EP2997310B1 - Cartridge with a neckless case - Google Patents

Cartridge with a neckless case Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2997310B1
EP2997310B1 EP14742259.6A EP14742259A EP2997310B1 EP 2997310 B1 EP2997310 B1 EP 2997310B1 EP 14742259 A EP14742259 A EP 14742259A EP 2997310 B1 EP2997310 B1 EP 2997310B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
projectile
case
head
cartridge according
cartridge
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EP14742259.6A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2997310A1 (en
Inventor
Emeric Daniau
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ETAT FRANCAIS REPRESENTE PAR LE DELEGUE GENERAL
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Direction General pour lArmement DGA
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    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42BEXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B5/00Cartridge ammunition, e.g. separately-loaded propellant charges
    • F42B5/02Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile
    • F42B5/025Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile characterised by the dimension of the case or the missile
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42BEXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B5/00Cartridge ammunition, e.g. separately-loaded propellant charges
    • F42B5/02Cartridges, i.e. cases with charge and missile
    • F42B5/067Mounting or locking missiles in cartridge cases
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42BEXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B5/00Cartridge ammunition, e.g. separately-loaded propellant charges
    • F42B5/26Cartridge cases
    • F42B5/30Cartridge cases of plastics, i.e. the cartridge-case tube is of plastics

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of cartridge ammunition and, more particularly, to the mounting or blocking of projectiles in cartridge cases.
  • Bottle-shaped and center-fire metal cartridge is universally used for all light armament. It has basically remained unchanged since its invention in the late nineteenth century.
  • a tubular case 1 made of brass, or even steel containing a charge of propellant powder 2 and receiving, at a first longitudinal end 3, a base 4 with a primer 5, and having, at its other longitudinal end 6, a reduction of diameter forming an outer shoulder 7 then a collar 8 and a projectile 9, with a nose 9 1 of ogival shape and a base 9 2 having a first portion of constant diameter, followed by a second portion whose diameter decreases to its base 9 3 , the projectile being pressed by force, or crimped into the collar 8 at the first part of the base.
  • the shoulder is intended to cooperate with a part of the complementary shaped weapon for a reproducible longitudinal positioning of the cartridge.
  • a second solution was the replacement of the case made of brass or steel with a case made of light alloy or composite material, to reduce by 2/3 the mass of the case, an overall weight gain of the cartridge about 33%.
  • such a projectile has a combustion chamber of the same diameter as that of the projectile which considerably limits the scope of the projectile and does not allow, for example, to replace the metal cartridges "bottleneck” type or “bottle” to metal case of 5,56 or 7,62 caliber as shown for example on the figure 1 , by this type of cartridge, but only to use them for exercises on targets at short distance.
  • the object of the invention is to solve the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a cartridge of low weight and reliable when used so compatible with use in the military field and, preferably, substitutable for metal cartridges "bottleneck” type or “bottle” With a metal case of 5.56 or 7.62 gauge.
  • Such a cartridge is intended in particular to be substituted for traditional "bottleneck” or “bottle” munitions with a metal case, the outer shape of the case being, except for the collar, then the same as that of a metal case, and the frustoconical outer shape of the part enclosing a portion of the projectile serving as a shoulder on the weapon.
  • the reduction of the diameter of the combustion chamber to that of the base of the projectile corresponds to a progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the holster over all or part of its perimeter, thus forming a convergent which makes it possible to increase the velocity of the combustion gases and thus increase the exit velocity of the projectile.
  • the cartridge comprises a tubular case of polymer while the base of the cartridge, associated with the primer, is for example made of aluminum thus forming a composite case.
  • a cartridge according to the invention using a jacketed projectile with a lead nucleus of the same mass as the M80 projectile but of greater elongation, makes it possible to increase the effective range of about 200m.
  • the nose of ogival shape may for example be of the tangent type, secant or hybrid, that is to say combining these two profiles or minimal drag such as L-D type or L-V Haack.
  • the ratio between the length of the nose of the projectile and its maximum diameter is between 2.9 and 4.1 and, preferably, about 3.5.
  • the reduction of the diameter of the combustion chamber to that of the base of the projectile corresponds to a progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the case, the latter having, at this level, a frustoconical shape of half-angle ⁇ between 20 and 40 degrees.
  • the projectile has a mainly cylindrical base and the case has, at its second longitudinal end and in the base-projectile direction, a first part comprising a progressive reduction of its internal diameter on all or part of its perimeter, for example by forming ribs, a second portion of constant thickness whose inner face is, at least partially, and preferably completely in contact with the projectile and an end portion constituted by the outer shoulder whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.
  • the first part comprises a progressive reduction of its internal diameter to the base of the projectile and having a frustoconical shape and the length of the second part is at least equal to one third of that of the end portion.
  • the projectile has a base having, at least in part, a progressive decrease in its diameter to its base and, preferably, the case comprises, at its second longitudinal end and in the base-projectile direction, a first part comprising a progressive reduction of its internal diameter to the base of the projectile on all or part of its perimeter, a second part of external diameter equal to that of the first part and increasing internal diameter by marrying a portion of the base of the projectile and an end portion constituted by the shoulder whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.
  • the length of the second part is at least equal to one third of that of the third part
  • a cartridge according to the invention has a caliber of 5.56 mm, or 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm and, preferably, its maximum length is 57.4 mm (2.26 in ), 71.9 mm (2.83 in), 140.8 mm (5.545 in).
  • the figure 3a shows a diagram of a longitudinal section of a cartridge according to a first embodiment of the invention with regard to a cartridge according to the figure 1 .
  • the inner face 35 of the shoulder 27 is in contact with the projectile 29 and constitutes the end portion of the holster 21 on the projectile side 29.
  • the case is made of polymer and the fixing of the projectile to the case is obtained by overmolding.
  • the base 24 is made of light metal material, in this case aluminum. It is attached to the back of the case by gluing or threading / tapping.
  • the ratio between the length of the nose of the projectile and its maximum diameter is equal to 3.5.
  • the ratio of the length of the second portion to the length of the third portion is about 0.6.
  • the body of the case is characterized by an absence of collar, made unnecessary by the overmolding process.
  • the connection between the case and the projectile is now at said second and third parts 31 and 27, which ensures excellent mechanical strength of the assembly, to ensure the concentricity, and to use space released by the removal of the collar to lengthen the nose of the projectile and thus reduce its drag.
  • This reduction of the drag is essential because it allows, while ensuring the necessary alignment of trajectory with the existing loadings, either to use a lighter projectile fired at identical initial speed, or a projectile of identical mass fired with a reduced initial velocity . In both cases, this allows a reduction of the initial kinetic energy that is consistent with the necessary reduction of the propellant charge caused by the use of composite cases and this, without reducing terminal performance at medium or long distance.
  • Such a composite ammunition with a light alloy base with the outside profile of the 7.62 x 51 mm, having a case with a capacity of 2.85 cm 3 , against 3.5 cm 3 for the 7.62 x 51 mm brass case, and equipped with a "lead-free" projectile a mass of 8.4 grams with reduced drag, propelled at an initial speed of 830 m / s in a 61 cm long tube, delivers substantially the same performance at 600 m as the ordinary ball M80 loading, but with a reduced retreat of about 20%, related to the decrease of the propulsive charge and the mass of the projectile, and a mass of the blow reduced by almost 40% thanks to the gains on the holster, on the projectile and on the powder mass.
  • the use of a projectile both longer than the original one and realized in a material less dense than the lead causes a strong constraint on its gyroscopic stability.
  • the projectile has a recessed base, such as can be found on the balls called “Minie” or the projectiles type "Very High Speed” marketed by the company SFM early of the 80s.
  • This recess remains of a small diameter to avoid any risk of expansion or fragmentation of this hollow base, even after tilting 180 ° on its axis, which can occur in the case of an impact in a semi- fluid.
  • the figure 4 shows a cartridge 40 according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • This cartridge 40 comprises on the one hand a projectile 49 with a nose 40 of ogival shape and a base 51 having a progressive decrease in its diameter to its base 52 and, on the other hand, a tubular case 41 made of polymer and a bottle shape containing a charge of propellant powder 42, and receiving at a first longitudinal end 43 a pellet 44 with a primer 45, and having, at its second longitudinal end 46, and in the direction of pellet 44-projectile 49, a first part 53 with a constant outer diameter D1 and a gradual reduction in its internal diameter, a second portion 54 of outer diameter D1 and increasing inner diameter by marrying a corresponding portion of the projectile base, then an end portion constituted by a progressive reduction of its outer diameter forming an outer shoulder 47 whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.
  • the progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the case is such that it has, at this level, a frustoconical internal shape and, preferably, I,
  • the inner face 55 of the shoulder 47 is in contact with the projectile 49 and constitutes the end portion of the case 41 projectile side 49.
  • the case is made of polymer and the fixing of the projectile to the case is obtained by overmolding.
  • the base 44 is made of light metal material, in this case aluminum. It is attached to the back of the case according to the embodiment shown in the patent US2862446 .
  • the ratio between the projectile nose length and its maximum diameter is equal to 3.
  • This type of narrow-base projectile profile allows a significant reduction of the drag, mainly in the subsonic domain, so in the long run. distances, with a slight decrease in performance at short and medium distance, because of instabilities out of mouth.
  • a nozzle could be made even with a projectile according to the figure 3a by producing a tubular case having, on the projectile side, a gradual reduction of its internal diameter to a diameter smaller than that of the base of the projectile and then an increase in this internal diameter to that of the base of the projectile.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne le domaine des munitions à cartouche et, plus particulièrement, celui du montage ou blocage de projectiles dans les douilles de cartouche.The invention relates to the field of cartridge ammunition and, more particularly, to the mounting or blocking of projectiles in cartridge cases.

