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CONFID~NTIAL OP 1480
(FIRST REVISION)
j:i
- VT .FUZES I
FOR PROJECTILES
AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS . . ~ ... :
<
.I
VT FUZES
FOR PROJECTILES
AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS
15 MAY 1946
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NAVY DEPARTMENT
BUREAU OF ORDNANCE
WASHINGTON 25, D . C.
15 May 1946
CONFIDENTIAL
G. F. HussEY, Jr.,
Vice Admiral, U. 8. Navy,
Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance.
Acting.
This file is also searchable. Enter the phrase you want in search block. CONTENTS
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Page Page
Arming Range________________________ ___ 24 Chapter 9
Internal Design Features________________ 24
THEORY
Activating Time of Battery____________ 24
Introduction_ ___ _______ _____ - _- _- _- _- - -- 32
TABLE OF CONTENTS Condenser Charging Time___ __________ 24
Transmitter_____________ _____ _____ _____ _ 33
.l!fercury Switch Unshorting Time____ __ 24
Page Page - R~ed Switch Unshorting Time______ __ _ 24 Receiver_______ ______ __ __ __ _____ ______ __ 33
Chapter 1 Mk 58 Mods 0-4 __ ______ ____ __ __ ______ ~ __ 15 Ainplifier______________________ __ ____ ____ 34
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze Arming Time_ 25
INTRODUCTION Mk 59 Modo __ ___________________ _______ 16 .'t Faulty Construction________________ __ 25 ~~ve-S~pp_r~ssion-Feature Circuit ____ ______ 36
External Factors Affecting Arming Range_ 25 Frrmg Crrcmt____ ___ __ _________________ __ 37
Purpose__________ ___ _____ _____ _____ ___ __ 1
Chapter 5 Fuze Temperature____________________ 25
Definition_____ __ ______ _____ __ ___________ 1 Appendix A
Description____ ___ _____ _____ ________ _____ 1 VT FUZES FOR SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS Gun Effects __ ----------------------- 25
Operation _____ __ ___ _____________________ 1 Wave Effects on Arming Time_________ 25 SAFETY FEATURES, HANDLING, AND
Safety_ ______ ____ ____ ______ __ ___________ 1
Mk. 173 Mods. 0, 2, 4________ _____ _______ 17 Atmospheric Effects on Arming Time_ _ 25 PRECAUTIONS
Sensi ti vi ty _ _ _ ___________________________ 25
Remarks_ _____ ___ _____ _____ __ ___________ 1 Safety Features ____________ ~ ___ _ ________ _ 38
Chapter 6 Life ________ ~ __________ _____________ -.- __ 26
Energizer __ ___________________________ 38
Chapter 2 Refuzing______ __________________________ 26
OPERATIONAL USE Charging Resistor_ _____________________ 38
DESCRIPTION Precautions--------------------~--------- 26
Introduction ___ __ __ _____ -- -- -------- - ---- 20 Fuze-Cavity Liners ___________ .,. ___________ 26 Reed Switch__________________________ _ 38
Introduction ____ ___ _______ _______ _~ _ ___ _ _ 3 MercurySwitch _______________ _______ __ 38
Ant~a~cra~ft ______________ _; _____________ 20
Fuze Body_ _ ____ ________________________ 3 Auxiliary Detonating Fuze _____ __ _~_____ 38
Lmntatwns____ __________________ ______ 20
Transmitter-Receiver_ ____ ________________ 3 Chapter 8 Arming Range _______________________ __ _ 38
Effectiveness_____________ ___ _______ ___ 20
Amplifier, Thyratron and Wave-Suppression- Shore Bombardment__ ___ ____ ___ ____ ____ __ 21 Handling Precautions_____ ______ __________ 38
Feature Group__ _____________________ 3 ROUTINE TEST FIRING
Limitations _______ ___ __ _________ _~ _____ 21 Stowage_______________________ __________ 38
Amplifier ____ __ - ________________ ~ ______ 3 Time of Test Firing______ _____________ ___ 27 Loading_______________ ________ __________ 38
Effectiveness____________ _________ ___ __ 22
Wave-Suppression Feature_ _ _ ___________ 3 Exchange of Ammunition _________________ 27 Disposal of Damaged Fuzes_____ ____ ______ 39
Use Against. Ships________________________ 22
Firing Condenser ________ ______ __ ___ __ ~ _ 3 Detailed Instructions___ ________ _______ ___ 27 Disposal of Fired Duds_______ ____________ 39
1rhyratron____ _________________________ 4 Targets for Antiaircraft Gunnery Practice
with VT Fuzes_ _______________________ 22 General Information __ ______ ____ _______ .___ 27 Degaussing and Deperming_ _ _____________ 39
Reserve Energizer___ _____ ___ ___ _____ _____ 4 Detailed Test Results_ ___________________ 29 Shipboard Radio and Radar___ ____ ___ _____ 39
Spin Breaker __________________________ 5 Firing Precautions _____ ________ ____ __ ____- 39
Chapter 7 Type of Fuze Action ______ ~ ----------- - - 29
Dry Energizers_ _ _ _____________________ 5 No Observation________ __ ___________ __ _ 29
Rear Fitting _______ ____ - ____ ________ ! ____ 5 CHARACTERISTICS
I>istinction Between Low Normals and Appendix B
Squib____ _____ _____ ___________________ 5 Operability_________ __ ____________ _______ 23
Duds_______ ______ _________________ _ 29
ReedSwitch___ ___________ _____ ___ ___ __ 6 Percent Operability __________ -___________ 23 REFERENCE DATA
Premature Bursts _________ ___ __________ 23 Use of Table to Determine Round at
Mercury Switch __ __ -_-_- -- --------- ___ - 6
I>uds___ ___ _______________ ___ _________ 23
Which to Stop Test __ .: _____ __________ 29 Table 1. Navy VT Fuzes for Proj~ctiles and
Clock Works____ _______ ____ ___________ 7 Instructions in Mailing Report_________ ___ _ 31 Spin-Stabilized Rocket.<~ ________ ~ _~_ : ____ 40
Amdliary Detonating Fuze ______________ :_ _ 7 Temperature____ __ ______ ______________ 23
Assembly and Waterproofing_ _ ____________ 7 . Damage _______________________________ 23
Serious Effects on Operability_____ _____ __ 23
Chapter 3 Tracers_____________________________ 23
Coppering ____________________ _______ 23
OPERATION ____ --------------_________ 8
Hot Guns______________________ _____ 23
Chapter 4 Moderate Effects on Operability_________ 23
Atmospheric Effects__ ___ _______ _____ __ 23
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES
Window______ _____ _____________ __ ___ 24
Mk 32 Mods 0-10, 14, 16-18, 20, 30, 40_____ 9 Aerial Flares_ _ ______________________ . 24
Mk 40 Mod 0-5, 7 ___ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10 Salvo Fire- --------- ~ ----------- -- --- 24
Mk 45 Mods 11 and 12 _ _ __ ___ ____________ 11 Very New or Very Old Guns___________ 24
Mk 47 Mod 0------ ------ ---------------- 12 No Effect on Operability________________ 24.
Mk 53 Mods 0-2____ _____________________ 13 Degaussing and D eperming________ __ __ 24
Mk 53 Mods 3-6------------------------- 14 Shipboard Radio and Radar_____ __ ____ 24
iv CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL v
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages
..
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.
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Purpose ~ +-- .
Operation
T he 'purpose of thl' .Q_f is to acquaint officers VT fuzes of the U. S. Navy are of the electro-
and necessary personnel M th radio proximity VT magnetic type known as radio proximity fuzes
fuzes for projectiles and spin-stabilized rockets. and are actuated by combined proximity and
I t covers the operation, the performance character- rate of approach to any target which gives a
istics, the projectiles and rockets with which proper r eflection. This includes metal objects,
ILLUSTRAliONS used, and the theory of operation of these fuz es. water, earth, etc. Operation is the same at day
or night. The actual detonation of the projectile
Figure Page DeAnition is accomplished in the following way: A VT
Figure Page
1. Cutaway and exploded view of a typical The various types of proximity or influence fuz ed projectile radiates a continuous radio
18. Effective sensitivity pattern of.a VT fuze
VT fuz e (VT Fuze Mk 53 Mod 5) ~ ___ 2 fuzes for gun projectiles, howitzer proj ectiles, signal which is reflected from targets of th e type
compared with the fragmentation pat-
2. Sectional views of reserve energizers_____ 4 tern of a 5-inch projectile__ _________ _ 33 mortar projectiles, rockets, bombs, and other mentioned. When the reflected signal from the
3. Simplified drawing showing operation of missiles are designated by all U. S. Services target reaches an appropriate value, a condenser
19. Variation of transmitted wave amplitude
Spin Breaker Mk 1 Modo___________ 5 as VT fuzes. The term VT has no significance is allowed t.o discharge through an electrical
with distance from projectile_________ 33
4. Sectional drawing of reed switch________ 6 or meaning as an abbreviation, but was devised detonator called a squib. The blast from this
20. Wave relationships between transmitted
5. Sectional drawiDg of mercury switch____ 6 and reflected waves___ __ ______ ____ __ 33 for general usage in shipment orders, stock squib operates a standard auxiliary detonating
6. VT Fuze Mk 32 ______________________ 9 cards, loading lists, et~., when security require- fuze, which in turn detonates the main charge
21. R elationships within transmitter-receiver
7. VT Fuze Mk 40 _ _____________________ 10 ments during the war necessitated this. _ of the projectile. No setting is necessary or
