1*'

7.
Q0

4$
<er.

4$

"C

4-

4.

sd.

*#

.,

'

-.

REPORT MDC A0514

30 JUNE 1970
REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982
COPY NO. .Z

I
1
I
PERCUSSION PRIMERS,
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

I1

PREPARED_______________

APPROVED_______________

ER, Lake

VW, Drexallu$

Staff Engineer

Senior Staff Engineer- Pyroteohnls

"W0MCDONNELL

AINORAPT

'iA

8ox 516, Saint Louis. Missouri 63166

MIMCDONNELL

S1chdtcibufion

COAUANV

@OULAW

,,", 1
Thi document has bp,, I '
public
hfo release and vale; its
is unlinited,

Report MDC A0514

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

I[

30 June 1970

ABSTRACT
Percussion primers are the key to many critical functions in aerospace
ordnance hardware.
This report is to be used as a specification for the use
of percussion primers.
It also provides the historical background of priming
compositions through to the most recent high temperature resistant mixes.
The input energy required to fire a primer with adequate safety margin is discussed, together with primer output.
The influence of primer reconsolidation,
flash hole size and baffling to reduce primer violence are included.
Design
data sheets fr- those primers most frequently used in MCAIR pyrotechnic components are included.\

I,

11
I
l
II
Acosloen1A

ror

DTIC TAB

~nS'a
uage

LI

Tciatributtonl/

Availability
IAvail

ii
ANOMONNIML DOVOLAW OO89PONATION

S*

Codes

a/871,-/oL

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE
ABSTRACT

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0

GENERAL

...........

PRIMER COMPOSITIONS

..

Commercial Formulations

............
Military Formulations o....
High Temperature Formulations .............

4
5
6

................

....................

INPUT CHARACTERISTICS

......
Firing Pin Design . . ..
.
. .
.. s ......
. . ..
Firing Pin Energy ..
. ..........
Primer Cup Indentation . . . ..

2.5

OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS.

2.6

MISCELLANEOUS CHARACTERISTICS

......

2.6.1

Primer Reconsolidation

2.2
2.6.3

,Primer
FlashRo.
. .9..999999999998
Primer
Back-Up Disc . ..................
Baffling$

...*

.....

a.a.a.a

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

REFERENCES

APPENDIX A
..........

. . . . .

5.0

..

SPECIFIC PRIMER APPLICATION AND SELECTION . ............

.

9 1

6
7
7
7I

40

.
.

..........

INSPECTION AND QUALITY CONTROL

..

3.0

2.3.2
2.3.3

.....

...........

.....

2.3.1

12.6.4

.....

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.3

2.4.1
2.4.2
2.4.3

I* I

SELECTION

2.4

2.2

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PRIMER CHARACTERISTICS

} ]2.1

10

.1
.

. . . . . .......9

MOPiONNPPIEL ZP04LAS OOMPPONATIOVN

13

A-i

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES

Figures

Page

1.

COMMERCIAL OR MILITARY CENTER FIRE PRIMER . ..........

2.

SHOTSHELL OR BATTERY CUP PRIMER .................

Tables

I
SVI

TYPICAL THIOCYANATE/CHLORATE PRIMING COMPOSITIONS .

II

STORAGE DATA FOR M42 PRIMERS LOADED WITH COMMERCIAL LEAD

THIOCYANATE/POTASSIUM CHLORATE PRIMING MIX AND ASSEMBLED
IN H71 CARTRIDGES .......................

III

PA 101 MILITARY LEAD STYPHNATE PRIMING COMPOSITION

IV

HIGH TEMPERATURE RESISTANT PRIMING COMPOSITIONS

COMPARISON OF ENERGY DATA FOR M42 PRIMERS ...........

PERCUSSION PRIMER SELECTION LOGIC CHART..

......

TITLE PAGE
i THROUGH iv
1 THROUGH 14
"A-i THROUGH A-13

400PNPItELL

I
S*

@0VLAN CORPORAIVUOOR

ili

.ap

. .

. .

......

.....

LIST OF PAGES

*1

.....

12

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION 8
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

'
INDEX OF PAGE CHANGES
REVISION OAVE
AND LETTER

PAGES AFFECTED
EVISED ADDED REMOVED

30 Sep 76
Rev. A

REVISED 1Y

REMARKS

V.W. Drxlju

E. R. Le

itle

APPROVED

ii

iv

T
8
9
10

A-2
A-3

1-4
A-5
A-6
A-T
A-8

05 Apr 82

A-9
E.

Title

.W.

*L

athcart

~..

ii

Rev. B

iii
iv

4
6

3,,

87
8
9
10
11
12
13
14,
A-2

A-3
A-4
A-5
A-6
A-7
A-8

A-9

-10
A-1.1

'

-12

-13
-

_ "-

. . .

.... ..

amo@wOtNd LL AIMORApr

... .. .. . .. .. ..... ... ..

. .. .

, 1

. . . " . . .. . .. . .. .. . .

.. . ..

. . . ..

Report MDC A0614

30 June 1970

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

1.0

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this report is to acquaint,

space ordnance designer with the

fine points of

refresh and guide the aeroselection and use

oi center

fire percussion primers for aerospace application.

Percussion

primers,

which

appear

to

have

been

independently

invented

about 1815, by an American, Joshua Shaw of Philadelphia and an Englishman,

Joseph Egg (References 1 and 2), form part of a general family of pyrotechnic
components classified as initiators.
Included in this grouping but of 20th
century vintage are stab primers, stab detonators, and electric initiators.
While the electric initiator requires the application of an electric current
to heat up a resistive bridgewire to provide the igniting stimulus, both the
percussion and stab primers as well as stab detonators function by the applieation of mechanical energy in the form of a rapidly impacting firing pin.

