GB2535023A

GB2535023A - Improvements in or relating to linear cutting charges

Info

Publication number: GB2535023A
Application number: GB1601733.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Alford Roland; Alford Sidney
Original assignee: Alford Research Ltd
Current assignee: Alford Research Ltd
Priority date: 2015-02-02
Filing date: 2016-02-01
Publication date: 2016-08-10
Anticipated expiration: 2036-02-01
Also published as: GB2535023B; GB201601733D0; GB2554968A; GB201709461D0; GB2554968B

Abstract

A dual purpose user-fillable linear cutting charge comprises an elongate body 110 having a longitudinal cavity for receiving a liner and explosive material. The cavity, in use, can interchangeably be fitted with either a liner 150 for terrestrial use or a liner 170 for underwater use.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO LINEAR CUTTING CHARGES

The present invention relates generally to shaped charges, which are explosive charges shaped to focus the effect of an explosive's energy, and particularly to linear shaped charges which are also known as linear cutting charges (LCC).

An LCC has a liner consisting of, comprising or including a generally V-shaped profile and varying length. Explosive is then loaded behind the liner and the explosive is encased within a suitable material that serves to protect the explosive and to confine (tamp) it on detonation. The charge is detonated at some point in the explosive above the liner apex. The detonation projects the liner to form a continuous, knife-like (planar) jet. The jet cuts material in its path, to a depth dependent on the size of the charge and materials used in the charge. LCCs are used, for example, in the cutting of rolled steel joists and other structural targets, such as in the controlled demolition of buildings.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in or relating to LCC's.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a dual purpose user-fillable linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal cavity for receiving a liner and explosive material, in which the cavity can interchangeably be fitted with either a liner for terrestrial use or a liner for underwater use.

The cavity may be provided with retention means for optionally retaining either a terrestrial use liner or an underwater use liner.

The retaining means may comprise an elongate channel. The channel is defined by a pair of spaced, longitudinal flanges, for example defining a gap therebetween. In some embodiments the flanges are spaced to allow the edges of a liner to fit between them; retaining the liner with either a loose fit or a tight fit.

The flanges may be inclined to the body sidewall; in other words the flanges may extend at an angle from the sidewall.

The liner for terrestrial use may be a generally chevron-shape or a generally V-shape linear cutting charge liner.

The liner for underwater use may be a sealable hollow section liner, such as a box-sectioned liner.

The body may be a longitudinal generally U-section of material. In some embodiments the body is formed from a pair of spaced longitudinal, rectilinear sidewalls joined at one end by a rectilinear base.

The elongate body may be open at both ends and the charge may further comprise an end cap for either or both ends of the elongate body.

An end cap or plug for closing an end of the body may be provided. End caps or plugs for closing both ends of the body may be provided. The end caps or plugs may seal the end/s.

The body may be formed from metal, for example aluminium. In some embodiments the body is an aluminium extrusion.

The body may be formed as a longitudinal gully-like channel with generally parallel sidewalls defining a longitudinal opening.

A longitudinal cover or lid may be provided.

The body may be sealable. For example the ends of the body may be welded closed.

The body may be formed so that it can be cut to a required length. In some embodiments, for example, the only requirements are a flat working surface and a cutting tool such as a hack-saw. The user cuts the charges to the lengths required and fits plastic end-caps to each end of the charge. The end-caps may be sealed with, for example, silicone rubber for use under water. The end caps may be designed to fit firmly onto the ends of the charge cases. In some embodiments a sealant should be used for underwater use.

The charge may be formed as an aluminium-bodied explosive linear cutting charge which is user filled and supplied in kit form.

The charge cases may be assembled in sizes corresponding to particular applications, and then filled with, for example, plastic explosive.

Charges may, for example, be assembled from pre-formed one metre or half metre lengths of extruded aluminium. In some embodiments a copper liner may be factory fitted and sealed in place.

The present invention also provides a charge as described herein in combination with a terrestrial or underwater liner.

