DUD Investigation of M69 Electric Detonator

During an investigation on the 105Mm M456A1 HEAT Cartridge, it was found that the M509A1 Fuze containing the M48 Detonator was not Detonator Safe when initiated in the unarmed position. Since the M48 Detonator was found to be the primary source of the problem the smaller M69 Detonator was selected to replace it. Initial Laboratory and ballistic testing with the M69 Detonator resulted in an abnormally high dud rate. An intensive investigation of the problem revealed an inherent deficiency in the M69 Detonator Technical Data Package which allowed inadequate consolidation of the Lead Azide Charge. This results in a shift of the Lead Azide Charge during high g ballistic firing causing a separation at the Carbon Bridge Interface and subsequent non- initiation upon electrical pulsing of the Carbon Bridge. Resolution of the problem required a number of revisions to the TDP, including an increase in the Lead Azide Charge thereby increasing the consolidation pressure to the proper level.