Physical Property Measurements for Symmetric Projectiles

Author(s):

William P. Aubry, Matthew D. Krassenstein II, Christopher Mermagen, and Paul Weinacht

Abstract:

Projectile physical properties such as mass, center-of-gravity location, and axial and transverse moments of inertia are required to perform flight analyses and experimental aerodynamic data reduction. This report documents the theory and processes used at the experimental facilities within the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory’s Flight Sciences Branch to obtain measurements of the “as-manufactured” physical properties of projectiles. Because of the wide range of sizes and weights of small-caliber through large-caliber projectiles, different processes and measurement machines are used depending on projectile size. Details of the various measurement processes and procedures are provided here to guide users to obtain consistent and accurate projectile physical property measurements.