Effects of slit plate design on mechanical properties of castable plastic bonded explosives

The effect of slit plate design on PBXs quality was systematically studied from the point of view voids and powder‐binder separation phenomenon. PBXN‐109 type explosive samples were prepared in accordance with MIL−E‐82886 and cast through slit plates of different geometry and perforation size. The other casting parameters such as casting time, temperature, pressure, valve opening and PBX amount kept constant to prevent uncertainties arising from these parameters. Density measurements, X‐ray inspection and tensile tests were carried out to evaluate the air removal and powder‐binder separation characteristic of slit plates. Density measurements did not provide a clear interpretation of the powder‐binder separation and deaeration abilities of slit plates. X‐ray inspections and tensile tests showed that the dimensions and design of slit plate perforations have impact on voids and powder‐binder separation in PBXs. The slit plate #E showed relatively poor performance in terms of stress property, attributed to the largest cross‐sectional area per perimeter length ratio of perforations, leading to decrease in air removal ability.