of transmitted and reflected waves_~ - - 34
8. VT Fuze Mk 45___________ ___________ 11 ,,[;possible with current type of VT fuz es. They
22. Schematic diagram of amplifier circuit__ 35
9. VT FuzE> Mk 47 Modo_ ______ ________ 12 Description ~,liW.ill. detonate automatically if the proj ectile
23. Amplifier frequency-response character- fuzes passes sufficiently close to the target.
10. VT Fuze Mk 53 Mods 0--4 ____ _________ 13 istics_____ ________ __________ ______ _ 35 Navy VT projectile fuzes are nose I
11. VT Fuze Mk 53 Mods 5 and 6------,-.-,- 14 cylindrically shaped, with an ogive nose which Safety
12. VT Fuze Mk 58 ___________________~~ - - 15 24. Wave-suppression-feature sensitivity
curve_______ ___________________ ___ 36 usually follows the contour of the proj ectile. Special effort has been given to providing safety
13. VT Fuze Mk 59 Modo________________ 16 Their size necessitated certain changes in fuzed features in VT fuzes. As a result, they are per-
14. VT Fuze Mk 173_____________________ 18 25. Schematic diagram of wave-suppression- ammunition. The fuze cavity in the explosive
feature (WSF) circuit __________ ___ __ 36 haps the safest fuzes in use by the U. S. Navy in
15. Test Report Form-NAVORD FORM filler of the projectile bad to be made much regard to handling safety, safety in the bore, and
1758______________________________ 28 26. Schematic diagram of firing circuit, with larger to accommodate VT fuzes . The base
safety switches______________ _______ 37 freedom from muzzle bursts. VT fuzes are not
16. Schematic diagram of transmitter-re- detonating fuze was eliminated from the projectile immune from derangement if the projectiles are
ceiver (T-R) circuit_________________ 32 27. Average arming characteristics of firing because (1) the radio proximity fuze would not handled or loaded roughly so as to strike the fuz es
17. Standard dipole radiation pattern_______ 32 condenser___ ____ ______ ____ ________ _ 37 perform normally in the presence of tracer gases, on hard surfaces. However, dangerous conditions
(2) there was no need in antiaircraft fire for a are improbable as a result of such treatment;
base detonating fuze, (3) the absence of a base 1:ather, abnormal operation or duds may result.
detonating fuze reduced the hazard to surface
craft and shore installations from A. A. projectiles Remarks
reaching the ends of their trajectories, (4) more Because of the need for a proximity fuze and
space was left available for explosive filler. because of the effectiveness of even the early de-
However, the VT fuzed projectiles for the 6" /47 signs, the VT fuze was placed in service before it
gun do have a base detonating fuze without was fully developed. The further developmen t
tracer because of their probable use in shore and the information gained through service use
bombardment. resulted in improvements that were incorporated
All Navy projectiles assembled with VT fuzes in the fuzes. This accounts for the great number
are stenciled on two sides (180 apart) with the of marks and mods of fuzes that have been pro-
letters VT, %" high in black color just before duced and issued. As development approaches
the rear edge of the paint indicating the bursting perfection, there should be fewer models and
charge. changes.
vi CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 1
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
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DESCRIPTION
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a: (,) Introduction When the energizer is activated, the transmitter
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a:: main subassemblies or groups: surrounding the fuze.
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1. The fuze body, or container
2. Transmitter-receiver group, or oscillator
The transmitter-receiver is capable at the same
time of receiving the radio waves which are re-
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ct feature (WSF) group producing what is known as a target signal.
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5. R ear fitting Feature (WSF) Group .
(!)
z 6. Auxiliary detonating fuze.
The parts of the amplifier, thyratron and WSF
Since space is limited, parts are located to
group, with the tubes in rubber sockets, are
achieve maximum space efficiency consistent with
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function. As a result, the firing circuit function
is accomplished by components of the rear fitting
mounted on a plastic molding. They are con-
tained within the shield can, with the annular
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- and of the amplifier, thyratron, and WSF group.
Fuz:e Body
firing condenser encircling the parts. Electrical
leads connect with the transmitter-receiver and
contact pins in the plastic base.
N f/) N
The fuze body consists of a plastic nose ogive Amplifier. The amplifier consists of two minia-
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z .... body cylinder with external left-hand threads at
i= (!) 1- amplitude of the target signal appearing at the
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output of the oscillator detector until it is capable
1- 0 a: other end. The nose base ring is threaded ex-
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f/) 0 z tion, the target signal, even on close proximity to
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and internally to receive the external threads of
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a: the body cylinder. the target, is of too low magnitude to perform
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useful service.
a: Transmitter-Receiver Wave-Suppression Feature, The wave-suppres-
.... The transmitter-receiver consists of a on$3-tube sion circuit is composed of a diode tube and .
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(!) ct oscillating detector and an antenna. The antenna various resistors and blocking or filter condensers.
z 3: is either a conical metal cap molded into .the It decreases the sensitivity of the amplifier in the
a: plastic nose tip or a wire loop within the nose and presence of steady signals. Thus it renders the
(!)
z coupled to the projectile which acts as the radiating fuze insensitive to the relatively steady signals
antenna. The triode radio tube is set in a rubber reflected from waves when the projectile is fired on
socket for protection from shock and is mounted a low trajectory. This tends to prevent the fuze
within a plastic form around which the transmitter- from being operated by the reflected signals from
receiver coil is wound. The component parts are waves.
assembled in a plastic molding which is mounted on ]firing Condenser. The firing condenser is an
the shield can. The electrical leads connect to annular electrical condenser in the firing circuit.
the antenna and the electrical circuit of the fuze. It provides a means of storing an electrical charge,
A ground is obtained for the electrical circuit received from the energizer, which can be rapidly
through the shield can. expended, when called upon, to fire the squib.
2 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 3
4 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 5
/"'a Certain current fuzes, particularly some Mods through the plastic base and rim of the shield
Reed Switch. The reed switch is electrically of Mk 58, contain mercury switches which have can into a shoulder of the steel nose base ring.
connected across the firing condenser to prevent a copper cup with a hole in the bottom covered The press fit of these steel pins with the shield
the condenser from receiving a charge if the ACTUAL SIZE with a paper disc in place of the sintered metal can completes the electrical ground to the fuze
energizer becomes activated from accidental cup. Operation is as described above. The body and to the projectile when the fuze is
breakage of the electrolyte ampoule by dropping Fuzes Mk 47, Mk 53, .and Mk 59 have two mer- threaded into the projectile nose. Molten wax
or rough handling. cury switch~s wired in parallel across the termi- is poured into the nose to fill the void space.
Figure 4 is a sectional drawing of the reed nals of the eiquib for additional safety. The wax solidifies and protects the units against
switch. The switch consists of a metal cup with : Clock Works. Dry-energizer fuzes, now obsolete, the shock of handling and firing.
an adjustable contact stud threaded through the contained a safety feature operated by a me- The reserve energizer is plugged into the base
lower side and a metal reed inserted through an chanical clockwork similar to the Time Fuze of the amplifier, thyratron, and WSF group with
insulator in the top of the cup. The reed serves Mk 18. It ran for 0.4 to 0.6 seconds after leav- a supporting washer interposed between them.
as one terminal of the switch, and the adjustable ing the gun, at which time it removed a mechanical A fiat metal washer and rubber water-proofing
contact stud serves as the other terminal. The gate from the canal between the auxiliary deto- gasket fit onto the flange of the supporting washer,
spring action of the metal reed holds it in contact nating fuze and the electrical squib. An electrical so that whe,n the body cylinder is screwed into the
with the stud, making a closed circuit. The short circuit across the firing squib was broken
nose base ring the rubber gasket is compressed to
switch is mounted so that, when the projectile is INSULATING AND SINTERED METAL CUP only when the clockwork operated.
SEALING WASHERS form a waterproof seal.
fired, centrifugal force overcomes the resistance of The simpler-to-manufacture mercury switches
Figure 5. Sectional drawing of mercury switch. supplant the clockwork in current fuzes; how- The rear fitting is plugged into the base of the
the reed, causing it to swing out from the contact
ever they are not as positive or precise in their energizer, with a rubber spacing washer inserted
stud, thus breaking the short circuit across the
action. between them. Jn assembly, pressure is applied
firing condenser immediately upon firing. It is a safety feature of the fuze designed to pre-
to the rear fitting, and the holding ring is threaded
Mercury Switch. The mercury switch, when vent a charge from passing through the squib in Auxiliary Detonating Fuze into the body cylinder until it engages the base of
closed, completes a short circuit across the squib. case the -condenser accidentally received and re- The auxiliary detonating fuzes used in VT the rear fitting. Pressure is then removed, and
leased a charge. fuzes are standard. A complete description .of the holding ring is staked into position. The
A drawing of the mercury switch is shown in them can be found in OP 1212, Projectile Fuzes. holding ring also completes the electrical ground
figure 5. The principal parts are the metal body, The auxiliary fuze is assembled in the safe from the base of the rear fitting to the fuze body.
a sintered metal cup, a metal contact stud, and a condition and is armed by centrifugal force.
globule of mercury. The contact stud is extended The auxiliary detonating fuze threads into the.
It is fired by the squib and in turn sets off the lower end of the body cylinder. Waterproofing is
through the top of the body into the inner chamber main charge of the projectile.
of the switch formed by the sintered metal cup. accomplished by means of a rubber waterproofing
It is insulated from the body and makes one of the Assembly and Waterproo~ng gasket sandwiched between two thin metal
terminals of the switch. A brass eyelet which fits The transmitter-receiver group and the ampli- washers and held in compression between the fuze
over the rim of the sintered cup makes pressure fier, thyratron, and WSF group are assembled body cylinder and the lower part of the auxiliary
contact with the body and forms the other termi- inside the fuze nose and secured by steel pins detonating fuze by a threaded holding ring.
nal of the switch. When assembled, the globule
of mercury is in the sintered metal cup and in
contact with the stud, thus acting to close the
circuit through the two terminals of the switch.
