Investigation of Reliance on Flash Tube Lacquer Seals for Proper Performance in Medium-Caliber Ammunition such as GAU-8/A and LW30

摘要

This investigation studied the dynamic rupture pressures of the lacquer seal on the flash tube found in GAU-8/A and LW30 medium-caliber ammunition. The maximum pressure inside the flash tube was found to be near 42 MPa. At this pressure, significant gas generation would be achieved before the flash tube vented into the main propellant bed. Hot gas/particle flow at these pressures is expected to play a significant role in ignition of the main propellant charge and rapid functioning of the round.