La cartouche à étui métallique en forme de bouteille et à percussion centrale est utilisée universellement pour tout l'armement léger. Elle est fondamentalement restée inchangée depuis son invention à la fin du XIXème siècle.Bottle-shaped and center-fire metal cartridge is universally used for all light armament. It has basically remained unchanged since its invention in the late nineteenth century.

Elle se compose, comme montré sur la figure 1, d'un étui tubulaire 1 en laiton, voire en acier contenant une charge de poudre propulsive 2 et recevant, à une première extrémité longitudinale 3, un culot 4 avec une amorce 5, et comportant, à son autre extrémité longitudinale 6, une réduction de diamètre formant un épaulement externe 7 puis un collet 8 et un projectile 9, avec un nez 91 de forme ogivale et une base 92 présentant une première partie de diamètre constant, suivie d'une seconde partie dont le diamètre diminue jusqu'à son culot 93, ce projectile étant enfoncé à force, voire serti dans le collet 8 au niveau de cette première partie de la base. L'épaulement est destiné à coopérer avec une pièce de l'arme de forme complémentaire permettant un positionnement longitudinal reproductible de la cartouche.It consists of, as shown on the figure 1 , a tubular case 1 made of brass, or even steel containing a charge of propellant powder 2 and receiving, at a first longitudinal end 3, a base 4 with a primer 5, and having, at its other longitudinal end 6, a reduction of diameter forming an outer shoulder 7 then a collar 8 and a projectile 9, with a nose 9 1 of ogival shape and a base 9 2 having a first portion of constant diameter, followed by a second portion whose diameter decreases to its base 9 3 , the projectile being pressed by force, or crimped into the collar 8 at the first part of the base. The shoulder is intended to cooperate with a part of the complementary shaped weapon for a reproducible longitudinal positioning of the cartridge.

Cet étui remplit plusieurs rôles :

  • Il assure l'intégrité mécanique du coup lors des phases de manipulation et de chargement, qui peuvent être brutales dans le cas d'armes à rechargement automatique,
  • Il assure, par son collet, un positionnement répétable du projectile, garant en partie de la précision du système, ainsi qu'un effort régulier d'arrachement du projectile ce qui permet d'assurer une balistique interne optimale et répétable,
  • D'une part, au départ du coup et sous l'action des forces de pression, le corps de l'étui se déforme de manière élastique et assure l'étanchéité (arrière) de la chambre et évite tout retour de gaz brûlés vers le tireur et, d'autre part, lorsque la pression chute, l'étui reprend sa cote d'origine ce qui permet son extraction en fin de cycle,
  • De part sa conception, le culot ne doit pas se détériorer de manière à éviter toute fuite de gaz autour de l'amorce, ou pire une éjection de celle-ci.
This case fulfills several roles:
  • It ensures the mechanical integrity of the blow during the handling and loading phases, which can be brutal in the case of weapons with automatic reloading,
  • It ensures, by its collar, a repetitive positioning of the projectile, guaranteeing in part the accuracy of the system, as well as a regular effort of tearing the projectile which ensures an optimal internal ballistics and repeatable,
  • On the one hand, at the start of the stroke and under the action of pressure forces, the body of the case deforms elastically and ensures the sealing (rear) of the chamber and prevents any return of burnt gases to the shooter and, on the other hand, when the pressure drops, the case returns to its original dimension, which allows its extraction at the end of the cycle,
  • By design, the base must not deteriorate so as to avoid any leakage of gas around the primer, or worse an ejection thereof.

