Methodology for service life determination of munition during expeditionary missions

For a more in-depth understanding of the aging processes of munitions in expeditionary operations, research is performed with respect to the influence of transport, storage and use on the safety of ammunition. Within this programme the influences of parameters like temperature, humidity, vibrations, shock and combinations of these conditions which most likely affect the aging or stability of ammunition and pyrotechnic materials, are investigated experimentally. In addition, the experimental results will be used as input for simulations. The results of this programme will allow TNO Defence, Security and Safety to advise the Dutch Armed Forces on the technical issues related to the safe use of ammunition in expeditionary operations. With ongoing expeditionary operations and known extreme conditions, it is a worthwhile exercise to compare realistic loadings (either temperature, humidity, vibrations or shock) with the test conditions of the original Type Classification programmes, since it is very likely that the ammunition is subjected to conditions exceeding those for which the ammunition has originally been tested/classified. In the first phase of the programme, relevant health monitoring parameters have been identified, some of which are of essential importance for the health monitoring of ammunition during expeditionary operations. Models will be used or developed which describe the influence of these parameters on the aging of munition that is subjected to these extreme conditions. For collecting all relevant information regarding the operational stress on ammunition, a number of 40 sensors (temperature, humidity and vibration) have been placed on the different vehicles in Afghanistan. These sensors will give valuable information regarding the real stress during the Expeditionary Operations. The programme will result in architecture for a decision sheet for safe use of munition by the Dutch Armed Forces during expeditionary operations.