partie arrière 9b évasée qui est fixée au corps 2 par un filetage 10. Le support 9 comporte une partie avant tubulaire 9c qui est ajustée dans l'alésage 5 du corps 2. Cette partie avant comporte des lèvres d'étanchéité annulaires 30 séparées par des gorges annulaires 31. Les lèvres 30 assurent par leur déformation radiale, lors du fonctionnement de la torche, l'étanchéité aux gaz produits par la torche 1. Les gorges 31 forment des chambres de détente améliorant également l'étanchéité.The rear electrode 7 also has a shoulder 7c which acts as a positioning stop for the electrode back 7 relative to the body 2. The shoulder 7c is in bearing against a counterbore 9a of a support 9 made in one insulating material with high mechanical strength, for example a phenoplast or polyoxymethylene. The support 9 has a rear part 9b flared which is attached to the body 2 by a Thread 10. The support 9 has a tubular front portion 9c which is fitted into the bore 5 of the body 2. This part front has separate annular sealing lips 30 by annular grooves 31. The lips 30 ensure by their radial deformation, during the operation of the torch, the gas tightness produced by the torch 1. The throats 31 form relaxation rooms also improving sealing.

    Conformément à l'invention, un tube 11 est disposé dans le volume interne délimité par l'étui isolant 6.According to the invention, a tube 11 is arranged in the internal volume delimited by the insulating case 6.

    Ce tube coiffe les extrémités cylindriques 7b et 8b des électrodes 7 et 8. Au niveau de l'électrode arrière 7, le tube 11 est pincé entre la surface cylindrique externe de l'électrode 7 et une extrémité amincie 12 de l'étui isolant 6, elle même en contact avec la partie avant 9c du support 9.This tube caps the cylindrical ends 7b and 8b of electrodes 7 and 8. At the rear electrode 7, the tube 11 is pinched between the outer cylindrical surface of the electrode 7 and a thinned end 12 of the insulating case 6, itself in contact with the front portion 9c of the support 9.

    Le tube 11 constitue un fusible d'amorçage pour la torche à plasma 1. A cet effet, le tube 11 comprend au moins un matériau conducteur associé à au moins un matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.The tube 11 constitutes a fuse for priming the torch 1. For this purpose, the tube 11 comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least one material energy or likely to react with the material driver.

    On entend par matériau énergétique un matériau susceptible de fournir de l'énergie chimique sous la forme d'une flamme lorsqu'il se trouve initié par l'effet Joule engendré par la passage du courant dans le matériau conducteur auquel il est intimement associé.Energy material is a material likely to provide chemical energy in the form a flame when it is initiated by the Joule effect generated by the passage of the current in the material driver with which he is intimately associated.

    On entend par matériau réactif ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur un matériau, inerte isolément, mais susceptible de réagir chimiquement avec le matériau conducteur lors de l'échauffement de celui ci par effet Joule. De l'énergie chimique se trouve alors fournie par cette réaction sous la forme d'une flamme.Reactive or reactive material with the conductive material a material, inert in isolation, but likely to react chemically with the material driver during the warm-up of this one by effect Joule. Chemical energy is then provided by this reaction in the form of a flame.

    Le matériau conducteur pourra être constitué par du carbone ou bien par un métal tel du cuivre, de l'aluminium, de l'argent ou du magnésium. The conductive material may consist of carbon or a metal such as copper, aluminum, money or magnesium.

    Le matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur pourra être choisi parmi les composés ou compositions suivantes :

  • Oxyde de cuivre; polytétrafluoréthylène; copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; polytétrafluoréthyléne/copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; Magnésium / polytétrafluoréthylène / copolymère de chlorofluoro-éthylène; Bore/Nitrate de potassium; pellicule ou film de nitrocellulose plastifiée; nitrate de polyvinyle; polyoxyméthylène; Polychlorure de trifluoroéthylène; polychlorure de vinyle; polysulfone; polyfluorure de vinylidène.
    • The energetic material or capable of reacting with the conductive material may be chosen from the following compounds or compositions:
  • Copper oxide; polytetrafluoroethylene; chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Magnesium / polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Boron / potassium nitrate; film or film of plasticized nitrocellulose; polyvinyl nitrate; polyoxymethylene; Trifluoroethylene chloride; polyvinyl chloride; polysulfone; polyvinylidene fluoride.

    • Dans cette liste les matériaux énergétiques sont les compositions : Magnésium / polytétrafluoréthylène / copolymère de chlorofluoro-éthylène; Bore/Nitrate de potassium; pellicule ou film de nitrocellulose plastifiée; nitrate de polyvinyle.In this list the energetic materials are the compositions: Magnesium / polytetrafluoroethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Boron / Nitrate potassium; film or film of plasticized nitrocellulose; polyvinyl nitrate.

