Identification of Need and Specifications

 

The sponsor specifically asked that the Dynamic Tensile experiment be set up so it could be conducted on a pre-existing table currently used for a Taylor Test. A gun muzzle and lasers are already attached to the table. In addition, a camera, light and lens are configured. The sponsor would prefer to not have to adjust the camera, the lens, or the lasers. For this experiment, tooling to perform the extrusion would need to be designed, as well as a sabot for the projectile, and a soft catch for the projectile after is has been extruded. The following identifies the need of each component:

 

A.   Extrusion Block

i.    Be modeled after Dr. Gray’s design

ii.   Extrude a spherical specimen traveling at approximately 400 m/s

iii.  Be able to withstand multiple tests

iv.  Bolt holes should match the geometry of pre-existing holes on the table in the gun bay

v.   Be able to be opened in case part of the projectile is lodged in the extrusion channel

 

The sponsor has also suggested a coating to prevent projectiles from being lodged in the extrusion channel or fusing with the metal in the extrusion block.

 

B.   Sabot

i.    Be lightweight

ii.   Be made of polypropelex so Eglin’s machine shop can duplicate the design

iii.  Tear away from projectile after it has fired and before it enters the extrusion channel

iv.   Make a gas seal in between the projectile and the barrel of the muzzle

v.    Cradle the projectile as it is being loaded into the muzzle

vi.   Optimize the velocity of the projectile

 

C.   Soft Catch Mechanism

i.    Slow extruded projectile to a complete stop

ii.   Preserve the shape of extruded projectile

iii.  Ensure the projectile can be retrieved easily after the test is complete

iv.   Ensure the safety of those conducting the experiment from the projectile

 

Specifications