Simulation of the State of the M42/M46 Grenade during Press Loading.

摘要

This report is a contribution to an ongoing study of explosive incidents (blows) which occur during press loading of the M42/M46 grenade. One of the causal mechanisms posited for the blows is brittle fractured of the grenade body. The physical state of the grenade during final consolidation is of critical importance for this mechanism. A detailed simulation of the compression phase of final loading helps to verify the feasibility of this causal mechanism and to suggest means of minimizing a part of the rate of incidents. This report describes a continuous simulation of several, related phenomena which occur during final consolidation. These phenomena include: (a) compaction of the bulk HE, and (f) diffusion of heat within the grenade. A sample of simulation results is given in graphical form, with key variables displayed as functions of punch displacement and of time. Sensitivity of results to certain parameters is shown. Comparisons are made between some experimental measurements and results of the simulation. These comparisons demonstrate the validity of the simulation within the limits imposed by its scope. For the interested analyst, the implementing computer program is listed and explained. Keywords: Operations research; Industrial operations; Press loading; Explosive incidents; Energetic materials; Pressed composition A-5; Numerical methods.