On constate que le collet présente à lui seul un rôle central, puisqu'il assure :

  • l'interface entre l'étui et le projectile,
  • une bonne concentricité du coup,
  • un effort d'arrachement le plus constant possible dans toute la plage de température,
et qu'il se trouve contraint à la fois sur son diamètre extérieur, déterminé par la chambre de l'arme, et sur son diamètre intérieur, déterminé par le diamètre du projectile
De plus, du fait de la géométrie d'un étui en forme de bouteille, comme celui de la figure 1, qui est mise en oeuvre dans la plupart des munitions militaires modernes pour armes longues, le rattachement entre l'épaulement conique 7 et le collet cylindrique 8 est une zone de concentration de contraintes propice à produire une séparation des deux, le collet 8 restant « collé » dans la chambre tandis que le reste de l'étui est extrait, empêchant la réalimentation de l'arme.It is found that the collar alone has a central role, since it ensures:
  • the interface between the holster and the projectile,
  • a good concentricity of the blow,
  • the most constant pullout effort possible throughout the entire temperature range,
and that it is constrained both on its external diameter, determined by the chamber of the weapon, and on its internal diameter, determined by the diameter of the projectile
In addition, because of the geometry of a bottle-shaped case, such as that of the figure 1 , which is implemented in most modern military weapons ammunition long, the connection between the conical shoulder 7 and the cylindrical collar 8 is a stress concentration zone conducive to produce a separation of the two, the collar 8 remaining " glued "into the room while the rest of the case is extracted, preventing refilling of the weapon.

Par ailleurs, un étui représente de l'ordre de 50 % de la masse du coup, et 50 % de son prix, cette part étant en augmentation constante du fait de l'augmentation du prix du cuivre qui est le composant majoritaire du laiton.Moreover, a case represents about 50% of the mass of the blow, and 50% of its price, this part being constantly increasing because of the increase of the price of copper which is the majority component of the brass.

Des efforts importants ont été entrepris pour tenter de réduire, voire de supprimer, cet élément et ainsi diminuer de 50 % la masse des munitions.
Une première solution à consister à travailler sur des munitions dont la charge propulsive elle-même assurait l'intégrité mécanique du coup, l'étanchéité de la chambre étant assurée par la conception mécanique de celle-ci. Ces efforts ont culminés avec la « quasi-adoption » du fusil G11K2 par l'armée allemande au cours des années 80, et de sa munition de 4,7 x 33 mm sans étui.
Toutefois, ce type de cartouche présente un certain nombre d'inconvénients tels que :

  • le vieillissement de l'anneau d'étanchéité de la chambre,
  • un risque d'auto-inflammation en cas de présence de résidus de combustion,
  • un risque de contamination de l'arme par des morceaux de poudre en cas de mauvaise introduction de la munition en chambre.
Significant efforts have been made to reduce or even eliminate this element and thus reduce the mass of ammunition by 50%.
A first solution to be to work on ammunition whose propellant charge itself ensured the mechanical integrity of the blow, the sealing of the chamber being provided by the mechanical design thereof. These efforts culminated in the "near-adoption" of the G11K2 rifle by the German army in the 1980s, and its 4.7 x 33 mm ammunition without a case.
However, this type of cartridge has a number of disadvantages such as:
  • the aging of the sealing ring of the chamber,
  • a risk of auto-ignition in case of residues of combustion,
  • a risk of contamination of the weapon by pieces of powder in case of bad introduction of the ammunition in the room.

Une seconde solution a été le remplacement de l'étui en laiton ou en acier par un étui en alliage léger ou en matériaux composite, permettant de réduire de 2/3 la masse de l'étui, soit un gain global de masse de la cartouche d'environ 33 %.A second solution was the replacement of the case made of brass or steel with a case made of light alloy or composite material, to reduce by 2/3 the mass of the case, an overall weight gain of the cartridge about 33%.

L'utilisation de métaux plus légers que le laiton ou l'acier à été proposée. Cependant il n'existe pas d'alliage d'aluminium présentant à la fois la ténacité nécessaire à la tenue de l'amorce et une limite élastique évitant la formation de fissures sur le corps de l'étui. En effet, soit le culot résiste et des fissures apparaissent sur le corps, soit le corps résiste mais des fuites apparaissent au niveau du culot. De plus, en cas de rupture de l'étui, on assiste à des phénomènes d'aluminothermie, l'étui se consumant partiellement en générant des points chauds pouvant causer la destruction de l'arme. De ce fait, les applications des étuis en alliages légers sont limitées à certaines munitions d'armes de poing impliquant une faible pression de chambre.The use of lighter metals than brass or steel has been proposed. However, there is no aluminum alloy having both the toughness necessary for holding the primer and an elastic limit avoiding the formation of cracks on the body of the case. Indeed, either the pellet resists and cracks appear on the body, or the body resists but leaks appear at the base. In addition, in case of rupture of the case, there is a phenomenon of aluminothermie, the hull partially consuming by generating hot spots that can cause the destruction of the weapon. As a result, lightweight alloy case applications are limited to certain handgun ammunition involving low chamber pressure.

En parallèle, l'utilisation de polymères techniques, notamment ceux qualifiés à « haute température », a aussi été proposée. A ce titre, on connait la demande de brevet US2862446 qui décrit, comme montré sur la figure 2, une cartouche comportant un étui tubulaire 11 en polymère contenant une charge de poudre propulsive 12 et recevant, à une première extrémité longitudinale 13, un culot métallique 14 avec une amorce 15, et comportant, à l'autre extrémité longitudinale 16, une réduction de diamètre formant un épaulement 17 puis un collet 18 moulé sur un projectile 19.
Toutefois, l'utilisation de telles cartouches se heurte à de nombreuses difficultés, à savoir.