The liner may be formed from copper.

The liner may be pre-fitted into the body.

The present invention also provides an explosive charge comprising a longitudinal U-section of material having features that allow a generally chevron-shaped linear cutting charge liner or a sealed box-section liner to be interchangeably fitted.

The charge may be adapted or adaptable for use terrestrially.

The charge may be adapted or adaptable for use underwater.

The liner may be a pre-sealed generally tubular liner.

The cross-section of the liner may be generally: round; square; square with rounded corners; or rhomboid.

The body may be formed as a single piece.

The body may be a generally U-section channel.

The body may further comprise a lid/roof, which may be formed integrally with the body, or may be formed separately and be attached or attachable to the body.

The body may further comprise end caps.

The body may be an extrusion.

The liner may be a sealed hollow section liner.

The present invention also provides a multi-purpose, user-fillable linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal cavity for receiving an elongate liner and for receiving explosive material, in which the cavity can interchangeably be fitted with two or more different types of liner.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a dual purpose user-fillable linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal cavity for receiving a liner and explosive material, in which the cavity can interchangeably retain a sealable hollow section liner or a V-section liner.

It is therefore possible to exchange the liners to suit a particular purpose.

The present invention also provides a linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal channel for receiving explosive material, and comprising a liner which is received in the channel, in which the liner is a pre-sealed generally tubular liner.

The body may be formed as a single piece, for example as an extrusion.

The body may be a generally U-section channel.

The body may further comprise a lid/roof.

The body may further comprise end caps.

The present invention also provides a linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal channel for receiving explosive material, in which the channel can interchangeably retain a pre-sealed, hollow-section tubular liner or a V-section liner.

The present invention also provides a charge substantially as shown and/or described herein.

The present invention also provides a charge as described herein and filled with explosive material.

The present invention also provides linear cutting charge kit comprising an elongate body, a liner for terrestrial use and a liner for underwater use, the liners can be interchangeably fitted into the body.

Different aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used separately or together.

Further particular and preferred aspects of the present invention are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Features of the dependent claims may be combined with the features of the independent claims as appropriate, and in combination other than those explicitly set out in the claims.

The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure I is a perspective view of a charge body formed in accordance with the present invention; Figure 2 is a section of the body of Figure I Figure 3 is a section of a liner; Figure 4 is a perspective view of a charge body of the type shown in Figures I and 2 shown fitted with a liner of the type shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 is an enlarged view of one end of the charge of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a section of the charge of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a perspective view of an alternative liner; Figure 8 is a section of the liner of Figure 7; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a charge body of the type shown in Figures I and 2 shown fitted with a liner as shown in Figures 7 and 8; Figure 10 is an enlarged view of one end of the charge of Figure 9; Figure 11 is a section of the charge of Figure 10; Figure 12 shows a linear cutting charge kit formed in accordance with the present 20 invention; Figure 13 is a section of a charge body forming part of the kit of Figure 12; Figures 14 and 15 are sections of interchangeable liners forming part of the kit of Figure 12; Figures 16 and 17 respectively show the liners of Figures 14 and 15 fitted into the body of Figure 13; Figure 18 shows the liners of both Figures 14 and 15 fitted into the body of Figure 13; Figure 19 is a perspective view of one end of a pre-sealed liner formed according to the present invention; Figure 20 is an end view showing the liner of Figure 19 fitted into a charge body; Figure 21 is a perspective view of one end of the charge of Figure 20; Figure 22 shows the liner of Figure 21 with a roof/lid removed; and Figure 23 is an end view of the liner of Figure 19.

Example embodiments are described below in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments can be provided in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein.

Accordingly, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take on various alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail below as examples. There is no intent to limit to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims should be included. Elements of the example embodiments are consistently denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings and detailed description where appropriate.

