Powder Gymnasticator

The powder gymnasticator provides for the evaluation of large caliber experimental gun mounts and recoil mechanisms by subjecting the recoil mechanisms to the same impulse as the full-scale firing of the weapon. This is achieved by modifying the muzzle area of the gun tube to accept a 75mm breech assembly and chamber. The chamber is loaded with propellant and fired, simulating the recoil forces associated with a full-up live firing. This method is extremely cost effective; projectiles, and full-scale propellant charges are not needed. Additional environmental savings are realized through reduced noise levels. The powder gymnasticator can accept forces up to 2.5 million pounds. Instrumentation includes pressure vs. time, rod-pull gages, hydraulic pressure, stress/strain, and metal parts integrity.