Gun Recoil System Performance Measurement and Prediction

Abstract

The performance of high-energy gun recoil absorbers, usually referred to as gun buffers, for use in military fighting vehicles is investigated. A test facility built to simulate gun reaction loads imposed on recoil absorbers is described and a theoretical model to predict their performance is derived. This model, which predicts the recoil velocity and the pressure variation within a buffer, allows the effects of variation in orifice area, recoil mass and energy to be investigated, together with mechanical compliance, buffer oil density, compressibility and aeration. Theoretical predictions agree closely with data obtained from the test facility and from field trials.