The percusuion primer is probably the smallest component the pyrotechnic

designer is likely to encounter.
As such it is likewise the most frequently
overlooked and misunderstood component.
Its function may be likened to an
energy transducer, wherein it
converts mechanical energy from a suitable
energy source into chemical energy in the form of a deflagrating (to near
detonating) pyrotechnic reaction.
Since the primer functions as the link
between the energy source and the ordnance device end operation, it becomes
the key to many critical functions.
Contrary to popular belief, percussion
primers do sometimes fail to function despite the application of adequate
input energy.
Failure analysis in nearly every case reveals that the malfunction is
due to either incorrect primer inspection or installation.
The
purpose of this report in to provide the pyrotechnic engineer with design parameters, as well as new information on the usage of percussion primers.
This
report covers the following design points:

1o

Selection of
requirements.

1o

the

proper

So

fit

the

inspection

X-ray

Primer pocket sizing and reconsolidation recommendations.

Firing pin design and firing energy requirements.

installation.

and

dimensional

MODONPIIELL O

I1

specific

temperature

selection

of

the

Primer output energy.

:3,

.....

to

Selection of the optimum priming mix for the

anticipated.

primer

!OULANOOMPOMATIOM

ignition

environment

primers

prior

to

II

Report MDC A0514

30 June 1970

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

2.0

2.1

PRIMER CHARACTERISTICS

GENERAL

Typical construction of a center fire percussion primer is shown in

Figure i, which also depicts both the two and three legged blunt anvil variaThe pointed anvil design
tions common to different primer manufacturers.
shown in Figure 2 is used exclusively for shotgun shell primers (sometimes
Primer assembly consists of loading an
referred to as battery cup primers).
impact sensitive mix into the primer cup, covering it with a paper disc and
Impact by a suitably constructed hemithen pressing the anvil into place.

1.

in
cup produces
the metal primer
firinglocally
pin on compresses
spherical
between the
sensitive anmixindentation
the impact
the latter.end This

Since the primer cup is

indentation and the anvil causing it to deflagrate.
not perforated, the percussion primer unlike the stab primer, is capable of
The primer cups are
maintaining a relatively high pressure gas seal.
generally constructed from a ductile metal such as cartridge brass, to permit

the required deformation by the firing pin while still maintaining integrity
of the primer cup.

I\

~~3
Legged AnvilAvl

2 Logged

Priming Composition
GPIMSM041
"a

FIGURE 1. COMMERCIAL OR MILITARY CENTER FIRE PRIMER

AODONNSLL

OU@OLAS

........................................

00ONP0RATION

Report MDC A0514

30 June 1970

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

I

Anvil

Paper Diesc

,J

~Primer
Mix--

161

SBattery cup

FIGURE 2. SHOTSHELL OR BATTERY CUP PRIMER

IThe

I,

impact sensitive mixes, which are more frequently referred to as

priming mixes or compositions, consist generally of a primary explosive, an
oxidizer, a fuel and occasionally an abrasive material to increase sensitivity
to initiation.
Primary explosives are incorporated because of their ability
to explode when exposed to either shock, friction (and heat) or any combinanamely
The earliest known primary explosives,
tion of these stimuli.
meaning
gold and silver fulminates (from the Latin, fulmenare,
Splatinum,
Some fifty years
strike with lightning) were described as early as 1602.
preparation and
later mercury fulminate was discovered and by 1800 its
In the late 1930's mercury fulminate
properties had been well established.
formulations were gradually replaced by the much more stable lead styphnate
Despite this trend mercury fulminate
which had first been reported in 1914.
did not completely disappear from general use until after World War II.
The presence

of an oxidizer,

such as a chlorate

or nitrate,

in

priming

compositions is necessary due to the poor oxygen balance of the primary

Probably the most frequently used fuel for priming
explosive present.
"compositions is antimony trisulfide, since it also doubles as an abrasive.

2.2

SELECTION

As previously stated, the designer of an explosive train has two forms of

In
initiating stimuli available, namely electrical and mechanical energy.
selecting the latter mode, which frequently involves less constraints than
imposed by the use of electric initiators, the designer also has the option of
"choosing either stab or percussion initiated components. The former is of

ij

WONNIELL
DOUGLAS

COOMPORtATROA0

W.!A ... .

Fj
REPORT RMDC IA0614

REVISION B

5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

value when the available mechanical initiating energy is low but it suffers
from the possible disadvantage of back venting through the perforated cup.
While the percussion primer provides a gas seal, it does necessitate the
,.

availability of approximately

twice the energy required for initiating the

As a general rule it is best for the designer to select

stab devices.
least sensitive initiator available that is compatible with all of
requirements.

Once the designer has decided upon the use of a percussion primer, it is
For
necessary to select one compatible with the train to be initiated.
example, a pyrotechnic delay generally requires the least brisant primer available in order to provide surface ignition and to prevent column breakup from
Initiation of an explosive train, on the other hand, is aided by
the shock.
the use of the most brisant primer in order to build up the detonation rates
as rapidly as possible.

2.3

1The

PRIMING COMPOSITIONS

2.3.1 Commercial Formulations - Commercial priming compositions today can

best be divided into the non-corrosive and the corrosive type formulations.
Because of the maintenance impact on the small arms users (Reference 3),
primers containing the non-corrosive compositions are by far the most commonly
used, and are generally referred to as the styphnate type. Exact formulations
for these commercial lead styphnate compositions are considered, by the individual primer manufacturers to be proprietary and are therefore not available
for publication.
second class of commercial priming compositions, namely the corrosive
The earliest formulation of
type, contain no primary explosive materials.
this class was developed in about 1922 by the Winchester Arm Company specias a replacement for the mercury fulminate priming composition which
had been found to deteriorate rapidly under tropical conditions. These compositions were based upon the reaction between lead thiocyanate and potassium
chlorate, wherein the former acts primarfly as a fuel, but also exhibits a
marked sensitizing effect upon the latter. Winchester's first formulation was
subsequently sold (for one dollar) to the government after which the Army
Three typical
assigned it the now well known FA-70 designation (Reference 4).
lead thiocyanate/potassium chlorate priming mix formulations are shown in
Table I for informational purposes. The corrosive effects of this type composition result from the formation of soluble chloride combustion by-products
The vendor advertised elevated storage
produced by the chlorate oxidizer.
specification for both corrosive and non-corrosive priming compositions are a
minimum of one year at 160*F dry storage, however, Table II data on the M42
Any utiliNOTES
primer indicates a limited higher temperature capability.
zation of primers above the specified temperature limits must be with the
written approval of MCAIR.

