Study for Development of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Earth-Covered Ammunition Storage Magazines

摘要

A corrosion resistant fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), earth-covered, ammunition storage magazine was developed to provide an alternative to the steel and concrete materials presently used. Conceptual designs were investigated, materials were selected, and a final design was developed in sufficient detail for construction of a prototype structure. Methods for manufacture, shipping, and field erection were also established along with comparative construction cost data. Adequacy of the developed FRP magazine design was determined by finite element analyses. Soil load distribution equations were derived and the MRI STARDYNE computer code was extensively employed with increasingly detailed structural models of the FRP magazine. An FRP earth-covered, ammunition storage magazine is shown to be feasible and highly competitive with present construction materials. Construction of a prototype structure is recommended. (Author)