The switch is mounted between the center and
the outer periphery of the rear fitting, with the
mercury toward the center and the sump farthest
from the center. When the projectile is fired,
centrifugal force acting on the mercury causes it
to pass through the porous sintered metal cup
into the outer chamber or sump, thus removing
the short-circuit it had imposed across the ter-
minals of the squib. Continued pressure for a
ADJUSTABLE short time from centrifugal force is necessary to
CONTACT SCREW cause the mercury to pass through the smtered
Figure 4. Sectional drawing of reed switch. metal cup.
6 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 7
Chapter 3 Chapter 4
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES
OPERATION MK 32 MODS o-1 0 141 16-181 201 30 40
1 1
(Obsolete)
When assembled, the reserve energizer is inert When the firing condenser is charged, the mer-
and does not supply en,ergy to the electric cir- cury switches open, and the auxiliary detonating General Data the wave-suppression feature were high at most
cuits of the fuze. The reed switch is closrd thus fuze is armed, the fuze is fully armed. The elapsed ranges, averaging 130 feet at 12,200 yards in the
'
placing a short circuit across the firing condenser. time varies from 0.3 seconds to 0.9 seconds in Projectiles Used In. 5" /38, 5" /25, 5"/51 A. A.
5" /38, with burst heights varying widely between
projectile fuzes and from 4 seconds to 12 seconds Common: All mods except Mod 30 could be
The mercury switches are closed, placing one or rounds. At shorter ranges, burst heights over
in spin-stabilized rocket fuzes. used in the 5" /51 gun at 2600 f/s initial velocity
two short circuits across the firing squib. The water averaged lower; but a wide dispersion in
The radio signals that are radiated by the fuze reduced charge only. Mod 30 could not be used
auxiliary detonating fuze is also in the unarmed burst heights did occur. Those fuzes without
are reflected from such targets as metal objects, in the 5" /51 rounds.
condition. The fuze remains in this condition the wave-suppression feature were especially af-
during transportation and storage and until the water, earth, etc. The engine and control cables Markings
of wooden airplanes will also reflect signals. When Mk 32 Mod __ __ _____ __ _
projectile in which it is assembled is fired from a
the projectile comes into close proximity to the Model ___________ _ Lot ______ _______ (and
gun.
target, the reflected signal from the target reaches date of designation)
When the projectile is fired from a gun, the
ampoule in the reserve energizer is shattered on the required amplitude and allows the thyratron
Over-All Dimensions and Weight
the breaker as a result of set-back forces, and the to fire, thereby discharging the firing condenser
Length ____ - ------------- 12 in. (approx.)
electrolyte is freed. Centrifugal force distributes through the squib. The blast from the squib
Diameter at base of ogive __ 3.3 in. (approx.)
operates the auxiliary detonating fuze, which in Threaded length ___ _______ 0.6 in. (approx.)
the electrolyte to the battery cells, and the reserve MK 32 MODS 0-7, 14
turn initiates the detonatio11 of the projectile. Threads ___________ -- .- --- 2.65 in. 10 R. H .
energizer becomes active. Centrifugal force act-
In early model VT fuzes with dry energizers, Weight_ _________ --- ~ ~ --- 6.81lb.
ing on the reed of the reed switch causes it to open
now obsolete, operation was somewhat different
immediately upon firing, thus removing the short
from present wet-energizer fuzes. Instead of the Material. Steel base ring; black Incite plastic
circuit it had imposed across the firing condenser.
mercury switches, the fuzes contained a mechanical nose ogive; aluminum nose cap or metal button
Cen~rifugal force causes the mercury in the mer- clockwork similar to Time Fuze Mk 18, which ran tip; steel body cylinder.
cury switch to be forced from its inner chamber for 0.4 to 0.6 second after leaving the gun, at Arming Range ________ _ Mods0-20, 40-700 yd.
through the sintdred m:etal cup into the outer which time it removed a mechanical gate from the
chamber of the switch, thus removing the electrical . canal between the auxiliary detonating fuze and Mod 30-1100 yd.
short circuit it had imposed across the squib. A Type of Energizer _____ _ Mods Q-20, 40-Dry
the electrical squib. An electrical short circuit Mod 30- Reserve
short predetermined time is required for this action. a_cross the firing squib was broken only by opera-
The auxiliary detonating fuze is also armed by Wave-Suppression Mod 40 only
twn of the clockwork. Set-back force incident Feature
centrifugal force. Centrifugal force throws the .
to firmg, closed set-back switches which connected
'
Self-Destructive F ea- None
rotor detents outward, freeing the rotors. After the dry energizer, which was the source of power, ture
set-back forces are expended, centrifugal force to the electrical circuit. Operation after arming Auxiliary Detonating Mk 54 (replacing the
causes the rotors to rotate into the armed posi- was the same as that in the wet-energizer fuzes. Mks 17 and 46)
Fuze
tion, so that their explosive charges are in line In' the VT fuze for spin-stabilized rockets set- Compression -Type No
with each other. back force is not depended upon to break the Waterproofing
After the energizer is activated, it becomes a electrolyte ampoule, because the force is far less
source of power for the electrical part of the fuze ; in a rocket than in a projectile fired from a gun. Description
the firing condenser begins to receive a charge: The ampoule is broken by means of a spin breaker This fuze was designed to initiate detonation
and the transmitter starts to radiate a radio signal. described in Chapter 2. ' of the round at the most advantageous point
upon approach to a target when passing within
the maximum influence radius of about 50 feet. MK 32 MODS 8,10,16,18,20,30,40
Burst heights above water for all mods without Figure 6. VT Fuze Mk 32
8 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 9
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480 VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES
fected by water surface conditions. Because of arming range given above. The arming range Employment a burst height of 10-30 feet was effective against
the wave-suppression feature, the . burst heights given was the distance at which 90% of the This fuze was recommended for antiaircraft personnel and lightly protected equipment and
above water of the Mod 40 varied between 10 operable rounds would be armed. At the shorter fire from a minimum range of 700 yards to the installations.
and 50 feet. The Mod 40 had normal sensitivity minimum range given for employment, 90 % extr me range of the gun. The wave-suppression
above about 200 feet from the water , but had would not be armed; but a sufficient perc'il~"'e fea~~ made this fuze effective against low- Remarks
automatically reduced sensitivity below that level of fuze were armed to make the fire effective I a t ~. ~
. flyiilg aircraft and surface targets. It could be The fuze is no longer in production or use. It
because of the wave-suppression feature. 100 yards less than the arming range given. The us_, d effectively for barrage of land targets where has been replaced by the VT Fuze Mk 53.
Mod 40, with WSF, was recommended for ny
Employment gun elevation and could be used effectively against MK 45 MODS 11 AND 12
This fuze was used for antiaircraft fire from torpedo bomber attack and PT boat attack.
600 yards minimum range (1100 yards for Mod These fuzes are no longer in production or (Obsolete)
30) to the extreme range of the gun. The mini- use. They have been replaced by the VT Fuze General Data by the Mk 45 Mod 12. The Mk 45 Mod 12 was
mum range for employment was less than the Mk 53. Projectile Used In _ _______ _____ 3" /50 A. A. later replaced by the VT Fuze Mk 58. Mod 11
Markings
MK 40 MODS o-s, 7 Mk 45 Mod _______ __ ___
and Mod 12 are not physically interchangeable.
VT Fuzes Mk 45 are constructed with only orte
(Obsolete) Model ____________ Lot ______ ___ __ __ mercury switch.
General Data Over-All Dimensions and Weight of Mk 45
Projectiles Used In. 5" /25, 5" /38 A. A. Com- Mod 12
mon. Length __ ---- - -------- - -- 7.7 in. (approx.)
Diameter at base of ogive __ 2.4 in. (approx.)
Markings
Threaded length ____ _____ _ 1.0 in. (approx.)
Mk 40 Mod-- - ----------- Threads ___ __ _____ _______ _ 2.00 in.12R.H
Model _ ________ ___ Lot _.:. _______ ___
Weight _______________ ____ __ _____ 2.40 lb.
Over-All Dimensions and Weight Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose
Length ________ _________ 12 in. (approx.) MK 40 MOD 0-5
ogive molded integral to steel base ring; perfo-
Diameter at base of ogive_ 3.3 in. (approx.) rated steel nose cap molded into the inside forward
Threaded length _________ 0.5 in. (approx.)
Threads __ ____ ____ ____ ___ 2.65 in. 10 R. H. end of plastic ogive; steel body cylinder.
Arming Range __________ ___ ___ ______ 600 yd.
Weight _________ _________ 6.8llb.
Type of Energizer _________ ___ ___ ___ _ Reserve
Material. Steel base ring; black lucite plastic Wave-Suppression Feature_____ _____ __ _ None
nose ogive; metal button tip; steel body cylinder ; Self-Destructive Feature ___ ____ __ ______ None
except Mod 7, which has green ethyl cellulose Auxiliary Detonating Fuze_____ ______ _ Mk 44
plastic nose ogive without button tip. Compression-Type Waterproofing__ _______ No
Arming Range _____________ 700 to 900 yd. for
Description
different Mods
Type of Energizer_ _________ Reserve This fuze has a maximum influence radius of
Wave-Suppression Feature __ Present a.bout 50 feet. Burst heights over water at long
Self-Destructive Feature __ ._ None range will average around 75 feet, with wide vari-
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze ___ Mk 54 (replacing ations in burst heights occurring as a result of
Mks 17 and 46) wave effect and variations in sensitivity between
Compression-Type Waterproofing _________ No individual fuzes. Burst heights over water at
shorter ranges will generally average to lower levels.