Ifically
I

the
the

PM400NNELL

OOVOLAW OOMPOMATION

-f

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

TABLE I. TYPICAL THIOCYANATEICHLORATE PRIMING COMPOSITIONS

Commercial
(Approximate)
Percent by Weight

Military (6)
(FA.70)
Percent by Weight

Lead Thlocyanate

25

25

17

Potassium Chlorate

33

53

35

Antimony Trisulflde
TNT
Calcium SiuIcide

25
3
14

17
5

30
3

15

Total

100

100

100

Ingredients

Military (7)

Percent by Weight

TABLEIL STORAGE DATA FOR M42 PRIMERS LOADED WITH COMMERCIAL

LEAD THIOCYANATEIPOTASSIUM CHLORATE PRIMING MIX AND ASSEBLE
INTO M71 CARTRIDGES (6)
Storage
Temperature
(OF)
140
160
180
200

Safe Exposure Limits

Duration
39 Months
121 Weeks
41 Weeks
16 Weeks

Unsafe Exposure Limits

Duration

Firing Date
100%
100%
100%
100%

Fired
Fired
Fired
Fired

42
146
42
17

TABLE M]]. PA 101 MILITARY LEAD STYPHNATE

PRIMING COMPOSITION (5 & 6)
Ingredients

Percent by Weight

Lead Styphnete (Basic)

Barium Nitrate
Antimony Trlsulflde
Aluminum (Powdered)
_
__Tectr__ens

53
22
10
10
5
100

Total

.k.

Misfired
Misfired
Misfired
Misfired

once 5), it Is considerably more brisant.

. 1

100%
100%
40%
80%

2.3.2 MilitarZT Formulations - Because of proprietary problems associated with

the commercial priming compositions, the U.S. Army through their Picatinny
Arsenal
factilities developed
a number of formulations
based on lead
styphnate.
The formula for the most frequently used military equivalent,
designated PA 101 is
shown in Table III.
Although this was historically
developed as a substitute for the commercial thiocyanate/chlorate priming
compositions, primarily for the ignition of pyrotechnic time delays (Refer-

<,1

Months
Weeks
Weeks
Weeks

Firing Data

ACCODONN4LL

-;i

DOuOOLAW

OOMPO MArtI70

5
l

M"

REPORT MDC A0514

REVI,8ION B
5 APRIP 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

I
*

2.3.3 High Temperature Formulations - As a result of examining initiators

recovered from a B52 crash in April 1957, Frankford Arsenal found that they
showed degradative effects, particularly in the primers, from exposure tu
temperatures in excess of the normally accepted high of 165*F. Historically
it was determined that these same initiators had previously been installed on
a B47 that had been based in the desert.
It should be noted that it was
customary practice at that time to "inspect and repair as necessary" cartridge
actuated devices removed from aircraft prior to their return to Ltock.
Naturally visual examination would not reveal the degraded condition of the

"primers

and hence their reuse.

It was subsequently confirmed through a test
program performed at Yuma, Arizona,
that solar radiation of a B47 cockpit
could produce internal temperatures as high as 180* to 200*P.
In 1959
Frankford Arsenal therefore undertook the development of a high temperature
resistant priming composition.
Since it
was felt that higher performance
aircraft would also require improved temperature resistant primers, a goal of

successful functioning after 2000 hours exposure at 400*F was established.

Remington Arms Company subsequently developed a number of promising high

temperature priming compositions, identified by the prefix 'CG (Reference 9).

Of the twenty three reported mixes, both G-11 and G-16 (Table IV) showed the
best long term high temperature capability with the latter exhibiting some

j
*

limited capability
primers loaded with
1000 hours, wherein
400*F.
It should

for operation above 40OAF (Reference 10 & 1i).

The #49
G-11 priming mix have exceeded the original design goal by
successful firing was achieved after 3000 hours storage at
be noted that significant desensitization will occur if

primers loaded with G-11 or G-16 priming composition are allowed to be exposed
to high humidity following, or during any high temperature exposure.
The
basic sensitivity of the G-11 and G-16 mixes are considerably less than that
of the styphnate compositions and therefore require considerably increased
firing energy for initiation.
TABLE I.

HIGH TEMPERATURE RESISTANT PRIMING COMPOSITIONS

Inr.11

0-1n

Ingredients

1
.,

Percent by Weight

Percent by Weight

Potassium Chlorate
Antimony Trisulflde
Calcium Sillcide
TACOT*

53
25
12
10

53
30
17
-

"Total

100

100

TACOT is the trade name for a DuPont hQhtemperature re1sltant secondary explosive,
0 123.03411,5

2.4

INPUT CHARACTERISTICS

2.4.1 Firing Pin Design - Although percussion firing pin design criteria have
not been refined to the same extent as that required for the initiation of
stab devices,

it

has been determined that a firing pin with a hemispherical

tip gives improved sensitivity over that of a truncated cone (Reference 6).

