THE EXPLOSIVE COMPONENT WATER GAP TEST

In the safety assessment of munitions, the explosives used must be identified. In addition to national legislation and regulatory requirements, the safety and suitability of the explosives for use by military services is assessed according to STANAG 4170 before selection and incorporation into the munition. Explosive components used in fuzing systems normally contain explosives which are more sensitive than main charge explosives. Small changes of loading conditions involving e.g. pressure-density and/or confinement can radically alter their performance and characteristics, which can affect their safety. Therefore it is essential that these effects are thoroughly assessed during development and, if necessary, in production. The Explosive Component Water Gap Test (ECWGT) has been developed to assist in this assessment. It is described and the associated documents listed. It is intended to extend the test method to cover cord- and tube-shaped explosive components as well as ignition transfer elements. 399 Report Documentation Page Form ApprovedOMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for the collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information