    Les matériaux réactifs avec un matériau conducteur sont : Oxyde de cuivre; polytétrafluoréthylène; copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; polytétrafluoréthylène/copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène; Polyoxyméthylène; Polychlorure de trifluoroéthylène; Polychlorure de vinyle; Polysulfone; Polyfluorure de vinylidène.Reactive materials with a conductive material are: Copper oxide; polytetrafluoroethylene; copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene; polytetrafluoroethylene / copolymer chlorofluoroethylene; polyoxymethylene; Polychloride trifluoroethylene; Polyvinyl chloride; polysulfone; Polyvinylidene fluoride

    Suivant le mode particulier de réalisation de la figure 1, le tube fusible est formé par un mélange homogène associant 6 à 20 % en masse de poudre ou de particules de matériau conducteur et 80 à 94% en masse d'un matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.According to the particular embodiment of the figure 1, the fuse tube is formed by a homogeneous mixture combining 6 to 20% by mass of powder or particles of conductive material and 80 to 94% by weight of a material energetic or likely to react with the material driver.

    On pourra par exemple réaliser un tube fusible avec les compositions suivantes :For example, it will be possible to make a fuse tube with the following compositions:

    Exemple 1Example 1

  • 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre de cuivre et de préférence 20%,10 to 40% by weight of copper powder and preferably 20%
  • 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Magnésium, polytétrafluoréthylène et copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène, et de préférence 80%.60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining magnesium, polytetrafluoroethylene and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, and preferably 80%.

    • Exemple 2Example 2

  • 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre d'argent et de préférence 20%,10 to 40% by weight of silver powder and preferably 20%
  • 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Magnésium, polytétrafluoréthylène et copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène, et de préférence 80%.60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining magnesium, polytetrafluoroethylene and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, and preferably 80%.

    • Exemple 3Example 3

    • 10 à 40 % en masse de poudre d'argent et de préférence 20%,10 to 40% by weight of silver powder and preferably 20%
    • 60 à 90% en masse d'une composition associant Bore et nitrate de potassium, et de préférence 80%.60 to 90% by weight of a composition combining boron and potassium nitrate, and preferably 80%.

    La composition Bore nitrate de potassium associera 80 % en masse de Bore pour 20 % en masse de nitrate de potassium.The composition Bore potassium nitrate will associate 80% in bulk of Boron for 20% by mass of potassium nitrate.

    Le tube est réalisé tout d'abord par le mélange des différents matériaux en grains puis compression isostatique dans un moule approprié. On pourra prévoir un liant nitrocellulosique assurant la tenue mécanique du tube.The tube is made first of all by the mixture of different granular materials then isostatic compression in a suitable mold. We can provide a binder nitrocellulosic ensuring the mechanical strength of the tube.

    Le brevet FR2776656 décrit par exemple un procédé de réalisation pouvant être mis en oeuvre pour réaliser un tel tube.Patent FR 2776656 for example describes a method of realization that can be implemented to achieve such tube.

    L'épaisseur du tube 11 est de l'ordre de 0,5 mm, sa résistance est de l'ordre de quelques centaines de milliohms.The thickness of the tube 11 is of the order of 0.5 mm, its resistance is of the order of a few hundred milliohms.

    Suivant le mode de réalisation de la figure 1, le corps métallique 2 présente radialement des évents coniques 13 qui sont évasés vers l'extérieur du corps 2 pour favoriser l'évacuation des gaz.According to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the body 2 radially presents conical vents 13 which are flared out of the body 2 to favor the evacuation of gases.

    Ces évents sont régulièrement répartis angulairement et longitudinalement (ici seuls huit évents sont représentés sur un total de seize).These vents are regularly distributed angularly and longitudinally (here only eight vents are represented on a total of sixteen).

    Les évents 13 sont disposés en regard de trous radiaux cylindriques 14 réalisés sur l'étui isolant 6.The vents 13 are arranged opposite radial holes cylindrical 14 made on the insulating case 6.

    Events 13 et trous 14 sont destinés à permettre la diffusion radiale du plasma engendré par la torche 1, par exemple pour assurer l'allumage d'un chargement propulsif de munition (non représenté).Events 13 and 14 holes are intended to allow the radial diffusion of the plasma generated by the torch 1, by example to ensure the ignition of a propellant charge of ammunition (not shown).

    Le diamètre des trous 14 est inférieur au plus petit diamètre des évents 13 cela dans le but de favoriser l'ablation de l'étui capillaire 6. The diameter of the holes 14 is smaller than the smallest diameter of the vents 13 this in order to favor the removal of the capillary case 6.

    Les trous 14 et les évents 13 sont obturés par le fusible tubulaire 11.The holes 14 and the vents 13 are closed by the fuse tubular 11.