  • Lors de la réalisation des étuis par injection, le collet dont l'épaisseur est généralement plus faible que celle du reste de l'étui, peut présenter des irrégularités provoquées par un mauvais remplissage du moule, source de rebuts.
  • La moindre tenue mécanique du polymère comparé à celle du laiton implique d'utiliser des parois plus épaisses, ce qui réduit le volume utile de l'étui de l'ordre de 15 %,
  • Cette réduction du volume utile de l'étui implique d'utiliser, à projectile et performances identiques, une charge comprimée et, par voie de conséquence, d'augmenter la pression maximale de la chambre,
  • Lors de l'insertion du projectile, le collet gonfle, se raccourci et peut se craqueler.
  • Lors du tir, il arrive de temps en temps, entre une fois sur cent et une fois sur mille que le collet se sépare de l'étui et reste soudé à la chambre. Si ce taux d'incident est acceptable pour une application « civile », il est incompatible avec une application militaire.
In parallel, the use of technical polymers, especially those qualified at "high temperature", has also been proposed. As such, we know the patent application US2862446 which describes, as shown on the figure 2 , a cartridge comprising a tubular casing 11 of polymer containing a charge of propellant powder 12 and receiving, at a first longitudinal end 13, a metal base 14 with a primer 15, and having, at the other longitudinal end 16, a reduction of diameter forming a shoulder 17 and a collar 18 molded on a projectile 19.
However, the use of such cartridges faces many difficulties, namely.
  • When producing injection cases, the collet whose thickness is generally lower than that of the rest of the case, may have irregularities caused by poor filling of the mold, a source of rejects.
  • The lower mechanical strength of the polymer compared to that of brass involves using thicker walls, which reduces the useful volume of the case of the order of 15%,
  • This reduction in the useful volume of the case involves using, with identical projectile and performance, a compressed load and, consequently, increasing the maximum pressure of the chamber,
  • When inserting the projectile, the neck swells, shortens and can crack.
  • When shooting, it happens from time to time, between once in a hundred and once in a thousand that the collar separates from the holster and remains welded to the chamber. If this incident rate is acceptable for a "civilian" application, it is incompatible with a military application.

On connait aussi le brevet WO03036221 qui décrit une cartouche comportant d'une part un projectile avec un nez de forme ogivale et une base se terminant par un culot et, d'autre part, un étui tubulaire sans collet en polymère délimitant une chambre de réception d'une poudre propulsive fermée à une première extrémité longitudinale par un culot avec une amorce et à la seconde extrémité opposée à la première par la base du projectile, une partie de l'étui tubulaire sans collet enserrant une partie du projectile et ayant elle-même, au moins en partie, une forme externe tronconique. Toutefois un tel projectile comporte une chambre de combustion du même diamètre que celui du projectile ce qui limite considérablement la portée du projectile et ne permet pas, par exemple, de substituer les cartouches métalliques de type « bottleneck » ou « bouteille » à étui métallique de calibre 5,56 ou 7,62 telles que montrées par exemple sur la figure 1, par ce type de cartouche, mais seulement de les utiliser pour des exercices sur cibles à faible distance.We also know the patent WO03036221 which describes a cartridge comprising, on the one hand, a projectile with a nose of ogival shape and a base ending in a base, and, on the other hand, a tubular case without a polymer collar delimiting a chamber for receiving a closed propellant powder at a first longitudinal end by a pellet with a primer and at the second end opposite to the first by the base of the projectile, a part of the tubular casing without collar encircling a part of the projectile and itself having, at least in part , a frustoconical outer form. However, such a projectile has a combustion chamber of the same diameter as that of the projectile which considerably limits the scope of the projectile and does not allow, for example, to replace the metal cartridges "bottleneck" type or "bottle" to metal case of 5,56 or 7,62 caliber as shown for example on the figure 1 , by this type of cartridge, but only to use them for exercises on targets at short distance.

La demande US 2012/024183 A1 divulgue une cartouche selon de préambule de la revendication indépendante 1.Requirement US 2012/024183 A1 discloses a cartridge according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

Le but de l'invention est de résoudre les inconvénients précités en proposant une cartouche de faible poids et fiable lors de son utilisation donc compatible avec une utilisation dans le domaine militaire et, préférablement, substituable aux cartouches métalliques de type « bottleneck » ou « bouteille » à étui métallique de calibre 5,56 ou 7,62.The object of the invention is to solve the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a cartridge of low weight and reliable when used so compatible with use in the military field and, preferably, substitutable for metal cartridges "bottleneck" type or "bottle" With a metal case of 5.56 or 7.62 gauge.

La solution apportée est une cartouche selon la revendication indépendante 1, notamment à étui composite, comportant d'une part un projectile avec un nez de forme ogivale et une base se terminant par un culot et, d'autre part, un étui tubulaire sans collet délimitant une chambre de réception d'une poudre propulsive fermée à une première extrémité longitudinale par un culot avec une amorce et à la seconde extrémité longitudinale opposée à la première par le projectile, une partie de l'étui tubulaire sans collet enserrant une partie du projectile et ayant elle-même, au moins en partie, une forme externe tronconique, cartouche caractérisée en ce que :

  • la chambre de réception de la poudre propulsive comporte, côté projectile, une réduction de son diamètre sur tout ou partie de sa périphérie jusqu'à celui du culot du et jusqu'à ce culot qui, alors, ferme ladite seconde extrémité longitudinale de la chambre,
  • le rapport entre la longueur du nez du projectile (29, 49) et son diamètre maximal est compris entre 2,9 et 4,1.
Une telle cartouche a un nez plus long que celui des cartouches de l'état de la technique, offrant ainsi une traînée réduite en phase de vol supersonique. La base du projectile peut par exemple comporter une extrémité plate, creuse ou présentant un restreint de culot.The solution provided is a cartridge according to independent claim 1, in particular with a composite case, comprising on the one hand a projectile with a nose of ogival shape and a base ending in a base and, on the other hand, a tubular case without collar. defining a receiving chamber of a propellant powder closed at a first longitudinal end by a base with a primer and at the second longitudinal end opposite to the first by the projectile, a portion of the tubular case without collar enclosing a portion of the projectile and having, at least in part, an external form frustoconical cartridge characterized in that
  • the propellant powder receiving chamber comprises, on the projectile side, a reduction in its diameter over all or part of its periphery up to that of the base of and up to that base which then closes said second longitudinal end of the chamber ,
  • the ratio of the length of the nose of the projectile (29, 49) to its maximum diameter is between 2.9 and 4.1.
Such a cartridge has a nose longer than the cartridges of the state of the art, thus offering reduced drag in the supersonic flight phase. The base of the projectile may for example have a flat end, hollow or having a restricted base.

Une telle cartouche est notamment destinée à être substituée aux munitions traditionnelles de type « bottleneck » ou « bouteille » à étui métallique, la forme externe de l'étui étant, excepté le collet, alors la même que celle d'un étui métallique, et la forme externe tronconique de la partie enserrant une partie du projectile servant d'épaulement sur l'arme.Such a cartridge is intended in particular to be substituted for traditional "bottleneck" or "bottle" munitions with a metal case, the outer shape of the case being, except for the collar, then the same as that of a metal case, and the frustoconical outer shape of the part enclosing a portion of the projectile serving as a shoulder on the weapon.

