Transportability Testing of the Marine Corps Light Weight Prime Mover (LWPM) TP-94-01 Transportability Testing Procedures

摘要

The U.S. Army Defense Ammunition Center (DAC), Validation Engineering Division (SJMAC-DEV), was tasked by the Program Manager Motor Transport, Marine Corps Systems Command, to conduct transportability testing on the Light Weight Prime Mover (LWPM) manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The testing was conducted in accordance with TP-94-01, Revision 2, June 2004 'Transportability Testing Procedures.' The objective of the testing was to evaluate the Light Weight Prime Mover (LWPM) when transportability tested in accordance with TP-94-01, Revision 2, June 2004. The following observations resulted from the testing of LWPM: 1. The minimal distance between the outside of the pallet and the interior wall of the vehicle made it difficult to engage the strap hooks in the tie-downs. 2. Ratcheting of the straps was difficult due to the ratchet handles being located between the interior wall of the vehicle and the pallets. 3. There may not be adequate storage space on the vehicle for the straps. 4. Due to the limited space between the tie-down rings, a special pallet has to be built to hold the 155MM propelling charges. 5. The area of the deck of the vehicle directly behind the passenger side could potentially be used for storage and securement bar along the wall were added in this area. 6. Prior to the start of testing, both hinges on the tailgate failed. The damaged aluminum hinges were replaced with steel hinges. 7. Removal of the pallets in the forward area of the cargo bed difficult. Straps had to be wrapped around the pallets and then the pallets had to be slid to the rear of the bed to facilitate their removal by forklift. 8. No excessive movement or damage occurred to the payload, vehicle or tie-down rings as a result of testing. Throughout testing, tie-down rings on the LWPM performed adequately. No damage occurred to the tie-down rings or anchors. The LWPM, as currently designed, is adequate for the transport of ammunition.