Journal of the Royal Naval Scientific Service. Volume 29, Number 6 ...

P. and fi.E. Inchterj: McLanuclian 277
FIG. 2. West Battery showing general layout of
cranes and proof stands. Naval 4-5 Mk. 8 gun is
shown in the background.
(b) Functional Proof (Land and Naval Service)
(1) Includes complete Ordnance and Ordnance
components, i.e. barrels, breech
rings, breech blocks, buffer lugs, etc., are
proved by firing before issue to the Services.
(2) Also ammunition components, i.e.
primers, tubes, cartridge cases, proof
shot etc., which are manufactured in
Lots and a sample from each lot is
proved by firing, before being put into
service use.
(c) Trials
These form an ever growing proportion of
the firings at Inchterf. Trials cover such subjects
as:
(1) Determination of charge weights of new
propellants to match the performance
of new and existing charge designs.
(2) Ignition efficiency.
(3) Investigation of wear and its effect on
muzzle velooity and chamber pressures.
(4) Methods of Pressure Measurements.
(5) Performance of propellants at various
temperatures (" Temperature Correction
Firings ").
(6) Determination of Ballistic Co-efficient of
Projectiles.
(7) Flash, smoke and debris observations.
Capacity and Limitations
(a) The current rate of firing is approximately
15,000 rounds per year. Basic facilities exist to
undertake up to three times this rate of firing,
given appropriate staff. Capacity, however, cannot
be fully expressed in terms of rounds fired.
Ballistic firings and trials may involve considerable
preparation, analysis and reporting
work, compared with proof of ordnance and
ammunition components.
FIG. 3. The Sand Bay with steel tunnel to
protect sides of bay from shot break-up.
(b) The current proportions of firings in
terms of rounds fired is as follows:
Proof of Ordnance and Components - 50%
Proof of Propellant - - - 20%
Trial and Standardisation Firings - 30%
FIG. 4. Stick propellant being cut to suitable
length for make-up of charges.
FIG. 5. Making and marking charge bags in the
Tailor's Shop.