Laboratory Study of Propelling Charge for 60mm Lightweight Mortar.

摘要

Renewed interest in the 60 mm lightweight mortar (LWM) resulted in the development of the XM720 cartridge. During development of the cartridge, questions arose relative to the effects of certain ammunition characteristics on the ballistics of the weapon. The ammunition characteristics considered most likely to affect ballistics were propellant weight, moisture, and the felted fiber increment container. Closed bomb studies were designed to determine if these characteristics affected ballistic results. It was concluded that the felted fiber increment container is hygroscopic and does not act as a barrier to moisture, which results in a significant change in ballistic characteristics of the weapon. Based on this laboratory study, a proving ground firing program is recommended.