    Pour améliorer l'isolation électrique de la torche, le corps tubulaire conducteur 2 sera recouvert sur sensiblement toute ses surfaces externes et internes par un isolant (non représenté), par exemple par un dépôt sous vide de 30 à 80 micromètres d'une matière plastique telle que du di-para-zylylène. On évitera le dépôt de matière plastique uniquement au niveau de la portée cylindrique assurant le passage du courant du tube 2 à l'électrode 8 et au niveau de la zone de retour de courant vers le générateur 19 (par exemple au niveau de la face arrière 2b).To improve the electrical insulation of the torch, the conductive tubular body 2 will be covered on substantially all its external and internal surfaces by an insulator (no represented), for example by a vacuum deposit of 30 to 80 micrometers of a plastic material such as di-para-zylylene. We will avoid the deposit of plastic only at the level of the cylindrical scope ensuring the passage of the current from tube 2 to electrode 8 and to the zone of return of current to the generator 19 (for example at level of the back side 2b).

    Le montage de cette torche est réalisé tout simplement par empilement des différents éléments à l'intérieur du corps 2. On pourra par exemple commencer par fixer le support arrière 9 portant l'électrode arrière 7 sur le corps 2. On glisse ensuite par l'avant du corps 2 l'étui 6 à l'intérieur duquel est disposé le tube fusible 11. L'enfoncement de l'étui 6 dans le corps permet d'assurer le pincement du tube 11 autour de l'électrode arrière 7, et par conséquent de réaliser un bon contact électrique à ce niveau.The mounting of this torch is simply done by stacking the different elements inside the body 2. For example, we can start by fixing the support rear 9 carrying the back electrode 7 on the body 2. On then slides through the front of the body 2 the case 6 inside of which is disposed the fuse tube 11. The depression of the case 6 in the body makes it possible to pinch the tube 11 around the back electrode 7, and therefore make good electrical contact at this level.

    On orientera l'étui angulairement d'une façon appropriée pour assurer le positionnement des trous 14 en regard des évents 13. Une telle indexation pourra être facilitée en prévoyant sur l'étui 6 une indentation périphérique localisée au voisinage de l'électrode avant 8 et coopérant avec une encoche aménagée dans le corps (détails non représentés).The case will be oriented angularly in an appropriate manner to ensure the positioning of the holes 14 opposite 13. Such indexing may be facilitated by providing on the case 6 a localized peripheral indentation in the vicinity of the front electrode 8 and cooperating with a notch arranged in the body (details not shown).

    On enfonce ensuite l'électrode avant 8 qui est ajustée serrée à la fois dans le tube 11 et dans le corps 2 pour la qualité des contacts électriques, puis on ferme la torche par le vissage de l'opercule 3.Then press the front electrode 8 which is adjusted tightened both in the tube 11 and in the body 2 for the quality of the electrical contacts, then we close the torch by screwing the lid 3.

    On voit qu'un tel montage est extrêmement aisé. Le tube fusible 11 se met en place facilement. Aucune soudure n'est nécessaire, aucune rupture d'un fil fusible n'est à craindre. Les résistances de contact entre les électrodes 7,8 et le tube fusible sont réduites du fait des surfaces de contact importantes. L'ensemble réalisé est robuste. L'étui assure le soutien du tube fusible sur sensiblement toute sa surface cylindrique.We see that such a montage is extremely easy. The tube fuse 11 is set up easily. No welding is necessary, no breakage of a fuse wire is to be feared. The contact resistances between the electrodes 7,8 and the fuse tube are reduced because of the contact surfaces important. The set made is robust. The case ensures support of the fuse tube on substantially all of its surface cylindrical.

    Conformément à la figure 2, une torche 1 selon l'invention est par exemple fixée au niveau d'un culot 15 d'une munition 16 (représentée partiellement). La munition 16 comporte d'une façon classique un chargement propulsif de poudre 17 disposé dans un étui combustible 18. Un projectile (non représenté) est fixé à l'étui combustible 18 au niveau d'une partie avant de ce dernier.According to Figure 2, a torch 1 according to the invention is for example fixed at a base 15 a munition 16 (shown partially). The ammunition 16 conventionally comprises a propellant charge of powder 17 disposed in a combustible case 18. A projectile (not shown) is attached to fuel case 18 at of a front part of the latter.