Par ailleurs, la réduction du diamètre de la chambre de combustion jusqu'à celui du culot du projectile correspond à une réduction progressive du diamètre interne de l'étui sur tout ou partie de son périmètre, formant alors un convergent qui permet d'augmenter la vitesse des gaz de combustion et donc d'accroître la vitesse de sortie du projectile.Moreover, the reduction of the diameter of the combustion chamber to that of the base of the projectile corresponds to a progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the holster over all or part of its perimeter, thus forming a convergent which makes it possible to increase the velocity of the combustion gases and thus increase the exit velocity of the projectile.

Ainsi, malgré la diminution du volume de la chambre de réception de la poudre propulsive due à l'augmentation de la longueur du projectile pour obtenir un rapport supérieur à 2,9, la forme de ce dernier et la présence du convergent permettent de compenser la quantité moindre de poudre propulsive contenue dans la cartouche.Thus, despite the decrease in the volume of the propellant powder receiving chamber due to the increase in the length of the projectile to obtain a ratio greater than 2.9, the shape of the latter and the presence of the convergent make it possible to compensate the lower amount of propellant powder contained in the cartridge.

Selon une caractéristique particulière, la cartouche comporte un étui tubulaire en polymère tandis que le culot de la cartouche, associé à l'amorce, est par exemple en aluminium formant ainsi un étui composite.According to a particular characteristic, the cartridge comprises a tubular case of polymer while the base of the cartridge, associated with the primer, is for example made of aluminum thus forming a composite case.

En outre, par rapport aux cartouches existantes, une telle cartouche est beaucoup plus légère et permet l'utilisation d'un projectile possédant un nez plus long, typiquement d'un calibre en plus, permettant, d'accroître la portée efficace par rapport aux cartouches de l'état de la technique. A titre d'exemple, par rapport à une munition de calibre 7,62x51 mm type M80, une cartouche selon l'invention, utilisant un projectile chemisé à noyau plomb de même masse que le projectile M80 mais d'un allongement supérieur, permet d'accroître la portée efficace d'environ 200m.In addition, compared to existing cartridges, such a cartridge is much lighter and allows the use of a projectile having a longer nose, typically one caliber more, allowing to increase the effective range compared to cartridges of the state of the art. By way of example, compared with a munition of 7.62 × 51 mm type M80, a cartridge according to the invention, using a jacketed projectile with a lead nucleus of the same mass as the M80 projectile but of greater elongation, makes it possible to increase the effective range of about 200m.

Le nez de forme ogivale peut par exemple être de type tangent, sécant ou hybride, c'est-à-dire combinant ces deux profils ou à traînée minimale comme par exemple de type L-D ou L-V Haack.The nose of ogival shape may for example be of the tangent type, secant or hybrid, that is to say combining these two profiles or minimal drag such as L-D type or L-V Haack.

Selon l'invention, le rapport entre la longueur du nez du projectile et son diamètre maximal est compris entre 2,9 et 4,1 et, préférablement, d'environ 3,5.According to the invention, the ratio between the length of the nose of the projectile and its maximum diameter is between 2.9 and 4.1 and, preferably, about 3.5.

Selon une autre caractéristique, la réduction du diamètre de la chambre de combustion jusqu'à celui du culot du projectile correspond à une réduction progressive du diamètre interne de l'étui, ce dernier ayant, à ce niveau, une forme tronconique de demi angle α compris entre 20 et 40 degrés.According to another characteristic, the reduction of the diameter of the combustion chamber to that of the base of the projectile corresponds to a progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the case, the latter having, at this level, a frustoconical shape of half-angle α between 20 and 40 degrees.

Selon une autre caractéristique particulière, le projectile à une base principalement cylindrique et l'étui comporte, au niveau de sa seconde extrémité longitudinale et dans la direction culot-projectile, une première partie comportant une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne sur tout ou partie de son périmètre, par exemple en formant des nervures, une seconde partie d'épaisseur constante dont la face interne est, au moins partiellement, et préférentiellement totalement en contact avec le projectile puis une partie terminale constituée par l'épaulement externe dont la face interne est en contact avec le projectile.According to another particular feature, the projectile has a mainly cylindrical base and the case has, at its second longitudinal end and in the base-projectile direction, a first part comprising a progressive reduction of its internal diameter on all or part of its perimeter, for example by forming ribs, a second portion of constant thickness whose inner face is, at least partially, and preferably completely in contact with the projectile and an end portion constituted by the outer shoulder whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.

Selon une caractéristique additionnelle, la première partie comporte une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne jusqu'au culot du projectile et présentant une forme tronconique et la longueur de la seconde partie est au moins égale à un tiers de celle de la partie terminale.According to an additional characteristic, the first part comprises a progressive reduction of its internal diameter to the base of the projectile and having a frustoconical shape and the length of the second part is at least equal to one third of that of the end portion.

Selon une autre caractéristique particulière permettant de former une tuyère à la sortie de la chambre de combustion côté projectile, le projectile a une base présentant, au moins sur une partie, une diminution progressive de son diamètre jusqu'à son culot et, préférentiellement, l'étui comporte, au niveau de sa seconde extrémité longitudinale et dans la direction culot-projectile, une première partie comportant une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne jusqu'au culot du projectile sur tout ou partie de son périmètre, une seconde partie de diamètre externe égal à celui de la première partie et de diamètre interne croissant en épousant une partie de la base du projectile puis une partie terminale constituée par l'épaulement dont la face interne est en contact avec le projectile.According to another particular characteristic making it possible to form a nozzle at the outlet of the combustion chamber on the projectile side, the projectile has a base having, at least in part, a progressive decrease in its diameter to its base and, preferably, the case comprises, at its second longitudinal end and in the base-projectile direction, a first part comprising a progressive reduction of its internal diameter to the base of the projectile on all or part of its perimeter, a second part of external diameter equal to that of the first part and increasing internal diameter by marrying a portion of the base of the projectile and an end portion constituted by the shoulder whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.

