MIL-C-46239C
loaded cartridges are selected for test, remove and discard all powder charges from the test cartridge by
sectioning the cartridge case around the periphery, ½ inch maximum above the base. Drop test at 15 inches
(adjusted) using a steel ball 1½-inch in diameter, weighing 7.94 ± 0.02 ounces, in a primer sensitivity machine
with a cartridge holder approved by the acquiring agency. The height of 15 inches shall be adjusted taking
into consideration the actual weight of the ball so that the energy level specified in 3.6.1 is achieved. Failure
of the sample to comply with 3.6.1 shall be cause for rejection of the sample or the lot.
4.7.8.2 Ballistics.
4.7.8.2.1 First article. Twenty-one cartridges of the first article sample shall be grouped and temperature
conditioned as described in table III and 4.8. Following removal from the conditioning chamber, the cartridge
shall be tested as required by 3.6.2.2. Failure of any cartridge to comply with 3.6.2.2 shall be cause for sample
rejection.
4.7.8.2.2 Production lot acceptance. Twenty-one assembled cartridges from each production lot shall
be divided into three equal groups, temperature conditioned, and fired in accordance with 3.6.2.2. Failure of
any cartridge to comply with 3.6.2.2 shall be cause for rejection of the lot. In addition to the sample of
cartridges for the above test, 10 additional cartridges shall be furnished from each production lot for
investigative purposes.
4.7.8.2.2.1 Sealant application. Five cartridges from each production lot shall be selected for this test.
The cartridge shall be disassembled in such a manner that determination can be made that the sealant has been
applied for the full length of the joining surfaces at the junction of the cartridge head and case sidewall and
that the propellant cavity is free of sealant. Failure of any cartridge to comply with the drawing requirements
shall be cause for rejection of the lot of cartridges.
4.7.8.3 Retest. There shall be no retests.
4.7.8.3.1 Test failure. If a test failure is attributable to an assignable cause, excluding the test cartridge,
the original test results shall be discarded and that test reconducted.
4.8 Temperature conditioning. The conditioning chamber shall be preconditioned to the specified
temperature. Once the temperature inside the chamber has stabilized, the samples shall be placed inside and
maintained at the specified temperature for 4 hours minimum, 24 hours maximum.
4.8.1 Reconditioning. The sample must be tested within five minutes after removal from the
conditioning chamber. If this time is exceeded, the cartridge shall be reconditioned in accordance with 4.8.
4.9 Inspection of packaging. The sampling and inspection of the preservation, packing, and container
marking shall be in accordance with the requirements of section 5.
5. PACKAGING
5.1 Packing and marking. Packing and marking shall be Level A or B, as specified by the contracting
activity (see 6.2). Level A shall be in accordance with Drawings 9258146 and 9258147. Level B shall be in
accordance with Drawings 9258146 and 9258148.
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