SBIR-STTR Award

The key potential advantages of the bulk loaded liquid propellant gun (BLPG), relative to the regenerative liquid propellant gun (RLPG), currently under development, include simplicity, reliability, weight, size and performance. The single and limiting disadvantage of the BLPG concept has been lack of assured combustion control which, on occasion, has resulted in unacceptable damage levels in the gun. It has been observed in electrically ignited BLPG firings that extremely precise ignition timing is possible and that associated initial pressure rise rates are highly reproducible. It is the objective of the proposed has Phase I Program to investigate the application of precision multipoint electrical ignition as a means of controlling the BLPG combustion process.

The Phase II experimental and analysis program is aimed at fulfilling the following specific objectives: * Evaluation of Multipoint Ignition (MPI) concept ability to partition Bulk Loaded Liquid Propellant Gun (BLPG) combustion into cells capable of influencing the combustion process. * Experimentally determine feasibility of detecting onset of faulty BLPG combustion and ability to correct these anomalies. * Evaluate the effect on BLPG interior ballistic performance of a T-breech configuration and its potential utility as a mechanism for velocity control. * Determine the effectiveness of programmed MPI as a means of increasing BLPG performance. * Develop an MPI data base, in convenient format, for analysis within the program and by the Army Research Laboratory. * Employ MPI test equipment diagnostic capability to develop a better general understanding of the BLPG combustion process.