Selon une caractéristique, la longueur de la seconde partie est au moins égale à un tiers de celle de la troisième partieAccording to one characteristic, the length of the second part is at least equal to one third of that of the third part

Selon une caractéristique additionnelle, une cartouche selon l'invention a un calibre de 5,56 mm, ou 7,62 mm ou 12,7 mm et, préférentiellement, sa longueur maximale est, respectivement de 57,4 mm (2,26 in), de 71,9 mm (2,83 in), de 140,8 mm (5,545 in).According to an additional feature, a cartridge according to the invention has a caliber of 5.56 mm, or 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm and, preferably, its maximum length is 57.4 mm (2.26 in ), 71.9 mm (2.83 in), 140.8 mm (5.545 in).

D'autres avantages et caractéristiques apparaîtront dans la description de plusieurs modes de réalisation de l'invention au regard des figures annexées parmi lesquelles :

  • la figure 3a montre un schéma d'une coupe longitudinale d'une cartouche selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention au regard d'une cartouche selon la figure 1,
  • la figure 3b présente une partie grossie de la figure 3a, en l'occurrence celle d'une partie de l'extrémité de l'étui situé du côté du projectile,
  • la figure 4 montre un schéma d'une coupe longitudinale d'une cartouche selon un second mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 4b présente une partie grossie de la figure 4a, en l'occurrence celle d'une partie de l'extrémité de l'étui situé du côté du projectile.
Other advantages and features will appear in the description of several embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended figures among which:
  • the figure 3a shows a diagram of a longitudinal section of a cartridge according to a first embodiment of the invention with regard to a cartridge according to the figure 1 ,
  • the figure 3b presents an enlarged part of the figure 3a , in this case that of a part of the end of the holster located on the side of the projectile,
  • the figure 4 shows a diagram of a longitudinal section of a cartridge according to a second embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 4b presents an enlarged part of the figure 4a , in this case that of a portion of the end of the holster located on the side of the projectile.

La figure 3a montre un schéma d'une coupe longitudinale d'une cartouche selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention au regard d'une cartouche selon la figure 1.The figure 3a shows a diagram of a longitudinal section of a cartridge according to a first embodiment of the invention with regard to a cartridge according to the figure 1 .

Cette cartouche 20, de calibre 7,62 mm, comprend d'une part un projectile 29 avec un nez 30 de forme ogivale, et une base cylindrique 31 se terminant par un culot 32 et, d'autre part, un étui tubulaire 21 en polymère et en forme de bouteille contenant une charge de poudre propulsive 22 et recevant, à une première extrémité longitudinale 23, un culot 24 avec une amorce 25, et comportant, à sa seconde extrémité longitudinale 26, et dans la direction culot 24-projectile 29 :

  • une première partie 33 avec un diamètre externe D1 constant et une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne puis,
  • une seconde partie 34 de diamètre externe D1 et d'épaisseur constante dont la face interne est totalement en contact avec le projectile puis,
  • une partie terminale constituée par une réduction progressive de son diamètre externe formant un épaulement externe 27 dont la face interne est en contact avec le projectile 29. L'épaulement 27 est destiné à coopérer avec une pièce d'une arme apte à tirer ce type de cartouche, cette pièce de l'arme étant de forme complémentaire et permettant un positionnement longitudinal reproductible de la cartouche.
This cartridge 20, of 7.62 mm caliber, comprises on the one hand a projectile 29 with a nose 30 of ogival shape, and a cylindrical base 31 ending in a base 32 and, on the other hand, a tubular case 21 in polymer and bottle-shaped containing a charge of propellant powder 22 and receiving, at a first longitudinal end 23, a pellet 24 with a primer 25, and having, at its second longitudinal end 26, and in the direction 24-projectile pellet 29 :
  • a first portion 33 with a constant outer diameter D1 and a progressive reduction of its internal diameter, then
  • a second portion 34 of external diameter D1 and constant thickness whose inner face is fully in contact with the projectile then,
  • an end portion consisting of a progressive reduction of its outer diameter forming an outer shoulder 27 whose inner face is in contact with the projectile 29. The shoulder 27 is intended to cooperate with a piece of a weapon capable of pulling this type of cartridge, this piece of the weapon being of complementary shape and allowing a reproducible longitudinal positioning of the cartridge.

Ainsi, la face interne 35 de l'épaulement 27 est en contact avec le projectile 29 et constitue la partie terminale de l'étui 21 côté projectile 29.Thus, the inner face 35 of the shoulder 27 is in contact with the projectile 29 and constitutes the end portion of the holster 21 on the projectile side 29.

L'étui est réalisé en polymère et la fixation du projectile à l'étui est obtenue par surmoulage. Le culot 24 est réalisé en matériau métallique léger, en l'occurrence en aluminium. Il est fixé à l'arrière de l'étui par collage ou par filetage / taraudage.The case is made of polymer and the fixing of the projectile to the case is obtained by overmolding. The base 24 is made of light metal material, in this case aluminum. It is attached to the back of the case by gluing or threading / tapping.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, le rapport entre la longueur du nez du projectile et son diamètre maximal est égal à 3,5. De plus, le rapport de la longueur de la deuxième partie sur la longueur de la troisième partie est d'environ 0,6.In this embodiment, the ratio between the length of the nose of the projectile and its maximum diameter is equal to 3.5. In addition, the ratio of the length of the second portion to the length of the third portion is about 0.6.

Le corps de l'étui est caractérisé par une absence de collet, rendu inutile par le processus de surmoulage. La liaison entre l'étui et le projectile se fait désormais au niveau des dites seconde et troisième parties 31 et 27, ce qui permet d'assurer une excellente tenue mécanique de l'ensemble, d'en garantir la concentricité, et d'utiliser l'espace libéré par la suppression du collet pour allonger le nez du projectile et ainsi réduire sa trainée.
Cette réduction de la trainée est indispensable car elle permet, tout en assurant la nécessaire concordance de trajectoire avec les chargements existants, soit d'utiliser un projectile plus léger tiré à vitesse initiale identique, soit un projectile de masse identique tiré avec une vitesse initiale réduite.
Dans les deux cas, ceci permet une réduction de l'énergie cinétique initiale qui s'accorde avec la nécessaire réduction de la charge propulsive provoquée par l'utilisation d'étuis composites et ceci, sans réduction des performances terminales à moyenne ou longue distance.
The body of the case is characterized by an absence of collar, made unnecessary by the overmolding process. The connection between the case and the projectile is now at said second and third parts 31 and 27, which ensures excellent mechanical strength of the assembly, to ensure the concentricity, and to use space released by the removal of the collar to lengthen the nose of the projectile and thus reduce its drag.
This reduction of the drag is essential because it allows, while ensuring the necessary alignment of trajectory with the existing loadings, either to use a lighter projectile fired at identical initial speed, or a projectile of identical mass fired with a reduced initial velocity .
In both cases, this allows a reduction of the initial kinetic energy that is consistent with the necessary reduction of the propellant charge caused by the use of composite cases and this, without reducing terminal performance at medium or long distance.