J
* tradius,

The radius of

the tip,

(References 6 & 12).

which

range

however,

Nevertheless,
from

.020

SMCDOPNNELL
" ~1

appears
to

to have little

manufacturers

.050

OOV&LAS

inches,

be

on sensitivity

recomendations

should

CaOMPONA'ON

effect

followed

for

tip

for each

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

the hand grenade type of firing

For example,
individual application.
mechanism (with rotational travel) has in the past used a firing pin tip with
small(Reference
arms firing
while.045
the inches
tips of
of curvature,
.020linear
inch travel)
radius are
an
13) . pins
radius
generally about
(With

2.4.2

Firing Pin EnerAy - Primer manufacturers

in their data sheets custom-

This is
their products.
the 100% "all-fire" level of
arily povide
essentially the same as the mean firing height plus five standard deviations
or (H + 5c) x (drop weight), where H is the mean firing height, a is the
standard deviation and the drop weight is that specified in the primer manufacIt
should be noted that these data are based on
turer's specification.
reconsolidated primers, to be discussed later, fired at ambient temperature
is highly
Since these would be considered optimum conditions, it
(720F).
AirMcDonnell
desirable that an added margin of input energy be provided.
craft Company requires that this be accomplished by using twice the specified
mean firing height plus the five standard deviations, i.e., 2 (H - 5a) x (drop
weight).
2.4.3 Primer Cup Indentation - Any discussion of firing pin design is not
Uncontrolled indentation
complete without mentioning primer cup indentation.
can lead to penetration of the primer cup, which results is some back-venting
On the other hand, too small an indentation
of the primer as it functions.
may not adequately collapse the cup against the priming composition and the
It has been found that a depth of .020 to .025
anvil, resulting in a no-fire.
inches should be considered ideal for small diameter (pistol type) primers,
while a figure of .025 to .030 inches should be used for large rifle type
Although lower indentations may be acceptable, a minimum of .012
primers.
inches should be observed with conventional firing mechanisms, since
anything
leos is a "light blow" and may be the cause of a malfunction.
2.5

OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS

The output characteristics of a percussion primer can best be described.

as a deflagration of low brisance with the accompanying emission of hot
particles, flame and gases. In the past, various physical parameters of the
primer's output have been measured in an effort to evaluate or compare same.
Such measurements have included volume of gas produced, impulse imparted to a
column of mercury by the pressure pulse, closed bomb data, light and temperaEven two standard military explosive tests, namely the sand
ture output.
crush and lead disc tests, have been employed with the most brisant primers,
All the above tests,
in an effort to gain more meaningful information.
however, tend to be empirical and not quantitative in nature and at best
Quantitative measurements
provide only limited primer to primer comparison.
of total energy, however, can now be obtained for any detonating or pressure
producing device by the McDonnell developed Initiator Output Test Fixture
the
For primers,
sometimes known as the Energy Sensor).
(Reference 14,
specific value of such an instrument is its ability to integrate the pressure
With
time output, thereby pro' ' !ing a quantitative measure of cotal energy.
i primer output within lots, from lot to lot, and
such equipment, variations
As an example, M42
between different types of primers can now be determined.
primers containing commercial thiocyanate/chlorate priming composition have
always been regarded as "softer" than M42 primers containing the PA 101 mix.
Actual tests of these two types of M42 primers in the Initiator Output Test
Fixture (Table V) not only showed the distinctly different energy levels, but
M40ONNWPrLL XO@VGLAS

......

OOMPOMATION

K.

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

also

the

sition.

Smade

output variations

The difference

in

associated

output

primaneusing
mix has tehius(Reference
techals
been confirmed
uigUV/1R

Additionally,

it

with the

energy levels

two

types

of

priming compo-

between these two types of

as
15).a result

of qualitative

measurements

should be noted that Remington Arms Company primers con-

taining

the lead styphnate based 5086 priming composition are also somewhat
"j"softer" than primers containing the PA 101 composition (Table V).
This
probably results from the substantially lower styphnate content in
the

Remington mix (Reference 16).

TABLE V. COMPARISON OF ENERGY DATA FOR M42 PRIMERS'
02.793
Jib) I CI.PAI01
(In Jib)

*,(In
Low

25
105
61

"Average

8086
(In./Ib)

74
123
103

20
83
45

,3Datsbased on tests of twelve primers of esoet type.

3delays
.

In the past the aerospace ordnance designer has had the option of
selecting primers for a specific job.
For example, pyrotechnic pressed column
are more easily developed using "softer" primers for initiation.
However, now, the need to withstand longer periods of time at higher elevated
temperatures is rapidly eliminating these options.
Since this will probably
mean greater use of the more energetic type priming compositions, quantitative
measurment of primer output becomes even more significant for effective
utilization.
It
is recognized that while the quantitative measurement of
primer output, described above, does not provide the full story for the
designer, the data generated when properly applied, can be used to produce an
engineered application rather than one based on intuition, experience, and
luck.
The Initiator Output Test Fixture can provide a valuable insight in the

design

and

utilization

of

percussion

primers;

however,

its

use

is

not

mandatory.

2.6

MISCELLANEOUS CHARACTERISTICS

2.6.1 Primer Reconsolidation - In order to fully use the primer manufacturers' firing sensitivity levels, it is necessary to follow their recoimenda-

tions for primer reconsolidation. This simple

anvil is
reseated further into the primer
concurrently with their installation.
Failure
result in a primer sensitivity level different

operation, in which the primer

cup,
is usually accomplished
to perform this operation will
from that quoted by the primer

manufacturer.
,

2.6.2

Primer Flash Hole - The primer flash hole is located in the base of the

primer pocket.
It ports the primer deflagration products to the first fire or
primery explosive increment of the powder trains to be initiated.
Generally

1
I

AWD@)ONNELL

DOUJlLAI

ORA'rI.N
p

-!

*w-..

j....~.

--.

--

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Sit

is assumed that as the size of the flash hole is decreased, then the
pressure of the deflagration products and the length of their "spit" is
increased.
Since ignition of pyrotechnic delay trains benefit by keeping
(and brisance) to a minimum, this dictates use of the largest flash
hole practical.
By the converse, initiation of explosive trains is aided by
higher pressures and therefore a smaller diameter flash hole.
Propellant
is loes well defined, but would appear to fall somewhere between the
two extremes discussed above.
According to Reference 17 there seems to be
some question as to the overall influence of variations in the diameter of the
hole and its effect upon initiation of a firing train.
Since quantitative
design parameters have yet to be established it is recomended that information provided in the Appendix A data sheets be followed.
This information is
derived from, qualified components.