    La munition 16 est disposée dans la chambre d'une arme (non représentée). L'arme comporte un générateur électrique 19 qui est relié par des connexions électriques 24 et 25 à la torche 1. Une première connexion 24 est en contact électrique par un moyen approprié (par exemple un toucheau à ressort non représenté) avec l'électrode arrière 7. Une seconde connexion 25 est en contact électrique avec le corps 2 métallique de la torche, par exemple par un toucheau à ressort en appui sur la partie arrière 2b de celui ci ou bien sur le culot métallique 15 lui même.The ammunition 16 is disposed in the chamber of a weapon (not shown) The weapon has an electric generator 19 which is connected by electrical connections 24 and 25 to the torch 1. A first connection 24 is in electrical contact by a suitable means (for example a non-spring-loaded shown) with the back electrode 7. A second connection 25 is in electrical contact with the metallic body of the torch, for example by a spring pad resting on the back part 2b of this one or on the metal base 15 himself.

    Le corps 2 est en contact électrique avec l'électrode avant 8 grâce à l'ajustement serré de l'épaulement 8a de l'électrode dans l'alésage 5 du corps 2.The body 2 is in electrical contact with the electrode before 8 thanks to the tight fit of the shoulder 8a of the electrode in the bore 5 of the body 2.

    Par ailleurs le tube fusible 11 est en contact électrique avec les deux électrodes 7 et 8 grâce à un ajustement serré par pincement du tube 11 entre l'étui 6 et les parties cylindriques 7b et 8b des électrodes (voir figure 1).Moreover, the fuse tube 11 is in electrical contact with both electrodes 7 and 8 thanks to a tight fit by pinching the tube 11 between the case 6 and the parts cylindrical 7b and 8b electrodes (see Figure 1).

    Le fonctionnement de cette torche est le suivant.The operation of this torch is as follows.

    Le générateur 19 est conçu pour pouvoir délivrer une énergie de 10 kJ à 1 mégaJoule sous forme d'impulsions de tension de 1000 volts à 20 kilo Volts. Un tel générateur est classique et comprend par exemple des capacités, une inductance, des thyristors et une alimentation stabilisée.The generator 19 is designed to be able to deliver a energy from 10 kJ to 1 mega-joule in the form of pulses of voltage from 1000 volts to 20 kilo volts. Such a generator is and includes, for example, capabilities, inductance, thyristors and a stabilized power supply.

    Une faible fraction de l'énergie fournie par le générateur est utilisée pour initier le tube fusible 11 par effet joule. Le matériau énergétique est alors initié ou bien la réaction entre le matériau conducteur et le matériau réactif est initiée. Une flamme de combustion s'établit sur sensiblement toute la longueur du tube 11, dégageant les trous 14 et les évents 13.A small fraction of the energy provided by the generator is used to initiate the fuse tube 11 by Joule effect. The energetic material is then initiated or the reaction between the conductive material and the material reagent is initiated. A combustion flame is established on substantially the entire length of the tube 11, releasing the holes 14 and vents 13.

    Cette flamme est formée naturellement d'atomes et molécules ionisés. Elle assure une conduction électrique de résistance réduite entre les électrodes 7 et 8 qui permet le maintien de l'arc entre les électrodes 7 et 8.This flame is naturally formed of atoms and ionized molecules. It ensures electrical conduction of reduced resistance between the electrodes 7 and 8 which allows the maintaining the arc between the electrodes 7 and 8.

    D'une façon classique, le confinement de l'arc électrique dans l'étui 6 à base de matériau ablatable permet la génération d'un plasma qui s'écoule hors du corps au travers des évents 13.In a classical way, the confinement of the electric arc in the case 6 based on ablatable material allows the generating a plasma that flows out of the body through vents 13.

    Le plasma assure l'initiation du chargement propulsif 17 de la munition en procurant les avantages habituellement liés à l'allumage par plasma électrique : niveau de pression et température supérieur à celui d'un allumage pyrotechnique classique dû à l'apport d'énergie électrique par le générateur. Il en résulte une vitesse supérieure pour le projectile.Plasma provides initiation of propellant charge 17 ammunition by providing the benefits usually associated with electric plasma ignition: pressure level and temperature higher than that of a pyrotechnic ignition due to the supply of electrical energy by the generator. This results in a higher speed for the projectile.

    Le fusible énergétique proposé par l'invention présente également pour avantage de fournir lui aussi de l'énergie d'allumage (sous forme chimique). Il permet ainsi d'utiliser un générateur délivrant une tension plus faible que celle des générateurs utilisés dans les torches à plasma classiques. Pratiquement, une tension de 1000 Volts suffit contre 10 à 35 kilovolts pour les torches à plasma connues. On améliore ainsi le rendement de la torche et on facilite son intégration dans un système d'arme.The energy fuse proposed by the present invention also for the benefit of providing energy too ignition (in chemical form). It allows to use a generator delivering a lower voltage than generators used in conventional plasma torches. Practically, a voltage of 1000 Volts is enough against 10 to 35 kilovolts for known plasma torches. We improve thus the performance of the torch and it facilitates its integration into a weapon system.