Une telle munition composite à culot rapporté en alliage léger, reprenant le profil extérieur de la 7,62 x 51 mm, ayant un étui d'une capacité de 2,85 cm3, contre 3,5 cm3 pour la 7,62 x 51 mm à étui laiton, et équipée d'un projectile « sans plomb » d'une masse de 8,4 grammes à trainée réduite, propulsé à une vitesse initiale de 830 m/s dans un tube de 61 cm de longueur, délivre sensiblement les mêmes performances à 600 m que le chargement de type M80 à balle ordinaire, mais avec un recul réduit de l'ordre de 20 %, lié à la diminution de la charge propulsive et de la masse du projectile, et une masse du coup réduite de presque 40% grâce aux gains sur l'étui, sur le projectile et sur la masse de poudre.Such a composite ammunition with a light alloy base, with the outside profile of the 7.62 x 51 mm, having a case with a capacity of 2.85 cm 3 , against 3.5 cm 3 for the 7.62 x 51 mm brass case, and equipped with a "lead-free" projectile a mass of 8.4 grams with reduced drag, propelled at an initial speed of 830 m / s in a 61 cm long tube, delivers substantially the same performance at 600 m as the ordinary ball M80 loading, but with a reduced retreat of about 20%, related to the decrease of the propulsive charge and the mass of the projectile, and a mass of the blow reduced by almost 40% thanks to the gains on the holster, on the projectile and on the powder mass.

Pour un mitrailleur utilisant une arme dans ce calibre, et disposant d'une dotation de 800 cartouches, cela représente un gain de presque 8 kg, la réduction du recul de l'arme permettant un gain significatif en précision, et la réduction de la masse de poudre permet de limiter l'échauffement de l'arme à même cadence de tir pratique.For a gunner using a weapon in this caliber, and having an endowment of 800 cartridges, that represents a gain of almost 8 kg, the reduction of the recoil of the weapon allowing a significant gain in precision, and the reduction of the mass of powder makes it possible to limit the heating of the weapon with the same rate of practical fire.

La suppression du collet libère un « vent » latéral de 0,45 mm de part et d'autre du projectile, qui doit franchir un « saut » supplémentaire de 8,16 mm avant d'arriver au contact du cône de forcement et de prendre les rayures. Pour éviter que ce saut n'entraîne une perte de précision, le pied de l'ogive présente un profil tangent qui lui permet de « s'auto-centrer » lors de l'arrivée sur le cône de forcement.The collapse of the collar releases a lateral "wind" of 0.45 mm on either side of the projectile, which must pass an additional "jump" of 8.16 mm before coming into contact with the forcing cone and taking the stripes. To prevent this jump from causing a loss of precision, the foot of the warhead has a tangent profile that allows him to "self-center" when arriving on the forcing cone.

L'utilisation d'un projectile à la fois plus long que celui d'origine et réalisé dans une matière moins dense que le plomb entraine une contrainte forte sur sa stabilité gyroscopique. Pour conserver une valeur conforme à l'usage militaire, le projectile présente une base évidée, telle qu'on peut en rencontrer sur les balles dites « Minié » ou sur les projectiles de type « Très Haute Vitesse » commercialisés par la société SFM au début des années 80.The use of a projectile both longer than the original one and realized in a material less dense than the lead causes a strong constraint on its gyroscopic stability. To maintain a value consistent with military use, the projectile has a recessed base, such as can be found on the balls called "Minie" or the projectiles type "Very High Speed" marketed by the company SFM early of the 80s.

Cet évidement reste d'un diamètre faible pour éviter tout risque d'expansion ou de fragmentation de cette base creuse, même après basculement de 180° sur son axe, ce qui peut se produire dans le cas d'un impact dans un milieu semi-liquidien.This recess remains of a small diameter to avoid any risk of expansion or fragmentation of this hollow base, even after tilting 180 ° on its axis, which can occur in the case of an impact in a semi- fluid.

Si l'exemple donné se focalise sur la comparaison avec la cartouche de 7,62 x 51 mm, il est bien entendu transposable à toute munition conventionnelle de type « bouteille » pour arme longue, avec des gains équivalents tels que par, exemple, une réduction de la masse du coup et une réduction du recul à iso-performances.If the example given focuses on the comparison with the 7.62 x 51 mm cartridge, it is of course transposable to any conventional ammunition type "bottle" for long weapon, with equivalent gains such as for example, a reduction of the mass of the blow and a reduction of the recoil at iso-performances.

La figure 4 montre une cartouche 40 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,The figure 4 shows a cartridge 40 according to a first embodiment of the invention,

Cette cartouche 40 comprend d'une part un projectile 49 avec un nez 40 de forme ogivale et une base 51 présentant une diminution progressive de son diamètre jusqu'à son culot 52 et, d'autre part, un étui tubulaire 41 en polymère et en forme de bouteille contenant une charge de poudre propulsive 42, et recevant à une première extrémité longitudinale 43 un culot 44 avec une amorce 45, et comportant, à sa seconde extrémité longitudinale 46, et dans la direction culot 44-projectile 49, une première partie 53 avec un diamètre externe D1 constant et une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne, une seconde partie 54 de diamètre externe D1 et de diamètre interne croissant en épousant une partie correspondante de la base du projectile, puis une partie terminale constituée par une réduction progressive de son diamètre externe formant un épaulement externe 47 dont la face interne est en contact avec le projectile.This cartridge 40 comprises on the one hand a projectile 49 with a nose 40 of ogival shape and a base 51 having a progressive decrease in its diameter to its base 52 and, on the other hand, a tubular case 41 made of polymer and a bottle shape containing a charge of propellant powder 42, and receiving at a first longitudinal end 43 a pellet 44 with a primer 45, and having, at its second longitudinal end 46, and in the direction of pellet 44-projectile 49, a first part 53 with a constant outer diameter D1 and a gradual reduction in its internal diameter, a second portion 54 of outer diameter D1 and increasing inner diameter by marrying a corresponding portion of the projectile base, then an end portion constituted by a progressive reduction of its outer diameter forming an outer shoulder 47 whose inner face is in contact with the projectile.