Description Employment
This fuze had a maximum influence radjtis of This fuze is used for antiaircraft fire from a
about 70 feet. Against aircraft below 200 fe et minimum range of 500 yards to the extreme range
altitude, operating radius was reduced, depending of the gun.
on the height of the traj ectory and the height of Remarks
the waves, because of the wave-suppression fea-
The Mk 45 Mod 11, with longer base, was de- MK 45 MOD II MK 45 MOD 12
ture. Burst height over land or water varied MK 40 MOD 7
clared unserviceable and recalled, to be replaced Figure 8. VT fuze Mk 45.
between 10 and 30 feet. Figure 7. VT fuze Mk 40.
10 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 11
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480 VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES
MK 47 MODo MK 53 MODS o--2-
General Data Remarks (0bs.o lete)
Projectiles Used In. 6"/47 H. C . M~ 34 Fuzes Mk 47 Mod 0 have the improve l f'O lfl- . G e er- 1 Data range of the gun at all elevations. It is also
Markings pression-type waterproofing. n. consists . of an effective against personnel arid light equipment in
Projectiles Used In. 5" /25, 5"/38, 5" /51 A. A.
Mk 47 Mod 0 annular rubber gasket held in compression between shore bombardment where an aerial burst will
Common . Mk 53 Mod 0 recommended for use
Model _____ ____ ___ Lot _____________ the VT fuze body cylinder and the lower part of produce fragmentation damage.
n ;5" /51 guns at reduced charge of 2600 f/s.
the Auxiliary Detonating Fuze Mk 44 by 111em1s Other mods may be fired at full charge.
Over-All Dimensions and Weight Remarks
Length _______ ___________ __ 9.0 in. (approx.) of a threaded steel holding ring.
Markings This fuze replaced the VT Fuzes Mk 32 and
Diameter at base of ogive_ 3.3 in. (approx.) Mk 53 Mod __ __ ___ ___ __ Mk40.
Threaded length ____ ______ _________ . 0.5 in. Model- - -~-- ---- -- Lot _______ __ __ _
Threads _______ : __________ 2.65 in. 10 R.I;I Over-All Dimensions an_d Weight
Weight ___ ____ ___._____________ ___ 4.91lb. Length _____ . : __ __________ -9.0 in. (approx.)
Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose Diameter at base of ogive_ 3.3 in. (approx.)
ogive molded integral to steel base ring; perforated Threaded length. _____ __ __ 0.5 in. (approx. )
steel nose cap molded into the inside forward end Threads ___ _________ ______ 2.65 in. 10 R . H .
Weight _____ : _______ _____ 4.79lb.
of plastic ogive; metal button tip; steel body
I
cylinder. Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose
Arming Range ____ ___ ___________ ____ 800 yd. ogive molded integral to steel base ring; steel
Type of Energizer _____ ___ ____ _______ Reserve body cylinder; Mod 0 has perforated steel nose
Wave-Suppression Feature ____ ____ ___ Present cap molded into the inside forward end of plastic MK 53 MOO 0
Self-Destructive Feature ____ ____ ______ _ None nose and metal button tip.
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze _______ ~ ____ Mk 44 Arming Range _____ __ ___ ~ ---- - - --- 800 yd.
Compression-Type Waterproofing_ ________ Yes Type of Energizer __ ___________ _~ _ Reserve
Wave-Suppression Feature________ Present
Description Self-Destr-uctive Feature ____ ____ __ None
This fuze was designed for the Projectile Mk 34 Auxiliary Detonating Fuze _________ Mk 44
(H. C. round) for the 6" /47 gun. It is not usable Compression-Type Waterproofing __ No
in"the Projectile Mk 39 for 6" /47 Double Purpose Description
guns. It has a maximum influence radius of
This fuze has a maximum influence radius of
about 75 feet. Burst heights over water or land
about 75 feet. Against aircraft below 200 feet
vary from 10 to 50 feet.
altitude, operating radius is reduced, depending
Employment on the height of the trajectory and the height of
the waves, because of the wave-suppression feature.
This fuze was designed primarily for use against
Burst height over land or water will vary between
aircraft at all altitudes and at all ranges over a
10 and 50 feet.
700-yard minimum, It may also be used effec-
tively against personnel and light shore installa- E~ployment
tions. Because of the probability of its use for This fuze is used for antiaircraft fire from a MK 53 MOOS 184
shore bombardment, the projectile contains a minimum range of 709 yards to the maximum Figure 10. VT Fuze Mk 53LMods 0-4.
base detonating fuze with the tracer plugged. Figure 9. VT Fuze Mk 47 Mod 0.
12 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 13
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480 VT FUZES .FOR PROJECTILES
MK 53 .MODS 3-6 MK 58 MODS o-4
(Mods 3 and 4-
. Obsolescent) (Mods 0, 1, 2-0bsolete)
General Data auxiliary detonating fuze remains the same f\.S ili General Data Wave-Suppression Feature __ PreMnt
Projectiles Used In. 5" /25, 5" /38, 5" /51 previous mods; but because of the long body Projectiles Used In __ _______ 3"/50 A. A. Self-Destructive Feature __ __ None
A. A. Common. Mk 53 all Mods except Mod 0 cylinder the distance to the shoulder of the cavity ' . Marldngs Auxiliary Detonating Fuze __ _ Mk44
are recommended for use in 5" /51 guns at full is increased; hence, Mod 5 will not fit any previous Compression-Type Water- Mods 3 and 4
. Mk 58 Mod------------
charge. projectile cavity. . Model ____________ Lot ___ _____ ___ _ proofing. only
Mk 53 Mod 6 is identical to Mod 5 in opera-
Markings Over-All Dimensions and Weight Description
tional and physical characteristics, except that Length __________ ______ __ 7.8 in. (approx.)
Mk 53 Mod------------ it operates at a different frequency (same as The maximum influence radius of thi$ fuze
Model _______ .. ____ Lot .. ________ .. __ Diameter at base of ogive __ 2.4 ,in. (approx.) varies betweeh 40 and 100 feet for different lots
Mod 3). Mod 6 is physically interchangeable Threaded length _____ ____ 1.0 in. (approx.)
with Mod 5, but not 'w ith any previous mod. and mods. Sensitivity .t o aircraft flying below
Threads ______________ __ __ 2.00 in. 12 R. H. 200 feet altitude is reduced by the wave-suppres-
Over-All J?imensions and Weight
Weight _________________ 2.40 lb.
Length __________ ___ _____ 9.0 in. (approx.) sion feature; the amount of reduction depending
Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose
Diameter at base of ogive_ 3.3 in. (approx.)
Threaded length _________ 0.5 in. (approx.) ogive molded integral to steel base ring; steel body
Threads _________________ 2.65 in. 10 R. H. cylinder; steel cap molded inside forward end of
Weight _________________ 4.91lb. plastic ogive; in addition, Mod 1 has a metal
button tip.
Material.- -Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose Arming Range __________ __ __ 600 yd.
ogive molded integral to steel base ring; steel body Type of Energizer____ ______ Reserve
cylinder.
Arming Range ______________ 500 yd.
Type of Energizer_______ ___ Reserve
Self-Destructive Feature____ ~one
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze ___ Mk 44
Compression-Type Water- Mods 5 and 6
proofing. only
Description and !Employment
Description and employment of this fuze is
the same as for Mk 53 Mods o-2 except that the
minimum range is 400 yards instead of 700 yards.
MK 58 MOD 0
Remarks
This fuze replaced the VT Fuzes Mk 32 and
Mk40.
Mk 53 Mod 4 is identical in all operational and
physical characteristics to the Mk 53 Mod 3,
except that it operates at a different frequency
than the Mod 3. This change in frequency was
made as a countermeasure protection.
Mk 53 Mod 5 is identical to Mod 4 except that
the body cylinder of the fuze is 0.316 inch longer MK 58 MOD I
in order to accommodate the compression type of
waterproofing between the body of the VT fuze
and the auxiliary detonating fuze. The length
of the projectile cavity to the lower face of the Figure 11. VT Fuze Mk 53 Mocls 5 ancl 6. MK 58 MOO 2 MK 58 MODS 364
Figure 12. VT Fuze Mk 58.
CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 15
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
. ..-
.
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND- SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480
on the height of the trajectory and the condition ders without compression-type waterproofing.
of the waves. But;St heights over land and water They operate at different frequencies. Mods 'r
average between 5 and 15 feet. 0-2 are physically interchangeable witl:: Mk 45 ,
Employment Mod 12 but not with Mk 45 Mod 11.
Mk 58 Mods 3 and 4 have long bod eyJi.nd: . Chapter 5
This fuze is used for antiaircraft fire at ranges
With compression-type waterproofing. ~ O' 3
from 500 yards to the extreme range of the gun at
all elevations. It is useful against low-flying air-
and '4 are not physically interchanger.. l). . \'-"l< h r VT FUZES FOR SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS
previous mods, nor with Mk 45 Mods 11 ... Ld 12.
planes, small surface craft, and in land barrage
against personnel, light equipment, and installations.
The Mod 3 operates at the same freq lenc.v as MK 173 MODS 0, 2, AND 4
the Mod 2. The Mod 4 operates at the s, .n;.e
Remarks frequency as the Mod 1. G eneral Data Description
The VT Fuze Mk 58 has replaceJ the VT Fuze All mods of Mk 58 have similar operationai
Mk 45. Mk 58 Mods 0-2 have short body cylin- characteristics. Rockets Used In. 5.0-in . Surface High Capacity The operation of the VT Fuze Mk 173 is very
Spin-Stabilized Rocket (5.0-in. Rocket Head Mk similar to VT projectile fuzes. The differences
10 and Mods; 5.0-in. Rocket Motor Mk 4 and are in the internal construction, particularly the
MK 59 MODo
Mods). amplifier circuit; and therefore other marks of VT
General Data Marking fuzes are not interchangeable with the Mk 173.