    On notera que, même si une fissure localisée apparaissait sur le tube fusible 11, une telle fissure ne pourrait pas empêcher l'allumage du tube fusible. Les arcs électriques se produiront entre les particules conductrices et suffiront à initier la réaction qui progressera dans tous le tube. Le niveau de fiabilité d'une telle torche est donc bien supérieur à celui de la torche à fil fusible dont le fonctionnement est impossible en cas de rupture du fil.Note that even if a localized crack appeared on the fuse tube 11, such a crack could not prevent ignition of the fuse tube. Arcs are will produce between the conductive particles and will suffice to initiate the reaction that will progress in all the tube. The reliability level of such a torch is so good greater than that of the fusible-wire torch whose operation is impossible in case of wire breakage.

    La figure 3 représente un mode de réalisation préféré pour le tube fusible 11 qui peut être mis en place dans une torche telle que celle représentée à la figure 1. Figure 3 shows a preferred embodiment for the fuse tube 11 which can be set up in a torch such as that shown in Figure 1.

    Ce tube 11 diffère du précédent en ce que le matériau conducteur n'est pas mélangé de façon homogène au matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec lui.This tube 11 differs from the previous one in that the material conductor is not homogeneously mixed with the material energetic or likely to react with him.

    Le matériau conducteur forme ici une couche 26 déposée sur au moins une partie du matériau énergétique ou bien susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur.The conductive material here forms a deposited layer 26 on at least a part of the energetic material or likely to react with the conductive material.

    Dans ce mode particulier de réalisation la couche conductrice 26 est cylindrique et déposée à l'intérieur d'un tube 27 de matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir avec le matériau conducteur. Une telle disposition permet d'assurer le contact électrique entre les électrodes 7 et 8 et la couche conductrice 26. Le dépôt métallique sera obtenu par exemple par vapo déposition sous vide d'un métal sur le matériau énergétique ou susceptible de réagir. Il pourra aussi être obtenu par projection sur une feuille métallique d'un mélange de colle et du matériau énergétique ou pouvant réagir avec le matériau conducteur.In this particular embodiment, the layer conductor 26 is cylindrical and deposited within a tube 27 of energy material or capable of reacting with the conductive material. Such an arrangement allows to ensure the electrical contact between the electrodes 7 and 8 and the conductive layer 26. The metal deposit will be obtained for example by vapo vacuum deposition of a metal on the energy or reactive material. He will be able to also be obtained by projection on a metal sheet a mixture of glue and energetic material or react with the conductive material.

    On pourra avantageusement découper une feuille formée des deux couches et l'enrouler de façon à former le tube fusible 11.It will be possible advantageously to cut a sheet formed of two layers and wrap it to form the fuse tube 11.

    Le tube 11 pourra également comporter deux couches conductrices séparées par la couche énergétique. Une telle disposition favorisera la génération d'arcs de décharge entre les deux couches conductrices.The tube 11 may also comprise two layers conductors separated by the energy layer. Such a provision will favor the generation of discharge arcs between the two conductive layers.

    Concrètement on pourra réaliser un tube fusible comportant au moins une couche d'aluminium ou de magnésium déposée sur une couche de polytétrafluoréthylène ou de chlorure de polyvinyle.Concretely we can realize a fuse tube having at least one layer of aluminum or magnesium deposited on a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene or polyvinyl chloride.

    L'épaisseur de la (ou des) couches métalliques sera de l'ordre de 100 micromètres. Celle du matériau énergétique sera de l'ordre de 150 micromètres.The thickness of the metal layer (s) will be the order of 100 micrometers. That of the energetic material will be of the order of 150 micrometers.

    On pourra également associer au moins une couche d'aluminium ou de magnésium avec une couche de nitrocellulose ou de nitrate de polyvinyle.We can also associate at least one layer aluminum or magnesium with a layer of nitrocellulose or polyvinyl nitrate.

    On pourra réaliser un dépôt d'oxyde de cuivre ou de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène sur une feuille d'aluminium ou de magnésium. It will be possible to produce a deposit of copper oxide or chlorofluoroethylene copolymer on a sheet aluminum or magnesium.

    On pourra également réaliser un dépôt d'aluminium sur une couche de polyoxyméthylène.We can also make a deposit of aluminum on a polyoxymethylene layer.

    Suivant un mode de réalisation préféré (qui peut se décrire lui aussi en référence à la figure 3) on déposera au moins une couche de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène (connu sous la marque déposée Viton) sur une couche d'aluminium.According to a preferred embodiment (which can be also describe with reference to Figure 3). minus one layer of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer (known under the trademark Viton) on an aluminum layer.