The terminology used herein to describe embodiments is not intended to limit the scope. The articles "a," "an," and "the" are singular in that they have a single referent, however the use of the singular form in the present document should not preclude the presence of more than one referent. In other words, elements referred to in the singular can number one or more, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, items, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, items, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. It will be further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted as is customary in the relevant art and not in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Referring first to Figures I and 2 there is shown a charge body generally indicated 10. The body 10 comprises an elongate, generally U-section member. The body is a generally square longitudinal section comprising a generally rectangular floor or base and two sidewalls 20, 25 projecting from each long side of the base and extending generally parallel to each other along the length of the base.

The interior of each sidewall 20, 25 is provided with a first longitudinal flange 30a, 30b and a second longitudinal flange 35a, 35b. The respective flanges are spaced from each other to define a longitudinal channel 40a, 40b therebetween.

The flanges 30a, 30b are inclined and project inwardly and upwardly (away from the base). The flanges 35a, 35b have a generally right-angled triangular section, with an inclined face 36a, 36b being opposite to and generally parallel to the upper faces 31a, 31 b of the flanges 30a, 30b.

The flanges 30a, 30b terminate with a longitudinal lug 32a, 32b which extend generally parallel to the base 15 and themselves terminate with an inclined face 33a, 33b.

In Figure 3 a linear cutting charge liner 50 is shown. The liner is generally V-shape with a curved apex 51 and two longitudinal sides 52, 53. In this embodiment the liner is formed from copper.

Figures 4 to 6 show a completed charge I, with the liner 50 fitted into the body 10.

The free ends of the inclined sides 52, 53 fit into respective channels 40a, 40b, being received between the inclined faces 31a, 31b, 36b, 36b (which are correspondingly inclined). Explosive material (not shown) can be loaded behind the liner into the cavity 60 above.

The liner shown in Figures 4 to 6 is adapted for terrestrial use. A lid and end caps (not shown) may be fitted to the body.

In Figures 7 and 8 an alternative liner 70 is shown. The liner 70 is elongate with a hollow, generally box section. In this embodiment the edges 71, 72, 73, 74 of the section are curved. In some embodiments the liner 70 is formed as a pre-sealed unit, making such embodiments particularly well suited for underwater use.

Figures 9 and 10 show the liner 70 fitted into the body 10.

The liner 70 is received so that two opposing edges 71, 73 fit against the lugs' terminal surfaces 33a, 33b to that it is held in place.

Figure 11 shows the body 10 fitted with a support 80. The support includes a foot 81 which rests on the body base 15, and a V-shape holder 82. The liner edge 74 is received down into the holder 82 to retain the liner in position.

Explosive material (not shown) can be loaded behind the liner into the cavity 60.

In this form the body 10 can be sealed by adding end caps and a lid and/or the liner 70 can be formed as a pre-sealed unit so that the charge is adapted for underwater use.

Figure 12 shows a linear cutting charge kit generally indicated 101. The kit 101 comprises an elongate body 110, a liner 170 and a liner 150.

A section of the body 110 is shown in Figure 13. The body 110 is very similar to the body 10 shown in Figure 1 and comprises a generally U-section channel, formed as a one-piece extrusion in this embodiment. In this embodiment the open top of the channel is closed by a lid/roof 190.

Sections of the liners 170 and 150 are shown in Figures 14 and 15 respectively.

The liner 170 is an elongate, hollow-section, tube which in this embodiment is pre-sealed, being closed at each end by end plate 175, 176. The liner 170 rests on a support 180.

The liner 150 is a generally chevron-shape linear cutting charge liner.

Figures 16 and 17 show respectively the liner 170 and the liner 150 fitted into the body 110.

Figure 18 shows both liners 170, 150 fitted into the body, nested, which could be useful for transport and/or storage of the kit.

Figures 19 to 23 show a charge 201 including an improved means of supporting a generally tubular pre-sealed liner.

The charge body 210 is very similar to the bodies 10, 110 shown in Figures I to 18. The liner 250 is adapted to fit into the body 210.