La réduction progressive du diamètre interne de l'étui est telle qu'il présente, à ce niveau une forme interne tronconique et, préférentiellement I,The progressive reduction of the internal diameter of the case is such that it has, at this level, a frustoconical internal shape and, preferably, I,

Ainsi, la face interne 55 de l'épaulement 47 est en contact avec le projectile 49 et constitue la partie terminale de l'étui 41 côté projectile 49.Thus, the inner face 55 of the shoulder 47 is in contact with the projectile 49 and constitutes the end portion of the case 41 projectile side 49.

L'étui est réalisé en polymère et la fixation du projectile à l'étui est obtenue par surmoulage. Le culot 44 est réalisé en matériau métallique léger, en l'occurrence en aluminium. Il est fixé à l'arrière de l'étui selon le mode de réalisation présenté dans le brevet US2862446 .The case is made of polymer and the fixing of the projectile to the case is obtained by overmolding. The base 44 is made of light metal material, in this case aluminum. It is attached to the back of the case according to the embodiment shown in the patent US2862446 .

Dans ce mode de réalisation, le rapport entre la longueur du nez du projectile et son diamètre maximal est égal à 3. Ce type de profil de projectile à culot restreint permet une réduction important de la traînée, principalement dans le domaine subsonique, donc aux longues distances, avec une légère diminution des performances à courte et moyenne distance, à cause des instabilités en sortie de bouche.In this embodiment, the ratio between the projectile nose length and its maximum diameter is equal to 3. This type of narrow-base projectile profile allows a significant reduction of the drag, mainly in the subsonic domain, so in the long run. distances, with a slight decrease in performance at short and medium distance, because of instabilities out of mouth.

Bien évidemment, sans sortie su cadre de l'invention, une tuyère pourrait être réalisée même avec un projectile selon la figure 3a en réalisant un étui tubulaire comportant, côté projectile une réduction progressive de son diamètre interne jusqu'à un diamètre inférieur à celui du culot du projectile puis une augmentation de ce diamètre interne jusqu'à celui du culot du projectile.Of course, without leaving the scope of the invention, a nozzle could be made even with a projectile according to the figure 3a by producing a tubular case having, on the projectile side, a gradual reduction of its internal diameter to a diameter smaller than that of the base of the projectile and then an increase in this internal diameter to that of the base of the projectile.

Claims (10)

  1. A cartridge comprising, on the one hand, a projectile (29, 49) with an ogival-shaped nose (30, 50) and a base (31, 51) ending with a head (32, 52) and, on the other hand, a polymer neckless tubular case (21, 41) defining a propellant powder receiving chamber closed, on the one hand, at a first longitudinal end (23, 43) by a head (24, 44) with a primer (25, 45) and, on the other hand, at the second longitudinal end (26, 46), opposite to the first one, by the projectile, wherein a portion (27, 34, 47, 54) of the neckless tubular case (21, 41) encloses a portion of the projectile and has itself, at least in part, a frustoconical external shape (27, 47), cartridge characterized in that:
    - the propellant powder receiving chamber has, on the projectile side, a reduction of its diameter over all or part of its periphery up to that of the head (32, 52) of the projectile (29, 49), and up to that head which then closes said second longitudinal end of the chamber,
    - the ratio between the length of the nose of the projectile (29, 49) and its maximum diameter is between 2.9 and 4.1 and, preferably, is about 3.5.
  2. The cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the reduction of the diameter of the combustion chamber up to that of the head of the projectile corresponds to a gradual reduction of the internal diameter of the case, the latter having, at this level, a frustoconical shape with a half-angle α between 20 and 40 degrees.
  3. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the projectile (29) has a mainly cylindrical base (31).
  4. The cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the case (21) has, at its second longitudinal end (26) and in the head (24) - projectile (29) direction, a first portion (33) having a gradual reduction of its internal diameter over all or part of its perimeter, a second portion (34) of a constant thickness, the inner face (36) of which is, at least partially, and preferably completely in contact with the projectile (29) and then a terminal portion (27) constituted by the shoulder (27), the inner face (35) of which is in contact with the projectile (29).
  5. The cartridge according to claim 4, characterized in that the first portion (33) has a gradual reduction of its internal diameter up to the head (32) of the projectile and having a frustoconical shape and the length of the second portion (34) is at least equal to a third of that of the terminal portion (27).
  6. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the projectile (49) has a base (51) having, at least in part, a gradual reduction of its diameter up to its head (52).
  7. The cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that the case (41) has, at its second longitudinal end (46) and in the head (44) - projectile (49) direction, a first portion (53) having, over all or part of its perimeter, a gradual reduction of its internal diameter up to the head (52) of the projectile (49), a second portion (54) of an external diameter equal to that of the first portion (53) and of an increasing internal diameter conforming to a portion of the base (51) of the projectile (49) and then a terminal portion constituted by the shoulder (47), the inner face (55) of which is in contact with the projectile (49).
  8. The cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that the length of the second portion (54) is at least equal to a third of that of the terminal portion (47).
  9. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that its caliber is 5.56 mm, or 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm.
  10. The cartridge according to claim 9, characterized in that either its caliber is 5.56 mm and its maximum length is 57.4 mm (2.26 in), or its caliber is 7.62 mm and its maximum length is 71.9 mm (2.83 in), or its caliber is 12.7 mm and its maximum length is 140.8 mm (5.545 in).
EP14742259.6A 2013-05-15 2014-05-13 Cartridge with a neckless case Active EP2997310B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1301114A FR3005726B1 (en) 2013-05-15 2013-05-15 BOTTLE-LIKE CARTRIDGE
PCT/FR2014/000105 WO2014184451A1 (en) 2013-05-15 2014-05-13 Flangeless cartridge

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2997310A1 EP2997310A1 (en) 2016-03-23
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US (1) US9587919B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2997310B1 (en)
BR (1) BR112015028635B1 (en)
FR (1) FR3005726B1 (en)
IL (1) IL242582B (en)
WO (1) WO2014184451A1 (en)

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US11118851B2 (en) 2016-03-25 2021-09-14 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Reduced energy MSR system
EP3433561B1 (en) 2016-03-25 2021-03-17 Vista Outdoor Operations LLC Reduced energy msr system
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR112015028635B1 (en) 2021-11-23
EP2997310A1 (en) 2016-03-23
FR3005726B1 (en) 2018-03-02
WO2014184451A1 (en) 2014-11-20
BR112015028635A2 (en) 2020-10-27
US20160091288A1 (en) 2016-03-31
IL242582B (en) 2020-04-30
US9587919B2 (en) 2017-03-07
FR3005726A1 (en) 2014-11-21

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