Internal ballistics-based design and structural analysis of a 30×165 mm cannon barrel

Abstract

This paper deals with the analysis and optimization of parameters influencing the internal ballistics and barrel design of the 30×165 mm automatic cannon. Internal ballistic calculations were performed using a mathematical model based on the Drozdov method, with the aim of determining the influence of various parameters on projectile muzzle velocity and maximum powder gas pressure inside the barrel. The analysis was first carried out using reference internal ballistic parameters, after which selected parameters were varied within a limited range in order to examine their influence on system performance. By individual and combined variation of the parameters, their mutual dependence and impact on the operating characteristics of the weapon system were determined. The primary objective was to obtain higher projectile muzzle velocity while maintaining the maximum pressure within allowable limits. Based on the obtained optimal parameters, the barrel geometry was calculated. In the final stage of the research, structural verification of the designed barrel was performed using the finite element method in Simcenter Femap. The barrel model was subjected to loading conditions corresponding to the calculated internal ballistic forces, enabling analysis of stress distribution, deformation, and structural integrity under operating conditions.