Analysis of Structural State of 60/40 Brass Cartridge Case (BCC) after Being Exposed to High Pressure and Temperature of Firing

Abstract

This research presents an experimental and analytical study of the structural state of the 60/40 brass cartridge case, (BCC) after being fired. The oral section of the BCC has the function of confining the gases of firing by expanding against the chamber and sealing the gases. Firing conditions, namely, high pressure and temperature, 3000 bar and 2727°C, respectively, affect performance properties of the (BCC). These are confining and crack strengths. Experimental study was done on the oral section to address these effects on the structural and mechanical properties of this brass. This alloy is a 60% copper (Cu) and 40% zinc (Zn) alloy and has a two-phase structure, alpha, (α) and beta, (β). Using “before and after” comparison approach; performance properties were tested in cartridge cases prepared before and after firing. These properties are hardness, tensile strength, micro-structural and chemical composition. Comparing the tests’ results, after firing demonstrated considerable degrading in performance properties, micro-structural disorder and a remarkable deficiency in the zinc element in the brass structure. This deficiency affects the percentage of beta phase in the alloy which governs the strength of the brass. According to the required properties before firing, it was found that after firing, the brass cartridge case is not qualified for reloading.