Ipressure
Signition

"2.6.3 frimer Back-Up Disc - In aerospace type applications the use of a

washer-type primer back-up disc is a necessity where gas sealing is required.
Although the primary purpose of the back-up disc is to prevent blow-back of
the primer body, their thickness can also be varied in order to control firing
pin indentation.
2.6.4 Baffling - Baffling is the well established technique for mechanically
reducing primer brisance, primarily in pyrotechnic time delay applications
(Reference 18).
This technique is quite often overlooked or discarded because

1
|

of the additional complexity involved.

With the present availability
porous sintered metal in varying thicknesses, it is believed that baffling
now be achieved with greater simplicity and improved versatility.
This is
considerable importance in view of the increased use of the more brisant
better temperature resistant priming compositions.

IN
I4OD0OV4ELL

04AOUGLAS

0OOMLWOfAVI@N

of
can
of
and

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

"3.0 INSPECTION AND QUALITY CONTROL

There

are

three

equally

important

inspection

and

quality

requirements that are mandatory when using percussion primers.

A,

control

They are as

follows:
o

Use of new primers

Establishment of primer lot control

X-raying of all primers

The use of new primers (not greater than one year old) permits the incorporation of a primer that does not have a prolonged and unknown storage
history.
With the trend towards a longer installed service life for pyrotechnic components specifically in aircraft, this facet becomes increasingly
significant if the much discussed goal of ten years is to be achieved.
In procuring primers from the manufacturer, the primer users should
establish his own lot control to provide traceability in the event any primer
anomoly is discovered at a later date. In addition,* record keeping and proper
identification form a necessary extension of lot control.
The X-raying of primers prior to installation permits their screening to
*eethat all parts are present and assembled correctly. Although this type of
deficiency is extremely rare, the cost of X-raying the relatively small quantity of primers involved in aerospace pyrotechnic lots is minor. The fallout,
of course, is the increased confidence of now knowingly installing only good
*primers.
Finally, it is mandatory that primer users obtain from the primer
manufacturer, certification detailing firing energy data for the primers
involved.
Although not mandatory, primer usees may want to verify this
information by performing their own input energy measurements.

1.

10

...

.......

.....-

MDC
EREPORT
A0514
REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

I
PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

4.0

SPECIFIC PRIMER APPLICATION AND SELECTION

Selection of the optimum primer for a task must be based initially on the

Santicipated

continuous upper temperature limit, since this has the greatest

influence on which priming composition to use.
The continuous maximum
temperature is defined as that upper temperature the aerospace vehicle will
experience accumulatively during normal operational life. The maximum life of
priming compositions at continuous elevated temperature has been previously
discussed.
The continuous maximum temperature should be used as the yardalthough short duration excursions above this temperature can be
astick,
The designer
tolerated by most priming compositions without degradation.
should therefore select the thiocyanate/chlorate type mix for- use where the
For maximum continuous
maximum continuous temperature do-' not exceed 1600F.
temperatures of 2000F, the styphnate/chlorate type priming compositions should
be selected and the G-11 type mix for temperatures between 200*F and 400'F.
In addition to temperature, consideration must also be given to the powder
train increment to be ignited and to the energy available to fire the primer.
"With the former, the advantage of using a soft primer (if temperature will
permit) must be weighted against selecting a more brisant primer and the
the latter
possible need of having to incorporate a mecihnical baffle if
Finally, selection of
primer is to be used for igniting a pyrotechnic delay.
(G-11 etc.) require
the high temperature resistant priming compositions
delivery of at least three times as much energy to fire the primer compared
typhnate/chlorate
militar
either c
erical
with primers
mixes.
c
n

The Percussion Primer Selection Logic Chart shown in Table VI in provided

for a systematic selection of primers, based on maximum continuous temperature, relative primer violence, ignition characteristics, firing sensitivity,
and availability.
Remington

1sheets

Arms

Company has

stopped

production

of

primers

for military

However both the M42-5086 and 49-Gil

application at Bridgeport, Connecticut.
primers are currently being produced in limited quantities at the Naval art
under the designations'-'
Maryland,
Ordnance Station,
Indian Head (NOSIH),
respectively.
Dimensional information for the data
PVU-1/A and PVU-2/A,
In addition,
on these primers was provided through Reference 19.
1M42-5086 primers are also being produced at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant,
Procurement for these primers is handled
Missouri (operated by Remington).
through NOSIH.

CODOINNNELL

aVULAA

OOMPORAMArOU@

RPREVISION B01

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

~a 5 APRIL 1982
Table VI - Percussion Primer Selection Logic Chart
I--

-aaaa-

maiu

Primer

Relativ

I Temperature IMx

Ignition

Violence

SotIgnition

CarcesisI

Good Pyro Delay

(Both Types)

Deoa
Deor
Del#

Pyro DelayFoel
Ignition (Both Types)

ChoaeGood

or Propellant Ignition
WIQ Battle

Acceptable Pyro Delay

Ignition (Pressed
Column Only) with
Battle

<

Good Explosive or
Propellant Ignition
WIG Baffle

Proeptbelln IntoDla
Note~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~into
ee
otnou 0Fmxmu eprtuede o fieerl
preclude~
~ fmeii
~~ ~ ~00,poie
~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~Clm
l ohrceatrai
uwittrmrhpal
r cetbe

(hPermestsedaprmrt
Only)

U@O@NND.L
WUOLAS@@MBaffle~

400OF

G~~1

2rsn
GodEpoieo
Ignitio
nt....
.....................................

Fors
Deli

EPORT MDO A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

Ignition
Characteristics

Flash
R

IHole I

5)xt
(Sensitivity

Good Pyro DDelay

Ignition (Both Types)
W/0 Baffle

For Pressed Column

0M420-53
For Linear Sheathed
Delay Use 0,t 25k.0.005" Dla

Delay
Good ryro(Both
e
Ignition
O BlTypes)
W/O Battle

For Pressed Column

Oia
Use 0.100d:0,025''
elayLinear
Sheathed
For
Delay Use 0.125.1-0.005" Ola

Use
0.080t'0.010
Dla

or Propellant Ignition
W/O Baffle

1I

Designation
Manufacturer
Iand
n

Inch-Ounces

26
Inch-Ounces

..

