Modifying Small Caliber Interior Ballistics by Employing a Flash Tube

Abstract

Small caliber interior ballistic performance can be altered in countless ways. Primer composition, propellant composition and quantity, as well as the interaction between the two play a critical role in determining a cartridge’s performance. This study will focus on the interaction between the primer products and the ignition of the propellant of a 7.62- mm cartridge. To accomplish this a flash tube will be employed to alter the ignition characteristics of the propellant. By employing a flash tube the primer products will be directed into the case at a more forward location in the propellant bed thus altering the ignition and subsequent burning characterization of the propellant. Various length and diameter flash tube configurations will be explored to characterize how the ignition of the propellant influences the interior ballistics of the cartridge.