    On pourra éventuellement déposer le copolymère de chlorofluoro-éthylène sur les deux côtés d'une couche conductrice 26 d'aluminium (cette dernière variante est schématisée à la figure 5). Les repères 27a et 27b désignent les deux couches de copolymère de chlorofluoro-éthylène déposées de part et d'autre de la couche d'aluminium 26.The copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene on both sides of a layer conductor 26 of aluminum (this last variant is schematically in Figure 5). Benchmarks 27a and 27b designate the two layers of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer deposited on both sides of the aluminum layer 26.

    Les épaisseurs et longueurs des différentes feuilles seront déterminées en fonctions des proportions relatives souhaitées pour les composants réagissants entre eux (aluminium et copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène).The thicknesses and lengths of the different leaves will be determined by relative proportions desired for the reactants between them (aluminum and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer).

    On associera de 85 à 95 parties en masse du matériau de la couche conductrice à 5 à 15 parties en masse du ou des matériaux de la ou des couches réactives. On associera de préférence les proportions stoechiométriques de 90 parties en masse d'aluminium pour 10 parties en masse de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène.We will associate from 85 to 95 parts in mass of the material of the conductive layer with 5 to 15 parts by weight of the materials of the reactive layer or layers. We will associate preferably the stoichiometric proportions of 90 parts in aluminum mass per 10 parts by weight of copolymer of chlorofluoroethylene.

    Suivant une variante schématisée à la figure 6, on pourra associer en un même fusible une couche de matériau conducteur 26 (par exemple de l'aluminium) à une ou deux couches (27a,27b) de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène et à une couche 30 d'un matériau renforçateur de flamme qui pourra être le polyoxyméthylène ou bien la nitrocellulose.According to a variant shown schematically in FIG. combine in the same fuse a layer of conductive material 26 (eg aluminum) one or two layers (27a, 27b) of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer and at a layer 30 of a flame enhancer material which can be polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.

    Les dimensions et masses des différentes couches respecteront de préférence la stoechiométrie précédente de 90 parties en masse d'aluminium pour 10 parties en masse de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène. La masse de polyoxyméthylène ajoutée représentera entre 15 et 25 parties en masse ajoutées aux autres matériaux du fusible. Elle sera de préférence de 20 parties en masse.The dimensions and masses of the different layers will preferably respect the previous stoichiometry of 90 parts by mass of aluminum for 10 parts by weight of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer. The mass of polyoxymethylene added will represent between 15 and 25 parts in bulk added to other fuse materials. She will preferably 20 parts by weight.

    Cette dernière variante permet d'obtenir une température de plasma de 17000 K à 20000 K ce qui est bien supérieur (à énergie électrique égale) à la température obtenue avec les torches mettant en oeuvre le polyéthylène (de l'ordre de 6000 K).This last variant makes it possible to obtain a temperature from 17000 K to 20000 K which is much higher (at electrical energy equal) to the temperature obtained with the torches using polyethylene (of the order of 6000 K).

    La figure 7 montre en coupe transversale une variante de réalisation d'un fusible sous la forme d'un tube 11 d'un matériau tel que décrit précédemment en référence à la figure 6. Là encore ce fusible associe une couche 26 de matériau conducteur (par exemple de l'aluminium) à une cu deux couches (27a,27b) de copolymère de chlorofluoroéthylène et à une couche 30 d'un matériau renforçateur de flamme qui pourra être le polyoxyméthylène ou bien la nitrocellulose.Figure 7 shows in cross section a variant of making a fuse in the form of a tube 11 of a material as described above with reference to FIG. 6. Again this fuse combines a layer 26 of material conductor (eg aluminum) at one or two layers (27a, 27b) of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer and at a layer 30 of a flame enhancer material which can be polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.

    Cette variante diffère de la précédente en ce qu'après enroulement du fusible avant sa mise en place dans le corps tubulaire 2 (figure 1), le fusible ne couvre pas un arc de 360°. Il subsiste une fente 31 représentant un arc qui sera inférieur à 180°. Cette variante permet de réduire encore la masse du fusible tout en préservant les proportions relatives des composants conducteurs et énergétiques. Cette diminution de masse permet de réduire la durée de la phase de chauffage par effet Joule du fusible. On diminue ainsi l'énergie consommée sans pour autant diminuer la température du plasma obtenu. L'Homme du Métier ajustera la largeur de la fente qui lui est nécessaire en fonction des caractéristiques souhaitées pour le système d'arme qu'il définit. Le fonctionnement des différents modes de réalisation des figures 3, 5, 6 et 7 est analogue à celui du mode précédemment décrit en référence aux figures 1 et 2.This variant differs from the previous one in that after winding the fuse before it is placed in the body tubular 2 (Figure 1), the fuse does not cover an arc of 360 °. There remains a slot 31 representing an arc that will be less than 180 °. This variant makes it possible to reduce the mass of the fuse while preserving the relative proportions conductive and energetic components. This decrease mass reduces the duration of the heating phase by Joule effect of the fuse. This decreases the energy consumed without reducing the temperature of the plasma got. The skilled person will adjust the width of the slot which it is necessary according to the characteristics desired for the weapon system it defines. The functioning of the various embodiments of the Figures 3, 5, 6 and 7 are similar to the previously described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

    L'avantage de ces modes de réalisation associant au moins deux couches (un matériau conducteur et un matériau réactif) est qu'ils sont de fabrication simple.The advantage of these embodiments associating at least two layers (a conductive material and a reactive material) is that they are of simple manufacture.