Projectiles Used In ___ ________ __ 5" /54 H. C. Mk 173 Mod __ ___ ____ __ _ Neither are VT Fuzes Mk 173 interchangeable
Markings Model ______ __ ____ Lot ______ _.. ____ with other mechanical-type fuzes, because of the
Mk 59 Mod 0 Over-All Dimensions and Weight fuze cavity size. Another difference between the
Model ____________ Lot ___________ _ Mk 173 and other VT projectile fuzes is the means
Length ______ ____ __ __ ____ 8.5 in. (approx.)
Over-All Dimensions and Weight Diameter at base of ogive_ 2.4 in. (approx.) provided for breakage of the electrolyte ampoule
Length ___________ _: ___ ___ 9.8 in. (approx.) in the energizer. In the Mk 173 the ampoule is
Threaded length ___ ____ __ 1.0 in. (approx.)
Diameter at base of ogive_ 2.7 in. (approx.) Threads ______ ____________ 2.00 in. 12 R . H. broken by a spin breaker. See Chapter 2, page 3.
Threaded length _________ 0.5 in. (approx.) Weight _________ __ ______ 2.52lb. The distribution of the electrolyte to the cell
Threads _____ ___ _________ 2.35 in. 10 R. H. plates is caused by centrifugal force as in wet-
Weight _______ _____ __ ___ 4.05lb. Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose
energizer VT projectile fuzes.
Material. Green ethyl cellulose plastic nose ogive molded integral to steel base ring; nose cap
o~ve molded integral to steel base ring; steel body
molded into the inside forward end of plastic ogive;
Employment
cylinder steel body cylinder.
Arming Range__ _________________ 600 yd. Arming Range. The aiming range is 1800 to The VT Fuze Mk 173 is for use in ground-to-
Type of Energizer_ _______________ Reserve 3300 yards, with 50% of operable rounds armed ground or ship-to-shore bombardment against
Wave-Supppression Feature _____ __ Present personnel, light armament, and equipment. VT
by 2500 and 90% armed by 3300 yards. These
Self-Destructive Feature ______ __ __ None arming distances are based on standard conditions Fuzes Mk 173 are not satisfactory for use against
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze____ _____ Mk 44 of 70 F. propellant temperatures. Tests indicate aircraft, because of their long arming time. Such
Compression-Type Waterproofing __ Yes that the arming time will be slightly earlier when use is not recommended.
~=-- -
the rounds are at temperatures above 70 F. during Range characteristics and ballistics for the
Description 5.0-in. rocket (5.0-in. Rocket Head Mk 10 and
This fuze was designed for rise in the H . C . launching, and later at temperatures below 70 F.
Mods; 5.0-in. Rocket Motor Mk 4 and Mods)
round for the 5" /.54 guns. Type of Energizer __________ Reserve
using VT fuzes are similar to rotlnds with point
Employment Wave-Suppression Feature __ Mod 4 only detonating fuzes such as the Mk 30. A summary
This fuze is for use against aircraft from a (For more uniform burst heights at va.r ious of characteristics, with limitations at propellant
minimum range of 500 yards to the extreme range angles of fall.) temperatures of 70 F., is as follows:
of the gun at all elevations. It is effective against Self-Destructive Feature ____ None
low-flying airplanes and small surface craft, and (Future mods may employ an impact det- %Normal
onating element.) Operation
for land barrage against personnel, light equip- of VT
ment, and installations. Auxiliary Detonating Fuze ___ Mk 44 Angle of l!levation Range Fuzes
Remarks Compression-Type Water- Minimum 15 __ . _ 2500 ______ __ __ _ 50
All VT Fuzes Mk 59 have the improved com- proofing _________________ Mc;>ds 2 and 4 20 ___ _ 3300 __________ _ 65
pression-type waterproofing. Figure 13. VT Fuze Mk 59 Moe/ 0. only 45 ___ _ 4800 __ _______ __ 80
CONFIDE~TIAL 17
16 CONFIDENTIAL
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480 VT FUZES FOR SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS
It will be noted that at ranges less . than 3300 In salvo fire from Reel Feed Automatic Launch- When a rocket round misfires in the launcher, Safety precautions regarding rocket motors, etc.,
yards, VT fuzed rounds become slightly less effec- ers Mk 51, the premature score may increase toM .. , the entire round shall be disposed of in accordance are given in OP 1260.
tive. This is due to after-burning of the propellant 30%, with a four-foot lateral spacing between simul- wit-h instructions in OP 1260.
grain, which prevents complete a rming of the ' . ' ( :ll a rocket round is not fired, the round
Remarks
taneously firing launchers. With a lateral ;J> ;ng
VT fuze. This characteristic is less evident at of fifteen feet and a longitudinal spacinr-~ \ h lOl :,; ~~:r,hr.J le removed in accordance with instructions The Mk 173 Mod 0 does not have the wave-
propellant temperatures above 70 F., because
line of fire) of twelve and one-half feet . ""w j . ~d~ Jr 1260 . . The VT fuze shall not be removed suppression feature or compression-type water-
faster burning takes place. This characteristic is ,. , or t-he rocket for stowage. Unused rounds shall proofing. Mod 2, which is not expected to be
L~;~.uncher Mk 51, the normal incidence ' .t u.-:an .
more pronounced at lower temperatures. The
height above ground at which this fuze will operate 15% prematures for rapid salvo fire hat :_,p, ,,,.. refully restowed to .afford maxunum protec-
i ,, from heat, moisture, and salt spray.
issued, has compression-type waterproofing, but
does not have the wave-suppression feature. Mod
varies from 15 to 75 feet, while over water the obtained in tests. No salvo effect tests hr~ve y cl : ' P e.rsonnel shall take cover during rocket firing 4 has both the wave-suppression feature and com-
burst heights will generally be a little higher .. been performed with the Launcher M k 1():2. of VT fuzed rounds, because of possible premature pression-type waterproofing. Because of the
The average height of burst is about 40 feet from Safety bursts of rOtmds at about 300 yards from the longer body cylinder necessary for compression-
the ground or water surface. Fuzes may f~ction launcher. The fragment back spray from such a type waterproofing, Mods 2 and 4 are not physi-
if the trajectories pass within 400 feet of hill tops, The VT fuze Mk 173 is armed only by the spin burst may be dangerous. Safety features should cally interchangeable with the Mod 0. All Mods
ridges, or tree tops. For high-angle approach to (approximately 80 r. p. s. required to arm) of the prevent bursts from occurring closer than 300 employ essentially thG same frequency. At the
dense foliage, bursts will occur around tree-top rocket after launching. This fuze contains the yards to the launcher. present time only the Mod 0 has_been issued.
level, with bursts occurrring higher for lower standard Auxiliary D etonating Fuze Mk 44,
approach angles. which is also armed by spin of the rocket.
(
I
20 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 21
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
t
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1480
1200 f/s, but must be fired at full charge. There-
~.
fore, at ranges under 6000 yards, the trajectory effective in disabling and sinking ships _- ., ,.!'
is so flat that serious range error in burst occurs Against motor torpedo boats, personnel barges,
unless firing against obverse slopes. Above 6000 and other light craft, current VT fuzes with WSF - ,..
yards, this effect is not serious. are recommended for all ranges. ,.- Chapter 7
':.
Clearance of crests on which friendly troops are Targets for Antiaircraft Gunnery Pra.ctice .with
located should exceed 500 feet to prevent the CHARACTERISTICS
possibility of a burst over the crest.
VT Fuzes
VT characteristics for various standard targets:
Rough terrain, jungle, and swamps will eause Operability Duds. A VT fuze which fails to function in the
some increase in the burst height. Average proximity of a target or other radio wave reflecting
Influence Percent Operability. When new, and depending
Due regard must be given to the effect of Radius upon the particular model, Navy VT fuzes have a surface is known as a dud. Considera-tion must
random prematures along the trajectory when. (Fuze percent operability of from 65% to 90% normal. be given to the arming range and the extent of
firing over boat lanes, friendly ships, and friendly Target Description Mk 53) Remarks They generally are considered unsatisfactory when influence of the particular model before classifying
troops. Most spontaneous prematures occur short Mk 7 __ _ Towed sleeve __ . ------- Unsatis. they fall below 50% normal operability. It as a dud a failure to burst in the vicinity of a target.
of 3000 yards, and the danger from random pre- Mk 15 __ Towed sleeve __ _ 20 ft.~- Unsatis. should be noted that VT fuzes w-ith 50% normal Some duds w;ill burst upon impact if there is a
matures beyond this range is rather slight. Mk 17 __ High-speed coni- 20 ft.-- Unsatis. operability are more effective than normally set sufficient charge on the condenser and the pro-
Effectiveness. Navy VT fuzes function at about cal towed sleeve time fuzes with 100% operability, because of the ject~ lands in such an attitude that. the shock
the same height over flat land of any type as over Mk 19 __ ___ do_________ _ 20 ft_-- Unsatis. inherently greater range dispersion of bursts with closes the reed switch. This allows the condenser
the sea. Typical average heights of operation Mk 20 __ ___ do .. ________ _ 20 ft.-- Unsatis . the latter. The VT fuze does not cause a normal to discharge through the reed switch and the
are 10 feet at 6000 yards range and 25 feet at Mk 22 __ ___ do _________ _ 50 ft_-- . Sa tis. burst unless a target is within its influence field. squib. (See fig. 26 p. 37.)
12,000 yards range. Mk 23 __ ___ do _________ _ 45ft.~- Satis: Thus, with VT fuzes there is a direct relationship Temperature. Present VT fuzes are operable
VT fuze air bursts "follow" the terrain, and at TD2C __ I>rone _________ _ 40ft__- Satis. between fire control and the number of bursts. over a temperature range of 10 F. to 120 F.
ranges over 6000 yards the range dispersion of the TDC2 __ ___ do _________ _ 40 ft_-- Satis. The number of bursts obtained with mechanical Operation is best at moderate temperatures
F6F ___ _ ___ do ___ ____ . __ 70ft ___ Sa tis. time fuzes is independent of the accuracy of fire. (60 F.-80 F.).
bursts is only slightly greater than the fall of shot
with A. A. Common ammunition. Any metal cov- 70 ft.-- Satis. As a result, the word "operability" requires some Damage. A blow damaging the nose may affect
ered glider or comment. operability but will not render the fuze lJnsafe.
