Theoretical Investigation of the Feasibility of a Two-Module Charge in a Dual-Chamber, 155-MM Howitzer.

摘要

This report documents a theoretical study commissioned by the Office of the Project Manager, Cannon Artillery Weapons Systems to investigate the feasibility of obtaining the ballistics required for the 155-MM howitzer using a zoned, modular-charge configuration with two distinct propellant increment types when coupled with a dual-chamber volume capability. Specifically, lumped-parameter, interior-ballistic calculations were carried out for modules employing an M31-type, slotted-stick propellant in the upper zones and M1 granular propellant in the lower zones, all packaged in combustible cases. Of the two chamber sizes, the larger was varied from 18800 to 26200 cm3 (1150 to 1600 in.3), and the smaller from 6600 to 13100 cm3 (400 to 800 in.3) The cannon length was increased with the chamber volume. Further constraints were applied regarding minimum and maximum peak pressures and the manner in which the charges would be used with the chambers. The calculations demonstrated that the upper-zone ballistics, velocities from 509 to 826 m/s (1670 to 2710 f/s), could be achieved using integral numbers of a single module for several of the large chamber sizes, depending on the tolerance allowed about the required velocities. Similarly, the lower-zone velocities from 280 to 354 m/s (920 to 1160 f/s) could be obtained with an integral number of a second increment type, but this solution was unsatisfactory in that a large number of small increments would be required. With the relaxation of one of the original, noncritical constraints, specifically, the requirement that ...etc.