    La figure 4 montre une torche suivant un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figure 4 shows a torch following a third mode embodiment of the invention.

    Ce mode diffère de celui selon la figure 1 en ce que le corps 2 est dépourvu d'évents radiaux et l'étui isolant 6 est dépourvu de trous radiaux.This mode differs from that in FIG. 1 in that the body 2 is devoid of radial vents and the insulating case 6 is devoid of radial holes.

    L'électrode avant 8 est ici fixée par filetage sur le corps 2. Elle comporte un trou axial 28 qui la traverse et qui est destiné à laisser passer axialement le plasma engendré par la torche. Le tube fusible 11 est comme dans le mode précédent disposé autour des électrodes 7 et 8 et entouré par l'étui ablatable 6.The front electrode 8 is here fixed by threading on the body 2. It has an axial hole 28 which passes through it and which is intended to let the plasma pass axially generated by the torch. The fuse tube 11 is as in the previous mode arranged around the electrodes 7 and 8 and surrounded by the ablatable case 6.

    Le trou 28 sera avantageusement obturé par un disque ou paillet de fermeture 29 réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique et collé sur l'électrode 8. Ce disque est destiné à assurer une étanchéité de stockage. Il est rompu dés l'allumage de la torche.The hole 28 will advantageously be closed by a disk or closure paillet 29 made of metal or material plastic and stuck on the electrode 8. This disc is intended for ensure a storage seal. It is broken dice ignition of the torch.

    Ce mode de réalisation permet d'obtenir une torche à plasma compacte (longueur L inférieure ou égale à 40mm) et ayant une direction d'action axiale. Une telle torche pourra être utilisée pour les munitions de calibre réduit (inférieur à 50mm) ou bien pour les applications civiles (découpe de matériaux, ouvertures de sécurité, dépôts de matériaux sous faible épaisseur, fabrication de métaux en poudre nanométrique).This embodiment makes it possible to obtain a torch compact plasma (length L less than or equal to 40mm) and having an axial direction of action. Such a torch can be used for reduced caliber ammunition (lower at 50mm) or for civil applications (cutting of materials, safety openings, deposits of materials low thickness, powder metal fabrication nanometer).

    Il est bien entendu possible d'etiliser pour cette torche un tube fusible 11 en matériau homogène comme celui décrit en référence à la figure 1 ou bien un tube fusible multicouche comme celui décrit en référence aux figures 3, 5, 6 et 7.It is of course possible to use for this torch a fuse tube 11 of homogeneous material such as that described in reference to Figure 1 or a multilayer fuse tube as that described with reference to Figures 3, 5, 6 and 7.

    Claims (19)

