Process for the Production of a Jacketed Penetrator

Abstract

The invention is directed to a process for the production of a jacketed penetrator having a tungsten, tungsten alloy or depleted uranium core and a metallic jacket, which process comprises placing the core inside the jacket and explosively welding the jacket on the core.

1 . Process for the production of a jacketed penetrator having a tungsten, tungsten alloy or depleted uranium core and a metallic jacket, which process comprises placing the core inside the jacket and explosively welding the jacket on the core. 
     
     
         2 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the penetrator has a length of at least 20 cm. 
     
     
         3 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the core of the penetrator has an L/D ratio of at least 30. 
     
     
         4 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the welding step is followed by a heat treatment, preferably at a temperature of between 250 and 750° C. for a period of time not less than 1 hour. 
     
     
         5 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the annular area between the jacket and the core is placed under vacuum prior to the welding. 
     
     
         6 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the explosive welding is done at a temperature below 50° C. 
     
     
         7 . Process according to  claim 1 , wherein the core is maintained inside the jacket using a centering pin. 
     
     
         8 . Jacketed penetrator obtainable by the process of  claim 1 .