Use Against Ships drone of size The performance of VT fuzes generally is
comparable to measured in percent of units operating on a water Serious Effects on Operability
The danger area which large ships present to
VT fuzes is roughly twice that presented to impact a fighter plane surface at the end of a moderately long flight. TRACERS. Tracers cannot be used with VT
fuzes. Air bursts over a ship can be expected to Targets of small influence radius are considered Under such conditions, roughly 50% of the failures fuzes. When VT fuzes are fired with missiles
have an effect on light topside equipment and on unsatisfactory, since they present such a ~>mall are prematures. Many of these are otherwise containing a tracer, the fuzes either premature on
exposed personnel on the weather decks, but target area to a VT fuze as to give no true in- normal units which are triggered by some external arming or remain electrically inoperative until the
light splinter shields are sufficient to stop most of dication of the results to be expected when firing or internal disturbances before the end of flight, tracer burns out. (This is caused by the ionized
the fragments. Common and A. A. Common against a full-scale plane. and would have operated normally in the presence trail from the tracer flame.)
of a target prior to the point at which they prema- CoPPERING. Coppering of 3" /50 guns inter-
tured. Therefore, the number of fuzes normally feres with VT fuze operability. Decoppering by
operable varies with the distance of the target firing one or more illuminating projectiles after
from the firing point. Since only a small portion every 50 rounds is recommended.
of the projectiles fired at an enemy plane are at HoT GuNs. Rounds which remain in a very
the extreme ranges of VT standard over-water hot gun over 40 seconds generally will result in
tests, the operability of VT fuzes which come duds. The heat will melt the potting compound
within damage range is almost always greater than and cause it to flow, thus almost destroying the
quoted performance figirres. resistance of. the fuze to the shock of firing.
Premature Bursts. A premature is any burst
caused by a VT fuze which is not the result of Moderate Effects on Operability
proximity to the target or some other radio wave ATMOSPHERIC EFFECTS. VT fuzes fired during
reflecting surface. A large proportion of the atmospheric electrostatic distrubances have an
prematures occur upon arming with the first surge ~creased percentage of prematures. Prematures
of power, as with most electrical equipment. increase with the rate of precipitation during rain-
22 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 23
24 CONFIDENTIAL .C0NFIDENTIAL 25
VT fuzes with the wave-suppression feature explosives and vital installations. Only those t
.,_.,
automatically decrease in sensitivity in the persons essential for the work shall be in the vicin-
presence of spurious signals caused by such ity, and the smallest number of rounds practicable
factors as the presence of ocean waves near the shall be exposed. ,
missile, atmospheric disturbances in the electro- To remove the fuze, a special wrench made .to Chapter 8
static class, or stray internal voltages. The re- fit the slots in the steel nose ring of the fuze is
duction in sensitivity on such occasions reduces used. After careful unscrewing and removal of
the number of malfunctions that might otherwise the fuze, the fuze cavity is thoroughly inspected.
ROUTINE TEST FIRING
occur. Any loose grains of explosive are removed, and
the screw threads are thoroughly cleaned. No Time of Test Firing practica.ble, the stabilized gun elevation shall be
Life metallic tools are used in the cleaning operation, Routine test firing of VT fuzed ammunition by 15 for tests in five-inch and six-inch guns, 10
The effective life of a fuze is considered over because of the danger of sparks. all ships shall be conducted quarterly or as nearly for those in three-inch guns, and 30 for those in
when the percent operability of the lot falls below Before the new fuze is inserted, its threads are so as the opportunity offers. Each ship shall five-inch rocket launchers. Other conditions of
50% normal. The limiting factor on present inspected and then given a coat of luting compound. perform the routine test quarterly on all lots of test are left to the discretion of the ship, but
fuzes has been found to be the deterioration of The fuze is then carefully screwed into the pro- VT fuzes (except obsolete models) of which there general information concerning these conditions
electrical components in the presence of high jectile and thoroughly tightened with the special are 250 fuzes or more on board. This firing shall is requested in paragraph 1 of the test report form
temperatures and especially of high humidity. wrench. be in addition to target-practice allowances. The (NAVORD FORM 1758). The test report form
Deterioration takes place in all climates, but is purpose of this routine test is to provide the is shown in Figure 15. Detailed test results are
accelerated in regions of high temperature and
Precautions requested in paragraph 2 of the report form. In
Bureau with sufficient information about the
humidity . . A void producing sparks. paragraph 2, columns 5 and 6 of the test results
functioning of these fuzes with the least expendi-
Life of VT fuzes is considerably prolonged by ciean fuze cavity and threads thoroughly to table indicate the round at which the test shall be
ture of ammunition. Careful attention to the
storage at 40-50 F. under dry conditions and avoid ignition of explosive grains by friction of stopped. The method is to compa.r e the. number
form and completeness of reports IS therefore
avoidance of exposure to salt spray. Under the screw threads. of normal rounds observed previously in the test
required.
optimum conditions the average operability of Keep area clear of unnecessary personnel. (column 5) with reference numbers (column 6) as
current model fuzes is expected to decline slowly Expose only the smallest practicable number of Exchange of Ammunition given in the table. This test procedure saves
to about 50% normal after two years, with the rounds. In contrast to the wartime practice, authoriza- ammunition by stopping each test when sufficient
remainder mainly duds. Be certain that the new fuze is the proper one tion to individual .ships for the exchange of their information has been obtained about the lot. A
Increasing deterioration with age has little and of a size to fit the fuze cavity. VT fuzed ammunition on the basis of individual few rounds will give adequate information if the
effect on sensitivity, but the arming range gradu- Old fuzes are to be disposed of by dumping in test firing is now rescinded. lot under test is very good or very bad, but more
ally increases, thus eventually causing duds. deep water. The peacetime policy of the Bureau of Ord- arc required if it is close to the limit of acceptable
Fuze-Cavity Liners nance, now in effect, is to compile and analyze all quality.
Refuzing At the present time, work is in progress on test-firing reports and issue blanket recall and
unserviceability orders upon the basis of these
General Information
Because of the deterioration of VT fuzes, it may; design of a fuze-cavity liner for projectiles to General information requested on the fo1m is
become desirable to refuze projectiles with new accommodate VT fuzes. When these fuze-cavity over-all results and upon the basis of other im-
portant considerations such as availability and as follows:
fuzes when the old ones have deteriorated to such liners are incorporated in the projectiles, it is VT Fuzes Tested. Fill in Mark, Mod, Lot No.,
a point that their effectiveness is greatly reduced. planned to stow a certain percentage of a ship's distribution of replacements, availability of rework
personnel, existence of improved type fuzes, etc. and total number of this lot aboard after comple-
At the present writing there are no fuze-cavity allowance of projectiles without VT fuzes in- tion of test.
liners in the projectiles and the fuze body is in stalled. The VT fuzes will be hermetically Replacement authorization will also be issued to
individual ships or units in exceptional cases upon Date of Test. Give day, month and year.
direct contact with the explosive filler; therefore sealed in metal cans to prevent deterioration. Average Stowage Temperature During Month
great care must be exercised in the refuzing opera- The cans will remain sealed until it is necessary requests by the ship_ or unit commander or by
higher fi:eet commands. Before Test. Fill in average high and average
tion to minimize the danger of explosion or fire. to fuze additional projectiles in order to main- low temperatures, during past month, of com-
Refuzing is to be performed by authorized U. S. tain a ready ammunition supply. Detailed Instructions partment in which lot was stowed.
Navy Ammunition Depots. When this plan is inaugurated, instructions Temperature of Projectiles When Fired. Give
Detailed instructions for the conduct of quarter-
The refuzing operation is to be accomplished in for fuzing will be issued by the Bureau of Ord- best estimate of the actual temperature of the
ly tests are as follows:
the most suitable location, removed_:..from other nance. projectile or rocket just prior to loading in gun
The routine test consists of firing ov~r water of
from 6 to 40 rounds, depending upon performance for firing.
results, from each lot of ammunition containing Date VT Fuzes Removed from Cans (if canned).
250 or more VT fuzes. The test rounds shall be VT fuzes will be issued in cans in the near future.
taken from regular stowage and shall not be Fuzes unsealed for the same length of time shall
rmmds held in ready service lockers. When be used in the test of the lot, if practicable.
26 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 27
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT F.UZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS OP 1'.480 .-.
ROUTINE TEST FIRING
VT FUZE ROUTINE TEST REPORT NOTES: 1. Su&mlt original only. No covering letter i ne~eUGry;
NAVORD FORM 1758 (N EW 3/-46) . 2. See NAVORD OCL A7-46 lor complete inJtructionJ. Gun: F ill in caliber, mark and mod, and ESR Distinction Between Low Normals and Duds.
TO: The Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance, Navy Department, Washington 25, D. C. (or cail.ber, mal'k, and mod of rocket launcher). The operating radius or sensitivity ofWSF (Wave-
FROM (Ship name, trpe, and number) DATE OF REPORT
Area of Operation During Month Before Test. Suppression Feature) fuzes is automatically ad-
Give general ar ea; for example, North Atlantic or justed to a smaller value along low trajectories and
...
CALIBER MARK
IMOD . ESR AREA OF OPERATION DU RING M ONTH B EFORE TEST Air Temperature. Give average surface temper-
height of WSF fuze operation is 20 feet. A low
normal burst can be distinguished from a dud-
GUN
WEATHER
CO N DITION S ...
CHECK ONE:
NORMAL. A burst which occurs upon ap- contain base detonating fuzes.
