Assessment of the Run to Detonation in Composition B from M732 Fuze Booster Assembly.

摘要

We report on laboratory tests to assess the build-up to detonation in the Composition B filling of the 105 mm shell from the booster assembly of a M732 short intrusion fuze. These tests were undertaken because the M732 fuze to replace some types of long fuzes in Australia production 105 mm HOW HE MI shell. Conclusions from this limited investigation are: (a) the delay in the build-up to detonation is small but significant; (b) an increased gap of 2 mm caused by the addition of extra glazed board packing between the M732 booster and the Composition B filling substantially increases the build-up delay to a point where it may approach the detonation failure threshold; and (c) consideration should be given to a more detailed investigation to assess the effect of likely combinations of glazed boards, felt pad and air gaps on the build-up process.