Acceptable Pyro Delay

Ignition (Pressed
Column Only) with
Baffle

5o

.....

"Acceptable Explosive

Primer

IFiring

>

(Olin)

M42C2-793
or
(Olin)
WW42C2"793
(i
(Remington)

S26

SINSIH!Inch.Ounces

or PVU-1/ A

inch-Ounces

WW42C1.PA10Of

use
0.095",'0.005"
Dia

M42Cl-PA101
or
(OlinG

0.080t0.010
Dla

Propellant Ignition
W/O Baffle

Use
0.095 0.005
Dia

Acceptable Pyro Delay

ignition (Pressed
Baffle
Column Only) with

9044-Gil
Inch-Ounces

(Remington)

85

(Remington)

Inch-Ounces

oNOSIr2

100

72.Gll
(Remington)

For Explosive Initiation

Use 0.0750.005" Dia
Propellant Ignition
W/O
Baffle

For Propellant Ignition

.1"OaInch-Ounces
Ue010

...
- 1...
..6

. .

., .. ..

v5 -Gil

',. . . . .,,,..=e

....

REPORT MDO A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

5.0

REFERENCES

(1) B. T. Federoff and 0. E. Sheffield, "Encyclopedia of Explosives

Related Items", Picatinny Arsenal Report PATR 2700, Volume 3, 1966.

(2)

T. L. Davis, "The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives",

Sons, May 1956.

(3)

B. A. Rausch,

and

John Wiley and

"Evaluation of Several Styphnate-Type Primer Compositions,

"Picatinny Arsenal Report PATR 2200, August 1955.

(4)

A. S. Hill, Olin Corporation, Private Communication, April 1970.

(5)

T. W. Stevens and K. G. Sheffield, "PA-101 Primer Mixture for Initiating

Delay Compositions", Samuel Feltman Ammunition Laboratories, PicatinnyI
Arsenal, Report No. 10, April 1957.

(6)

"Explosives Trains",

(7)

706-179, March 1965.

"Military

Engineering Design Handbook Explosive Series AMCP

Explosives",

Department

of

the

Army

Technical

Manual,

TM9-1910, April 1955.

(8)

T. Go Ciccone, Prankford Arseanl, Private Communication,

September 1967.

(9)

A. Schlack and T. G. Ciccone, "High Temperature Percussion Primer",

Propellant Actuated Devices Symposium, Frankford Arsenal, June 1961.

(10)

To B. Johnson and J. F. Kenney "Feasibility Study of Percussion Primers

Between 400*F and 6000F, "Frankford Arsenal Report M66-9-1, October
1965.

(11)

S. M. Kay*, "Encyclopedia of Explosives and Related Items", US Army

Armament Research and Development Command Report PATR 2700, Volume 8,

1978o
(12)

"Ordnance
Explosive
Train
Designer's
Laboratory Report NOLR-lll, April 1952.

Handbook",

Naval

Ordnance

"(13) A. S. Hill, Olin Corporation, Private Comnunication, August 1971.

(14)

M. Ls Schimmel and V. W. Drexellus, "Measurement of Explosive Output',

Proceedings of the Fifth Symposium on Electroexplosive Devices, Franklin
Institute, June 1967.

(15)

M. G. Kelley, "A Radiant Energy Technique to Measure Explosive Output",

Proceedings of the Fifth Symposium on Electroexplosive Devices, Franklin

Institute, June 1967.

(16)

T. B. Johnson,
1973.

Remington Arms Company,

0ODONNELL

V;

f0OILA*

Private

Communication,

November

OOMP@MNATlON

13

*.

. " ....

. .

*.. - ,.

_:

.. .

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

(17)

R. L. Wagner and E. L. Miller, "Influence of Flash Hole Diameter on

Percussion Primer Functioning Characteristics, "Feltman Research and
Engineering Laboratories, Picatinny Arsenal, Report No. 52, February
1959.

(18)

R. H. Comyn, "Pyrotechnic Research at DOlL, Part 11 Pyrotechnic Delays",

Diamond Ordnance Fuze Laboratories,

(19)

V. G. Pasquale,

Report TR-1015, February 1962.

Naval Ordnance Station,

Indian Read,

tion, April 1982.

7.

14

I.

II
@DP

WL

ODA**OP@

AVO

Private Communica-

Report MDC A0514

30 June 970

PERCUSS/ON PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

APEDII

ICOONL04LA OPNTO
IA-

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

TABLE A.1. DESIGN DATA SHEET SUMMARY

I
Data Sheet
Number

Primer
Designation

Type
Priming Mix

Manufacturer

M420.5300

ThIocyanate/Chlorate

Olin

M42C2.793

ThlocyanatelChlorste

Olin

2A

WW42C2.793

ThlocyanatelChlorate

Olin

M42C1.PA101

Lead Styphnate

Olin

3A

WW42CI-PAO1I

Lead Styphnate

Olin

44.G11

Gil

Remington

49.G11

Gil

Remington

5A

PVU.2/A

Gil

NOSIH

72-G 11

Gil

Remington

M42.5086

Lead Styphnate

Remington

7A

PVU-1/A

Lead Styphnate

NOSIH

1
II.I14.
i-A-2

"

M~~~reDaPEPELL DOUI1LAW
m.

If
EI

A-2

mO1MIOAVIOP4

no

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Sheet Number I

Primer Designation:

M42G-53OG

Ii

Manufacturer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0.111 to 0.119 in.*

Dimension 'S'

0,1748 to 0.1758 In.