The generally square section liner 270 includes end plates 275, 276 which again seal the liner. The plate 275, 276 include plate extension sections which form a generally rectangular lower half of the plate.

In addition, the end plates 275, 276 fit into the body and plug the liner void in the body which is also shaped to incorporate the support (180). This allows the liner 270 to be correctly supported, aligned and prevented from moving vertically and becoming mis-aligned.

Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSI. A dual purpose user-fillable linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal cavity for receiving a liner and explosive material, in which the cavity can interchangeably be fitted with either a liner for terrestrial use or a liner for underwater use.
2. A charge as claimed in claim I, in which the cavity is provided with retention means for retaining either a terrestrial use liner or an underwater use liner.
3. A charge as claimed in claim I or claim 2, in which the retaining means comprises an elongate channel.
4. A charge as claimed in claim 3, in which the channel is defined by a pair of spaced flanges.
5. A charge as claimed in claim 4, in which the flanges are inclined to the body sidewall.
6. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the liner for terrestrial use is a generally chevron-shape linear cutting charge liner.
7. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the liner for underwater use is a sealable box-sectioned liner. I5
8. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is a longitudinal generally U-section of material.
9. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body can be cut to a required length.
10. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which an end cap or plug for closing an end of the body is provided.
II. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which end caps or plugs for closing both ends of the body are provided.
12. A charge as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, in which the end caps or plugs seal the end/s.
13. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is formed from metal.
14. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is formed from aluminium.
15. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is formed as a gully-like channel with generally parallel sidewalls defining a longitudinal opening.
16. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which a longitudinal cover is provided.
17. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is sealable. 5
18. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which, the ends of the body are welded closed.
19. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in combination with a terrestrial or underwater liner.
20. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the liner is formed from copper.
21. A charge as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20, in which the liner is pre-fitted into the body.
22. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the liner is a pre-sealed generally tubular liner.
23. A charge as claims in claim 22, in which the cross-section of the liner is generally: round; square; square with rounded corners; or rhomboid.
24. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is formed as a single piece.
25. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is a generally U-section channel.
26. A charge as claimed in claim 25, further comprising a lid/roof.
27. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body further comprising end caps.
28. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body is an extrusion.
29. An explosive charge comprising a longitudinal U-section of material having features that allow a generally chevron-shaped linear cutting charge liner or a sealed box-section liner to be interchangeably fitted.
30. A user-fillable linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal cavity for receiving a liner and explosive material, in which the cavity can interchangeably retain a sealable hollow section liner or a V-section liner.
31. A charge as claimed in claim 30, in which the charge is adapted for use underwater.
32. A linear cutting charge comprising an elongate body having a longitudinal channel for receiving explosive material, and comprising a liner which is received in the channel, in which the liner is a pre-sealed generally tubular liner.
33. A charge as claims in claim 32, in which the cross-section of the liner is generally: round; square; square with rounded corners; or rhomboid.
34. A charge as claimed in claim 32 or claim 33, in which the body is formed as a single piece.
35. A charge as claimed in any of claims 32 to 34, in which the ends of the liner are pre-sealed with end plates.
36. A charge as claimed in claim 35, in which the end plates comprise a support portion for supporting and/or locating the liner.
37. A charge as claimed in any of claims 32 to 34, in which the body is a generally U-section channel.
38. A charge as claimed in claim 35, further comprising a lid/roof.
39. A charge as claimed in any of claims 32 to 36, in which the body further comprising end caps.
40. A charge substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying drawings.
41. A charge as claimed in any preceding claim and filled with explosive material. 5
42. A liner for a linear cutting charge comprising a tubular body sealed at both ends by end plates.
43. A liner as claimed in claim 42, in which the end plates comprise support means for supporting and/or locating the liner in use.
44. A liner substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying drawings.
45. A linear cutting charge kit comprising a body, a liner for terrestrial use and/or a liner for underwater use.