Thin walled, two component cartridge casing

Abstract

A cartridge or ammunition casing is made of two components, one forming the outer casing sleeve and head end and the other comprising a plug seated within the head end to protect the outer casing material from propellant gases. The outer cylindrical sidewall and end panel of the casing may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, steel, pre-coated carbon steel, brass or brass-type alloys, aluminum, hardened aluminum alloys, and suitable polymeric plastic material such as nylon derivatives and VECTRA™. The inner plug may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, brass, steel, stainless steel, and suitable polymeric materials.

Description

[0001] This invention pertains to the field of ordnance. More particularly, it describes a cartridge casing and process for manufacturing the same which is directed towards cartridge casings typically used in small and artillery caliber ammunition.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Cartridge casings used in small caliber to artillery caliber weapons provide the function of containing the other major components of the cartridge, including propellant, projectile or bullet and primer. In addition to being a container, the casing must expand slightly and act as a seal to prevent gases, generated by the propellant, from leaking from the forward or mouth end of the casing, along the sidewall of the casing, and through the breach or bolt face at the rear of the casing. The head end of the casing must also absorb the striking force of the firing pin without deforming excessively.

[0003] In the case of rimless cartridges, a portion of the head end typically will extend beyond the support of the c...

Images