Identification of the Properties of Gum Arabic Used as a Binder in 7.62- mm Ammunition Primers

摘要

A chronic sporadic problem with 7.62-mm ammunition has been hangfires. The primer, FA-956, used in the cartridge was identified as a potential source of the problem. Specifically, gum arabic, used in the binder mix is believed to be the cause because of the variable qualities of this natural product obtained from the trees of the Acacia Senegal. In order for the primer to give consistent results, all the products used in its manufacture must be identified and controlled before and during manufacture. As a natural product, depending on where the gum arabic is obtained, the qualities and characteristics are too variable to control the product and how it behaves in the primer. Not enough characteristics are known about gum arabic to test for consistency before using in the primer. Changing vendors also causes the binder to change the results. This project was undertaken in order to identify the unique properties of the natural product and thereby allow for consistent mixing or to identify those binder characteristics that will be used to replace the binder with a synthetic material.