7 0 7 27 10 17
proach to the water at the end of flight is a An estimate of the height of the normal bursts
8 0 7 28 II 17
"normal", recorded as "N". With all modern- by any practical means is desired. A sextant,
9 1 8 29 II 18 types of Naval VT fuzes, these bursts Will occur stad!meter, or mil scale in binoculars is suggested to
10 I 8 30 12 18 at heights above the water from a few feet to assist visual estimates. Close attention to dis-
II 2 9 31 13 19
200 feet . Average normal heights for A. A. tinguish low normal bursts from impact bursts is
12 2 9 32 .. 19
fuzes incorporating the wave-suppl'ession feature
(Mks 53, 58, 59, etc.) are 15-20_feet. However,
important.
Use of Table to Determine Round at Which to
13 3 10 33 14 20 record as "N" any burst under 200 feet.
Stop Test. Columns 5 and 6 are provided in the
14 3 10 34 15 20
PREMATURE. A burst which occurs along the table to determine the round at which to stop the
15 4 II 35 16 21 trajectory not near the end of flight is a "pre- test. In column 5 the number of normals pre-
16 4 II 36 17 21
mature", recorded as "P". Bursts near the end viously observed in the test are added together
of flight but above 200 feet are to be reported as to provide a running cumulative total Thus, if
17 5 12 37 17 21
prematures. the following type action is observed from a series
18 5 12 38 18 21
Duo. A burst which occurs on impact with of rounds: N, DIB, N, N, P, P, N; the record in
19 6 13 39 19 21
the water is a "dud-impact burst", recorded as column 5 is 1, 1, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4. The 4 indicates that
20 6 13 40 20 21 DIB. A round that enters the water without any there were four normals at the end of seven rounds.
NORMALS PREMATURES DUDS
% % % explosive action is a "dud-splash" recorded as DS. This number is then compared with the reference
3 . SUMMARY OF TEST RESULTS ~
30 CONFIDENTIAL GONFIDENTIAL 31
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
"
THEORY
with direction and distance from the proj ectile,
~; .
"
..J
wave-suppression feature , and firing circuits. . ANGLE ABAFT DIRECTION OF PROJECTILE NOSE
w
a:
Transmitter Figure 18. Ellective sensitivity pattern of a VT fuze 0.2 ~
comparee/ with the fragmentation pattern of a five- .......... r--_
A schematic diagram of a transmitter-receiver
circuit is shown in figure 16. It is a modification
~!" inch projectile. -
of a "grounded-grid" Hartley oscillator circuit. Receiver 0
(Navy VT fuzes also use a modification of the 0 2 4 6 8 10
In the presence of a reflecting target a portion
Colpitts oscillator circuit.) The tuned circuit is RELATIVE DISTANCE FROM PROJECTILE
of the radiated wave is returned to the oscillator. Figure 19. Variation of transmitted wave amplitude
comprised of the coil, the distributed capacity
As the amplitude of the radiated wave varies with distance from projectile.
(largely between the antenna and the projectile
body), and the inter-electrode capacities of the . I I
tube. This "distributed capacity" is represented I I t---t
+ 2 1---f----f-----f----t---+,
. +2 ....
in the diagram by a condenser connected across ....1&1 I
the coil by dotted lines. The plate is held at I "' I
~
C)
a: I I
projectile body voltage, so far as radio-frequency
currents are concerned, by the bypass condenser. ANGLE ABAFT DIRECTION OF PROJECTILE NOSE
~ Ia I
to the axis of the projectile body. This is modi- I -1 ' I
I I
fied by the amplifier-response characteristics to
produce an effective sensitivity pattern that
I I
-REFLECTED WAVE
~ I
l I I I
more closely matches the fragmentation pattern. t II --TRANSMITTED WAVE ~!
The standard dipole pattern is shown in figure -2 -2~--~----~----T----4--~v~r-~
Figure 16. Schematic diagram of transmitter-receiver
17, and the effective sensitivity pattern is com- "
(T-R) circuit.
pared with the fragmentation pattern of a pro- 2 3 4 2 3 4
5
As with all radio-frequency oscillators, the jectile in figure 18. The amplitude of the ra-
DISTANCE FROM TARGET
oscillation is started by some stray electrical diated wave also varies with the distance from
OPPOSING REINFORCING
voltage in the circuit impressed on the grid of the the projectile, as shown by the curve iu figure 19.
Figure 20. Wave relationships between transmitted ancl rellectecl waves.
32 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 33
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
..<.:
plate current, as shown by figure 21 (right). the first amplifier tube through the grid resistor. to the one to which the signal is applied. One of "'
C)
1&1
If the oscillator is moved to a position where the The amplifier is connected electrically through the these shields the plate from the filament and >
total distance the radio wave has to travel is an fuze body to the projectile body and by leads to the therefore makes the plate current independent of ~ ~4~-~------t----f--t----+-~
..J
1&1
odd number of half wave lengths, as shown in "A" and "B" batteries. the plate voltage. It is called the "screen" and a:
TARGET SIGNALS
figure 20 (left), the conditions are reversed. The The main purpose of the amplifier is to take the is held at a positive voltage with respect to the
reflected signal is opposite in polarity to the signal weak signal developed by the transmitter-receiver filament. The other, called a "suppressor", is
being emitted; the two signals therefore subtract in the presence of a target, and to amplify it until held at the same potential as the filament by a
it is capable of operating the firing circuit. connection inside the tube. Its purpose is to 0.2 '----I..,.----......L-----'--.1....-......L----l
from each other; the amplitude of oscillation is 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5
less; and the resultant plate. current, as shown in This is accomplished by a conventional resist- prevent current flow from the plate to the screen RELATIVE SIGNAL FREQUENCY
figure 21 (left) is smaller than that which occurs ance-coupled pentode amplifier of two stage;;. in those instances in which the screen is more Figure 23. Amplifier frequency-response
when the oscillator is far from a target. The input blocking condenser keeps the positive positive than the plate. The screen is connected characteristics.
34 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIA,_ 35
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILiZED ROCKETS THEORY
\
frequency. The limitation upon the frequencies Wave-Suppression-'Feature Circuit. , , grid C!f the first amplifier pentode. This pentode the projectile is near a target. It is a triode radio
that are amplified modifies, in effect, the standard As is pointed out above, the amplitdde of'a is so designed that its amplification decreases with tube with a small amount of argon gas in the bulb .
radiation pattern of figure 17 to produce the target signal increases rapidly as the projectile increasing negative voltage on the grid. The grid of this tube is normally maintained at a
effective sensitivity pattern of figure 18. approaches. In contrast, other signals, such as The filter resistor and bypass condenser cannot negative voltage with respect to the filament by
The amplifier is made less sensitive to relatively those resulting when a projectile passes over ocean follow the rapid increase in signal amplitude as the a" C" or grid battery, shown in the circuit diagram
low frequencies by the screen bypass condenser, waves, have a nearly constant average amplitude. target is approached, so that the target signal gets of figure 26. This negative voltage prevents any
while a similar function is performed by the plate They are sometimes large enough so that the fuz e through the amplifier and operates the firing cir- current flow in the tube.
would be operated by them, except for a wave- When a target signal is present in the output of
AMPLIFIER OUTPUT
suppression circuit which decreases the sensitivity the amplifier, however, the blocking condenser
1.0
of the amplifier in the presence of steady signals. shown in the grid circuit of the thyratron charges
The curve in figure 24 -shows how amplifier sensi- FIRING
COI'IlENSf.R
and discharges with the signal through the grid
0.8
1\ tivity is decreased as strength of signals increases.
A schematic diagram of the wave-suppression
resistor. The charging current;, flowing through
this resistor, causes the grid end of it to be alter-
>-
!:::
>
!::: 0.6
(/)
\ feature circuit is shown in figure 25. The output
from the amplifier is applied through a blocking
condenser and a load resistor to the plate of the
nately positive and negative with respect to the
negative "C" voltage. A signal of sufficient am-
plitude will eventually swing sufficiently positive
\\
z SQUIB
UJ
(/) diode tube in the wave-suppression-feature circuit. to overcome the control supplied by the negative
UJ When the signal is positive, the diode draws cur- voltage of the "C" battery, and current can flow
> 0.4 rent, and the resultant drop in the load resistor in the thyratron.
~
_.
<(
prevents the diode plate from becoming very As soon as current starts to flow, the argon gas
"'
UJ
positive; but when the signal is negative, no current in the thyratron is ionized, and a heavy current
a: figure 26. Sch~matic diagram of firing circuit, with
flow, carried by the argon ions, can take place be-
0.2
r---_ AMPLIFIER OUTPUT safety switches.
~BLOO<ItiG
200r-------.-------.-------.-----~
cuit before the wave-suppression voltage builds up. _.
1&1
Ill
CONDENSER This assumes that; the fuze is armed while over
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 _.
C(
bypass condenser for relatively high frequencies. does ~ot give sufficient output to operate the >- loor-------+-------~-------+------~
a:
C(
When a r elatively low frequency is impressed firing circuit, no matter how great its value. (/)
(/)
on the grid of the pentode, as the grid voltage 1&1
firing Circuit
increases the bypass condenser does not prevent
Figure 26 is a schemat;ic diagram of the firing
...
