Rotating Band Pressures and Engraving Forces in 155mm Artillery Shells

Abstract

The forces retarding the motion of 155mm artillery shells during quasi-static engraving of the rotating band were investigated both experimentally and analytically. The analytic method was based on a determination of the pressures existing between the projectile and the gun tube and the use of this information in a frictional model of the process. The retardation forces predicted in this manner are shown to be in good agreement with the hydrostatic pressures required to engrave the projectile in quasi-static push tests. This model leads to some interesting conclusions regarding alteration of engraving forces. In particular, the model suggests that, for shells similar to those used in this study, the rotating band pressure is more dependent upon the form and mechanical properties of the band than upon the mechanical stiffness of the projectile.