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Two-Dimensional Model for Current and Heat Transport in Solid-Armature Railguns

Authors: John D. Powell; David J. Walbert; Alexander E. Zielinski; ARMY RESEARCH LAB ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND MD
Abstract:
A numerical model is developed for solving the equations which predict current and heat transport in a solid-armature railgun. The model is two dimensional and fully time dependent. Some preliminary calculations are carried out for a 'U-shaped' armature similar to that currently under investigation in the ARDEC small and cannon-caliber railgun programs. The most extensive calculations are for a situation in which the projectile is started at rest and accelerated to about 500 m/s in a time of about I ms. Results of the calculations can be used to infer, for example, where melting in the armature is most likely to occur and where the electromagnetic are largest. For comparison, calculations are also presented for a situation in which the projectile is held fixed. Some discussion of future efforts is given, with particular emphasis on describing how the model might be used to guide the design of armatures, or provide input for other types of calculations relating to electromagnetic guns.

Limitations: APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
Description: Final rept. Oct 91-Sep 92
Pages: 34
Report Date: FEB 93
Report Number: A410262
Keywords relating to this report:
*ELECTROMAGNETIC GUNS
ARMATURES
COMPARISON
CURRENTS
ELECTRODYNAMICS
ELECTROMAGNETISM
EQUATIONS
GUNS
HEAT
INPUT
MELTING
MODELS
PROJECTILES
REST
SOLIDS
TIME
TRANSPORT
TWO DIMENSIONAL
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