Design and Assembly of Copper Confined Circular Arc Experiments

Experiments using simple charge geometry, such as cylinders and slabs, are typically used for detonation model calibration. To provide assurance that these models can accurately predict performance in other geometries, we developed a series of tests based on the circular arc geometry. These arc experiments may be constructed without confinement to validate detonation model timing predictions, or with metal confinement to validate both timing and metal push characteristics of the explosive. Here, we describe the design details of a set of confined arc experiments including selection of the explosive charge dimensions, confiner thickness, and positioning of the PDV probes and time of arrival wires. In addition, we provide details on the assembly and fielding of these tests. Results from a confined arc test utilizing PBX 9502 (95% TATB and 5% Kel-F 800 or FK-800) are provided and discussed.