RARE Gas Gun: A Novel High-Efficiency System for Taylor Impact Testing with Innovative Breech Mechanism

The RARE (Rapid Actuation Response Element) gas gun is an innovative, single-stage gas gun designed to evaluate the response of impulsively loaded materials using Taylor Impact testing. A novel breech mechanism was developed to combine the advantages of two existing gas gun designs—the dual-diaphragm and wrap-around breech systems—while mitigating their respective drawbacks. This gun system, capable of operating at pressures up to 5000 PSI and achieving projected velocities of up to 1 km/s, incorporates a unique breech mechanism featuring a reusable magnesium trigger cylinder. This cylinder effectively seals the wrap-around ports in the barrel and is actuated axially by firing gas, facilitating rapid and efficient operation. The design is optimized for high efficiency, enabling multiple shots to be conducted within a single day. Experimental testing was performed to assess the system's efficiency and its performance in generating projectile velocities ranging from 170 to 350 m/s. The RARE gas gun represents a significant advancement in impulsive loading technology, offering a highly efficient and reliable system for Taylor Impact testing with its innovative breech mechanism and impressive operational capabilities.