    1. A plasma torch (1) comprising at least two electrodes (7, 8) separated by a cylindrical insulating case (6) delimiting an internal volume, said electrodes connected by a conductive ignition fuse (11) placed in the internal volume, characterised in that the fuse (11) comprises at least one conductive material associated with at least one energetic material or one able to react with the conductive material, the conductive material being in the form of a powder or of particles mixed with the energetic material or with the material able to react with the conductive material, or in the form of a layer (26) deposited over at least part (27) of the energetic material or material able to react with the conductive material.
    2. A plasma torch according to Claim 1, wherein the conductive material is constituted by carbon or else a metal.
    3. A plasma torch according to one of Claims 1 or 2, wherein the energetic material or material able to react with the conductive material is selected from among the following compounds or compositions:
      Copper oxide; polytetrafluorethylene; chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; polytetrafluorethylene/ chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Magnesium / polytetrafluorethylene / chlorofluoroethylene copolymer; Boron / potassium Nitrate; plasticised nitrocellulose coating or film; polyvinyl nitrate; Polyoxymethylene; polychlorotrifluoroethylene; polyvinyl chloride; polysulfone; polyvinylidene fluoride.
    4. A plasma torch according to one the Claims 1 to 3, wherein the fuse (11) is made of a homogeneous mixture associating 6 to 40% in mass of conductive material powder and 60 to 94% in mass of an energetic material or one able to react with the conductive material.
    5. A plasma torch according to Claim 4, wherein the fuse (11) is made of a homogeneous mixture associating:
      10 to 40% in mass of copper powder, and preferably 20%,
      60 to 90% in mass of a composition associating Magnesium, polytetrafluorethylene and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, and preferably 80%.
    6. A plasma torch according to Claim 4, wherein the fuse (11) is made of a homogeneous mixture associating:
      10 to 40% in mass of silver powder, and preferably 20%,
      60 to 90% in mass of a composition associating Magnesium, polytetrafluorethylene and chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, and preferably 80%.
    7. A plasma torch according to Claim 5, wherein the fuse (11) is made of a homogeneous mixture associating:
      10 to 40% in mass of silver powder, and preferably 20%,
      60 to 90% in mass of a composition associating Boron and potassium nitrate, and preferably 80%.
    8. A plasma torch according to one of the Claims 1 to 3, wherein the fuse comprises at least one conductive layer (26) of aluminium or magnesium deposited on a reactive layer (27) of polytetrafluorethylene, or nitrocellulose or polyvinyl nitrate, or copper oxide or chlorofluoroethylene copolymer, or polyoxymethylene, or polychlorotrifluoroethylene, or polysulfone, or polyfluoride of vinylidene.
    9. A plasma torch according to Claim 8, wherein the dimensions of the different layers will be selected such that 85 to 95 parts in mass of the conductive layer material are associated with 5 to 15 parts in mass of the material or materials of the reactive layer or layers.
    10. A plasma torch according to Claim 9, wherein the fuse comprises at least one layer of aluminium and at least one layer of chlorofluoroethylene copolymer.
    11. A plasma torch according to one of Claims 9 or 10, wherein the fuse also comprises at least one layer of flame intensifying material.
    12. A plasma torch according to Claim 11, wherein the flame intensifying material is polyoxymethylene or nitrocellulose.
    13. A plasma torch according to Claim 12, wherein the flame intensifying material represents between 15 and 25 parts in mass added to the other materials of the fuse.
    14. A plasma torch according to one of Claims 1 to 13, wherein the fuse (11) is in the shape of a tube placed in the internal volume.
    15. A plasma torch according to Claim 16, wherein the tube has at least one longitudinal slit.
    16. A plasma torch according to one of Claims 1 to 15, wherein the cylindrical insulating case (6) is placed in a tubular conductive body (2) electrically connected to an electrode, the tubular conductive body being coated on at least part of its surface by an insulating material.
    17. A plasma torch according to Claim 16 and one of Claims 14 or 15, wherein the tubular body (2) is perforated by at least two radial vents (13) placed opposite radial holes made in the insulating case (6), vents and holes being obturated by the tubular fuse (11).
    18. A plasma torch according to Claim 16 and one of Claims 14 or 15, wherein the front electrode (8) is perforated by an axial hole (28).
    19. An igniter squib tube for an ammunition, wherein it comprises at least one plasma torch according to one of Claims 1 to 18.
    EP01919602A 2000-04-11 2001-03-30 Plasma torch incorporating a reactive priming fuse and igniter tube integrating such a torch Expired - Lifetime EP1185833B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    FR0004734 2000-04-11
    FR0004734A FR2807610B1 (en) 2000-04-11 2000-04-11 PLASMA TORCH INCORPORATING A REACTIVE PRIMING FUSE AND IGNITION TUBE INCLUDING SUCH A TORCH
    PCT/FR2001/000961 WO2001077604A1 (en) 2000-04-11 2001-03-30 Plasma torch incorporating a reactive priming fuse and igniter tube integrating such a torch

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1185833A1 EP1185833A1 (en) 2002-03-13
    EP1185833B1 true EP1185833B1 (en) 2005-07-20

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    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP01919602A Expired - Lifetime EP1185833B1 (en) 2000-04-11 2001-03-30 Plasma torch incorporating a reactive priming fuse and igniter tube integrating such a torch

    Country Status (8)

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    US (1) US6703580B2 (en)
    EP (1) EP1185833B1 (en)
    AT (1) ATE300031T1 (en)
    DE (1) DE60112012T2 (en)
    FR (1) FR2807610B1 (en)
    IL (1) IL145774A (en)
    WO (1) WO2001077604A1 (en)
    ZA (1) ZA200110054B (en)

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    IL145774A (en) 2006-06-11
    ATE300031T1 (en) 2005-08-15
    FR2807610A1 (en) 2001-10-12
    IL145774A0 (en) 2002-07-25
    US20020157559A1 (en) 2002-10-31
    EP1185833A1 (en) 2002-03-13
    ZA200110054B (en) 2002-07-22
    DE60112012T2 (en) 2006-04-20
    DE60112012D1 (en) 2005-08-25
    US6703580B2 (en) 2004-03-09
    WO2001077604A1 (en) 2001-10-18
    FR2807610B1 (en) 2002-10-11

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