0
sor-------~L-----4--------+------~
the screen current (and hence, also, the screen
circuit. When the round is fired, current flows
...z
0
voltage) from increasing. This is at the expense
of the plate current and decreases the amplifica-
FILTER RESISTOR
BYPASS CONDENSER
from the "B" battery, through the charging re- ...z
tion of the a.pplied signal. However, when a higher sistor, into the firing condenser. This condenser 1&1
0
a::
frequency is impressed on the grid, the screen is provides a means of storing electrical energy which 1&1
0. 50 100 150 200
held at a substantially constant voltage because can be rapidly expended, when called upon, to
WSF OUTPUT PERCENT OF ARMING TIME
the bypass condenser cannot charge and discharge PROJECTILE BODY fire the squib.
figure 27. Average arming characteristics of firing
quickly enough to allow a corresponding variation figure 25. Schematic diagram of wave-suppression The rate at which energy accumulates in the condenser.
in screen voltage. Thus the amplification of the feature (WSF) circuit. condenser is limit;ed by the charging resistor.
signal is not affected. flows in the diode, and the plate goes as far nega- Before the electrical arming time has passed, there tween the thyratron plate and its filament. This
In performing the complementary function, the tive as does the amplifier output signal. The is insufficient energy in the condenser to operate current flow, which is now independent of the
plate bypass condenser decreases the amount by average rectified d-e voltage on the plate is there- the squib; but after arming there is an excess of voltage on the grid, is so heavy that the thyratron
which relatively high frequency signals are ampli- fore negative by an amount proportional to the energy to insure reliable operation. This is shown plate is effectively shorted to the filam ent, and the
fied. Lower frequency changes are unaffected, amplifier output. by the curve in figure 27. firing condenser rapidly discharges through. the
and the amplified signal can produce its equivalent This average d-e voltage is filter.~ d by a filter The thyratron is an electronic switch which thyratron and squib. The squib is exploded by
output voltage. resistor and bypass condenser and applied to the <lischarges the condenser through the squib when the surge of current.
36 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 37
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
1
.
.. SAFETY FEAlURES, HANDLING, AND PRECAUTIONS
plt)yed in any particular mount. Ships with open long as one year after being fired, even though
mount and multiple fuze pots alongside the gun the nose was smashed.
need not pass VT fuzed rounds through the fuze All such duds should be disposed of by com-
pot oper~tion unless it is desired to do so in the petent bomb disposal personnel.
Appendix A interest of uniform handling procedure.
Degaussing and Deperming
Mk 58 fuzed 3" /50 projectil{}s must not be used
SAFETY FEATURES, HANDLING, AND PRECAUTIONS with any knife-type fuze setter which will cut VT ammunition need not be removed from a
ship during degaussing, deperming, etc. These
or crack the plastic nose.
operations have no effect on the fuze.
This chapter is a summary of the safety fea- Handling Precautions Disposal of Damaged Fuzes
tures of VT fuzes and precautions to be observed Damaged fuzes shall be disposed of by dropping
Shipboard Radio and Radar
VT fuzes should be given the same care in
in handling, stowing, and using the fuzes. handling that is ordinarily given to all ammuni- the fuzed projectiles over the side in deep water The frequency of VT fuzes is selected so that
tion. Direct blows on the nose may result in in accordance with latest instruction for disposal shipboard radio and radar equipment should
Safety Features breakage of the plastic nose, but have no effect of ammunition. No VT fuze shall be disassembled have no effect on the operation or safety of U. S.
Energizer. The energizer remains inert until on the safety of the fuze. or in any manner broken down for inspection by Navy VT fuzes.
the ampoule is broken as a result of setback forces The ampoule of electrolyte in the energizer may any but authorized representatives of the Bureau
and the electrolyte distributed by spin forces im- be broken by more than a two-foot drop on armor of Ordnance. Firing Precautions
parted when the projectile is fired from the gun. plate. Breakage of the ampoule does not impair VT fuzes are subject to some prematuring
Charging Resistor. The charging resistor slows the safety of the fuze, and ordinarily no ill effects Disposal of Fired Duds after arming. These prematures and influence
up the charging of the firing condensor until the result if it is broken in the loading tray within 30 Fired duds lying on the ground are to be given bursts of projectiles falling among friendly ships,
projectile has traveled several hundred yards seconds of being fired. A dud will usually result, the circumspection accorded to land mines. A personnel, or equipment present a hazard in VT
from the muzzle of the firing gun. however, if the electrolyte enters the energizer VT fuze in the ground or lying on the ground is fuzed fire. In shore bombardment, fir~ should
Reed Switch. A small reed-type spin switch more than 30 seconds b efore the round is 'fired. very unlikely to operate by influence even if clear crests by 500 feet if occupied by friendly
provides a short circuit across the firing conden- undamaged, but an occasional one will detonate troops, because of the danger of an influence
sor which prevents the firing condensor from be- Stowage if disturbed. Almost all wet energizer fuzes are burst.
coming charged in case of breakage of the am- Deterioration of the VT fuze leads to a decrease i.Iioperative within a few minutes after being In 5"/51 guns it was necessary to fire Fuzes
poule previous to firing. The switch is opened in operability. Present models of fuzes, if ex- fired, and all such fuzes are entirely inert within Mk 32 and Mk 53 Mod 0 at a reduced charge of
by spin forces imparted to the projectile and the posed to spray, water, high humidity, and high a week. 2600 f j s. Mk 53 Mods 1-6 may be fired at full
fuze when fired. Hence this switch is a pandling temperatures will deteriorate. Constant effort is Old fuzes with dry energizers remain dangerous charge. Bombardment velocity of 1200 f/s is
safety device. being directed toward the development of a com- if disturbed, for indefinite periods. Recovered not satisfactory with any VT fuzes yet in pro-
Mercury Switch. The mercury switch (two pletely moisture-proof fuze. They are designed Fuzes Mk 32 have been known to detonate as duction. Full charge should be used.
switches in parallel in some fuzes such as Mk 53) to withstand temperatures from 0 F. to 120 F.
shorts out the firing squib until the switch is Best stowage is in a cool, dry magazine. Brass
opened by centrifugal force imparted when the waterproofing caps on some early issues of 5" /38
projectile is fired. rounds provided protection against moisture and Appendix B
Auxiliary Detonating Fuze. In the auxiliary spray. They were not removed until it was
detonator, safety is provided by the fact that two necessary for firing.
rotors must be in line before the booster charge
REFERENCE OATA
can be' fired. The rotors are held out of line by Loading
detents until freed by centrifugal force when the VT fuz ed five-inch projectiles should be p assed Table 1 contains pertinent data on VT fuzes for in characteristics of components under mass-pro-
projectile is fired. See OP 1212, Projectile Fuzes. through the ammunition hoists in the usual man- ready reference. The arming ranges given in the duction conditions. For example, about 40% of
Arming Range. The distance the projectile ner. Early fuzes were subject to occasional nose table are the distances from the gun at which 90% the VT fuzes Mk 53 Mod 3 are armed by 400
travels along its trajectory until it becomes breakage upon removal from the hoists in the Of all operable fuzes are fully armed and operative yards; about 90% by 500 yards; a negligible num-
electrically operative is called the arming range. mount. Breakage of this type is seldom en- against a target. There is some spread of arming ber are armed at 300 yards.
In different fuzes this distance varies from 500 countered with modern fuzes. Accomplishment range among different fuzes, due to fluctuations
yards to 1500 yards (1800 to 3300 yards for of NAVORD ORDALT 1788 on the fuze pot,
Rocket Fuze Mk 173). This allows the projectile or setting of the fuze setter in manual at "safe"
to reach a safe distance from the firing ship be- or 30 seconds, greatly minimizes the likelihood
fore it can explode, without danger to the firing of nose breakage. The fixed setting can be em-
ship or its personnel. ployed only when 100% VT fuzes are being em-
38 CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL 39
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents
~ TABLE 1. U. S. NAVY VT FUZES FOR PROJECTILES AND SPIN-STABILIZED ROCKETS
Current Models
Mk 47 Modo ___ __ __ 6"/47 Projectile Mk 75 .... .. .... _________ 800 ...... .... ...... .. Reserve _ __ Mk 44 .... _.... ____ .. .. WSF
34. CTW
Mk 53 Mods 5, 6 ___ 5"/3 8' 5"/2 5' 5" I5 L 75 ...... ................ - .. .. 500 ...... - ...... .. .. Reserve __ . Mk 44_ . .... _.. .. _.. .. .. WSF
CTW
Mk 58 Mods 3, 4 __ _ 3''/50 __ ______ ___ __ 50 .. .................. -- 600 .. ------ - Reserve _.. .. Mk 44 _ .. .. ___ __ __ WSF
CTW
Mk 59 Modo ___ ___ 5" I54_ ___ .. ________ 75 __.. _.... _ ___ .. .. _ 600 .. .... .. _.... . .. Reserve _ __ Mk 44 __ __ .. __ .. ___ WSF
CTW
"z
0 Mk 69 Modo ____ __ 6"/47 Mk 39 Proj.
for Double Pur-
75 __ ___________ _ 800 ____ ____ _ Reserve ___ Mk 44 _ _________ _ WSF
CTW
-n
pose gun. Producti"'l sched-
6
rn ule(! t )I' July
z
-t 1946.
)> Mk 173 Mod 4 .. ___ _ 5.0-in. Rocket, Sur- Not recommended 3,300 __ .. __ __ Reserve ___ Mk44 _____ ____ __ V.~F'
...,
,,,
).'"
. ~
~ e#
,.
~
.
_..
Gene Slover's US Navy Pages Table of Contents "
11k 173 Mod:o- 2 .. ... 5.0-in. Rocket, Sur- Not recommended 3,300 _____ __ Reserve ___ Mk 44_ _- - - - - -- - - WSF, Obsolete
face, High Capac- for A. A. use.
ity, Spin-Stabi- 75ft. over water;
lized. 30-50 ft. over
"0z land.
-n
6
rn
*Mk ~2 all Mods except Mod 30, and Mk 53 Mod 0 were recommended for use in 5"/51 guns at. reduced charge of 2600 f/s. All other Mk 53 may be fired
at full charge.
z WSF= Wave-Suppression Feature.
:! CTW =Compression-Type Waterproofing.
>
r-
-
~
42 CONFIDENTIAL
U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE a tl41