"*Note: For ease of assembly hand Inspect and select only those primars

that fall between 0.115 and 0.11g in. Primers

can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achleve the esired reoonolldaltlon.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

C
Dimension 0'C 0.114*0:001 in, (

Dimension ID'0.1740 * 0.0005 In. (Use for Brass Primer Pockt)I

Dimension 'E'

,]

0.126*0.005 In, (Use Pyroteohnio Time Delay Ignition),

Primer Reconsolldsllon

Olin Reoommends that Primers be Reoonsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from 0,002 to
0.006 In. During Installation,
Flng Pin Recommendaltons
Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 in. Radius Tip,

d,..

Primer Cup Indentalion

Ideal 0.020 to 0.025 in.

@0MDO

OWFMLL

UAOI.IGaLA*

O01MPO

ATIOP

A- 3

7.

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Date Shoot Number 2

Prmer Designation:

M42C2*793

Manufacturer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0,111 to 0.119 In,*

Dimension BS

0.1748 to 0.175e In,

AF

*Note: For *&sooet assembly hand Inspect and select only those Primers that tallI between 0.11a and 0.119 In. Primers
can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achieve the desired roconsotidatlon.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

.3

Dimension 'C'

0.114*0.001 In,

Dimension '0'

0.1740*0,0005 In, (Use for Brass Primer Pocket)

Dimension 'E'

0.125*0.005 In, (Use Pyrotechnic Time Delay Ignition).

0,080 *0.005 In.
(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Ignition)

Primer Recononelidation

Olin Recommends that Primers be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from 0.002 to
0.008 In. During installation.
Firing Pin Recommendations
i'l

Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In, Radius Tip,

Primer Cup Indentation
Ideal 0.020 to 0.025 In,

40O

41MONNALL

W@UOLA

@ P AaM
~8P

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Sheet Number 2A

WW42C2-793

Primer Deslgnatlon:

Manufacturer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0.111 to 0.119 In,

Dimension 'B'

0.1748 to 0,1756 In,

'Note!

For asoeof assembly hand Inspect and select only those primers that fall between 0.115 and 0.119 in. Primers
can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achieve the deilred reconvoildation.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

Dimension '0'

0,114*0.001 In.

Dimension 1D'

0.1740*0.0005 In,(Use for Bras. Primer Pocket)

Dimension 'E'

0.125 * 0.005 in, (Use Pyrotechnic Time Delay Ignition).

0.080* 0,005 In.(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Ignition)

"E'

Primer Reconsolldatlon

Olin Recommends that Primers be Reconsolldated (Seating the Anvil) from 3.002 to
0.006 In, During Installatlon,
L

Firing Pin Reoommendatione

Hemlapherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In, Radius Tip.

"Primer Cup Indentation

Ideal 0,020 to 0.025 In,

M" CDONNELL
"
DOOLAW

A-5

.1

OOvPOm

ATrOpI

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION 8

5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSS/ON PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Dimension 'A'

0.111 to 0.110 In.*

Dimension 'B'

0.1748 to 0.1758 In.

II

'Note: For ease of assembly hand inspect and select only thorse primers that (all between 0.115 and 0.119 In. Primers
can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achieve the desired reconsolldatlon.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

Dimension 11C'

0.114*0.001 In.

Dimension VD

0.1740 *0.0005 In. (Use for Bras. Primer Pocket)

Dimension 'E'

a.ogs*0.oos In.(Use Pyrotechnic Time Delay Ignition).

0.080 *0.010 In.
(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Ignition)

Primer 11eoonsolldation

Olin Recommends that Primers be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from 0.002 to
0.000 In, During Installation.

~Firing Pin Reoommendatlons

Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0,045 In.Radius Tip.
Primer Cup Indenitation
ideal 0.020 to 0.025 In.

MODONPAELL

OiDUOLAS

A-6

____qv

04OR0POMA VIOPI

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Sheet Number 3A

WW42CI-PAIOI

FPrimer Designation:

Manufacturer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0.111 to 0.119 In.*

Dimension '4'

0,1748 to 0.178 in.

'Note: For ease of assenmly hand Inspect and aelect only those primers that tall between 0,115 and 0.119 in, Primers

can then be cressed flush Into primer cooket to achieve the desired reconsolldatlon.

Primer Pocket and Flesh Hole

,
SDimension

'C'

C
0.114=0.001 In,

SDimension 'D'

0,1740 0,0005 In. (Use for Brass Primer Pocket)

SDimension 'E'

0.095 * 0,005 In,(Us* Pyroteohnic Time Delay Ignition).

0,080 t 0.010 In,(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Ignition)

Primer Reconsolidation

Olin Recommends that Primers Can be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from 0,002 to
0.006 in. During Installation.
Firing Pin Recommendations
Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In, Radius Tip,
Primer Cup Indentation
Ideal 0.020 to 0.025 In.

"Mo,,,,LL

,POU,,--LA_

OOP@,RATSO~

A-7

....

,rr-..-...

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Sheet Number 4

Primer Designation:

44-G11

Manufacturer's Dimensions
Dimension 'A'

0.115 to 0.122 In.*

Dimension 'B'

0.1746 to 0.1751 in,, However the Two Petal Anvil Gives

an Eccentricity of up to 0,1786 in.

B-]

Note: For eass of assembly hand inspect and select only those primers that fall between 0,11r
and 0.122 In, Primers can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achieve the desired

"reoonsolidatlon.

SPrimer

Pocket and Flesh Hole

Dimension 'C'

0,117*0.001 In,

Dimension '0'

0.1740*0.0004 in.
(Use for Brass Primer Pooket)*

S~0.
1

!1742 *t0.0004 In.

(Use for Aluminum Primer Pocket)*

Dimension 13'

0.075 k 0.005 In, (Use for Explosive Train Initiation),

0.125 0,008 In. (Use for Propellant Powder Ignition)

'Note: These dimensions require an S0 to too pound Installation force for the primer within the primer pocket.

Primer Reconsolidation

Remington Recommends that Primers Can be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from
0,002 to 0.006 In, During installation.

