
Address
(P)
Description
This facility will modernize and centralize the ARDEC propellant
pilot plant manufacturing operations and the propellant
characterization/testing laboratories. A major mission within ARDEC
is to serve as the executive authority for the AMC Lead Laboratory
for Energetic Materials Technology and as a national center of
expertise in the science and technology of energetic materials. A
part of this mission is to provide life cycle engineering and
technical support to Army segments in the manufacture, application
and field use of energetic materials and components of munitions
systems. The development of propellants and propulsion devices
employed by armor, artillery, air defense, infantry and combat
engineer systems is a very important aspect of this mission.
The HEPFF will enable improved execution of programs in exploratory
and advanced development, and evaluation of propellant
formulations, manufacturing processes, propellant charges, and
igniters. These functions provide the capability for direct
technical support to the PMs ( i.e., Mortars, Maneuver Systems,
FCS, Small Arms), who are responsible for over 80 percent of the
Army's Ammunition.
The HEPFF pilot plant is equipped with various mixers, extrusion
presses, roll mills, and propellant finishing equipment to produce
both solvent and solventless propellants, including composite
propellants based on energetic thermo-plastic elastomers and high
energy fillers. Characterization and testing capabilities include a
rheology laboratory for energetic materials, burning rate by closed
bomb and strand burner, calorimetry and thermal analysis
facilities, and physical properties measurement, as well as
subscale interior ballistic performance determination, and
energetic sensitivity testing (critical diameter, shock
initiation). The HEPFF will provide a comprehensive site for the
continuation of ARDEC's role in propellant development, and a focal
point for preserving and advancing the knowledge base necessary for
efficient and productive future propellant development.