ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE (ESD) TESTS

ESD Test ESD testing is used to determine the response of an explosive when subjected to various levels of electrostatic discharge energy. Electrostatic energy stored in a charged capacitor is discharged to the test sample. The sample to be tested is placed on a special holder that assures the electrostatic discharge will pass through the sample. A capacitor is charged with a known volt potential (usually 5000 volts). The discharge needle is lowered until a spark is drawn through the sample. The approaching needle method is most commonly used because it best models the safety issues involved with ESD sensitivity. An infrared analyzer is normally used to determine sample initiation.

Reference: Picatinny Arsenal. Navy-Indian Head MD, all propellant programs, Allegheny Ballistics Laboratory

Explosives ESD Test Device Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a significant factor in both the premature failure of electronic equipment and the ignition of explosive devices. ESD has become a common cause of microelectronic circuit failure, with many devices being sensitive to less than 30 Volts. Since it is not always possible to control the environment where electronic or explosive devices are used, the burden of product reliability falls upon the manufacturer to design and build equipment that will reduce its susceptibility to ESD.

FRICTION TESTS
The ABL and BAM Friction Tests are the two primary tests of this kind. Both methods are UN listed, however, the ABL Friction Test has been calibrated into engineering units, which enables analytical comparison of results. The BAM test is good for relative comparisons of material reactivity only. We are able to test solid or liquid explosives at various velocities and at various pressures. We are able to test materials for friction sensitivity at ambient, cold or heated conditions. We also can test for sensitivity to friction at different humidities. Friction Test (ABL) In the ABL Friction Test, the sample is placed on the anvil, and a known force is applied hydraulically through a stationary wheel. A pendulum or motor drive is used to propel the sliding anvil at any of several standard velocities perpendicular to the force vector. Sample initiation is detected by visual means (spark or flame).

Reference: The Transport of Dangerous Goods: Tests and Criteria, second edition, United Nations Test Method 3 (b) (iii) page 108.

Friction Test (BAM) The sample is placed on a rough ceramic plate and a force is loaded on the sample through a stationary ceramic pin, in contact with the plate. The plate is motor driven through a complete cycle pass beneath the pin. The test sample is subjected to the friction created by the rubbing of the pin against the plate. This method allows for ambient temperature tests of powders and pastes. Reference: The Transport of Dangerous Goods: Tests and Criteria, second edition, United Nations Test Method 3 (b) (I) page 101.

BAM Friction Test Device

Small-scale safety testing of explosives, propellants and other energetic materials, is done to determine their sensitivity to various stimuli including friction, static spark, and impact. Testing is done to discover potential handling problems for either newly synthesized materials of unknown behavior, or materials that have been stored for long periods of time. Friction of explosives between hard surfaces is one of the most frequent causes of accidental explosions. Determination of friction sensitivity is a necessary part of characterization of explosives. The BAM" Small-Scale Friction Test, and the methods used to determine the friction sensitivity pertinent to handling energetic materials are routinely performed at the UTEC laboratory facility for specific clients and under standard as well as user-defined testing conditions and protocol.

IMPACT TESTS
Impact tests are used to determine the response of an explosive when it is impacted by a moving mass. This test simulates impact conditions in processing operations, wherein an explosive is subjected to a collision between moving components of the processing equipment, by normal handling operations, or by the inadvertent dropping of tools or equipment. Two different impact tests are routinely performed. The Modified Bureau of Mines Test is used to obtain data in engineering units. The Bureau of Explosives Test is performed in order determine a DOT classification for the material tested (See DOT Classification.) Large scale impact tests can also be conducted. SMS is able to test samples at various thicknesses (both solids and liquids) and at ambient, hot or cold temperatures or at specified humidities. Impact Test (Modified Bureau of Mines) The Modified Bureau of Mines Test uses a 2-kg drop weight. The sample is placed on a fixed anvil. A hammer of known contact area is positioned above the sample and the weight is raised to a predetermined height and dropped. Normally, sample initiation is detected by audible or visual means or by infrared analysis of selected decomposition products. This is the preferred test apparatus and method for impact testing because the results are obtainable in engineering units, which enable analytical comparison and easy ranking of materials for sensitivity. Reference: Allegheny Ballistics Laboratory and the Bureau of Mines.

BOE Impact Test Apparatus The DOT and DoD use the Bureau of Explosives (BOE) impact machine to determine whether a material is too sensitive for transport by conducting a 10-trial screen test. This test is presented as a means used to obtain initial impact data for a manufacturing classification. However, a more thorough test using additional drop heights may be performed as needed in order to conduct a hazards analysis.