SFiring

Pin Recommendations
Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In, Radius Tip.
Primer Cup indentation
Ideal 0,020 to 0.025 in.

*I

A000NNNLL

DPO&WLAS

A-8

@@MP@MAVI@Pd

REPORT MOC A0514

U

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Manufeotursers Dimensions
Dimension 'A'

IDimension

0.115 to 0.122 In.*

WB

0.1 746 to 0.1 751 In., However the Two Petal AnvilB

DA

Eccentrioity of up to 0.1750 In.

'Note: For maes

of assembly hend Inspect end select only those primers that fall

between 0.118 and 0.122 in. Primers can then be pressiled flush
Into primer pocket to achieve the desired reconsoiidstlon.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

Dimension 'C'

1Dimension '0'
5(Use

I
J

Dimension 1E,

0.117:0.001 In,

4-IN

0.1740 *0.0004 In.

for Brsce Primer Pooket),
0.1742:t0.0004 In.
(Use for Aluminum Primer Pocket)'
0.0750O.005 In.(Use for Explosive Train Ignition).

NoteThse
rquie
imesios
a 80to 00 oun Intalatin frcefortheprimer within the primer pocket.

Primer Reconeolldetlon

Remington Recommends that Primers be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from

0,002 to 0.006 In. During Installation.

II

Firing Pin Recommendations

Hemrlepherinal Firing Pin with 0.037 to 0.050 In.Radius Tip.

I]

Primer Cup Indentation

Ideal 0.020 to 0,025 In.,P5511

(Use for Propellant Powder ignition)

0.1250.005 In,

M4DONNNLL

@aUGLAS
A-9

@@MP@MNAV@N

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B

5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

primer Designation:

Data Sheet Number 5A

PVU.21A

Manulaotuer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0.120 * 0.001 in,

Dimension 'B' 0.1746 to 0.1751 In,

Primer Pocket and Flash Hain

""

Dimension 'C'

0.117* 0.001 in.

Dimension 'D'

0.1740 0.0004 in, (Use for Brass Primer Pocket)*

0.0004 In, (Use for Aluminum Primer Pocket)"

Dimension 'E'

0.075 0.005 In. (Use for Explosive Train Ignition),

0,125 * 0.005 In. (Use for Propellant Powder Ignition)

S0.1742:

Primer Reconsolldation

]t

HE-A

"

NOSIH Recommends that Primers Can be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from
0.002 to 0.004 In. During Installation.

Firing Pin Recommendations

SHemispheriocal

Firing Pin with 0.037 to 0.050 In. Radius Tip.

Primer Cup Indentation

Ideal 0.020 to 0.025 In.

VODOMIONNLL ID4OsLAS

A-1O

'.

. ...........

aO

PO
WATION

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Sheet Number 8

Primer Designation:

II

72-01

Manufaclursers Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0,125 to 0.132 In.*

Dimension 'S'

0,2100 to 0,2115 In., However the Two Petal Anvil

Gives an Eooentrloity of up to 0.2130 In.

W/

Note: For eaae of assembly hand inspect and eeleot only those primers thmt alt between 0,128 and 0.132 In, Primers
oean
then be prseled flush Into primer pocket to cohieve the desired reOonsolldstion.

"

-D

Primer Pocket and Plesh Hole

Dimension 'C'

0.127*0,001 In.

SDimension
'0'

Dimension 'E'

0.2090*0.0004 In.(Use for Brass Primer Pocket)*

0.095*0,010 In. (Use for Propellant Powder Igrltlon).

-Note: These dimensions require an 80 to 100 pound Installation force for the primer within the primer pooket.

F'

Primer Roconsoildation

Remington Reoommends that Primers Can be Reoonsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from
0.002 to 0.006 In. During Installation.
Firing Pin Reoommendstions
Hemispheriol Firing Pin with 0.037 to 0.050 In. Radius Tip.

II

Primer Cup Indentation

Ideal 0,025 to 0.030 in.
Qpei4It.la

Pi@0DOONIELL DOOJOLAS

A-11

.....

O01POP

RATON

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Data Shoet Number 7

5 APRIL 1982

TPrimer Designation:

M42-5088

Manufacturer's Dimensions

Dimension 'A'

0.111 to 0.119 In.,

Dimension 1B'

0.1748 to 0.175e in., However the Two Petal Anvil Gives

an Eccentricity of up to 0.1761 In.

4A
'Note:

For ease of assembly hand Inspect and sellect only those Primers that fall between 0.115 and 0.110 In. Primers
can then be pressed flush Into primer pocket to achieve the desired reconsolldation.

Primer Pocket and Flesh Hole

Dimension VC

IDimension
J

'01

Dimension IEV

0,114*0.001 In.

0.1740 *0,0005 In.(Use for Brass Primer Pocket)

0.095:k 0.005 In.(Use for Pyrotechnic Time Delay Ignition).
(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Igriltion)
0.080 *0.010 In.

Primer Rooonsoiidetion

Remington Recommends that Primers Can be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from

0.0 o008I.Drn ntlain

I

Firing Pin Recommendations

Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In.Radius Tip.
Primer Cup indenitaton
Ideal 0.020 to 0.025 In.

MO

NMELL DOLUOLAN

A-12

OOrwaPOM*TD@oo

.11

REPORT MDC A0514

REVISION B
5 APRIL 1982

PERCUSSION PRIMERS DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

I!

Date Sheet Number ?A

Primer Designation:

PVU.11A

Manufeoturer's Dimensions

0
Dimension 'A'
SDimension

'B'

0.117:0.001 in.
A

0,1748 to 0.1756 In., However the Two Petal Anvil

Gives an Eccentricity of up to 0,1761 In.

Primer Pocket and Flash Hole

0
Dimension 'C'

0,114*0.001 In.

Dimension '0'

0,17400.0005 In.(Use for Brass Primer Pocket)

Dimension 'E'

0,095 0.006 In.(Use for Pyrotechnic Time Delay Ignition).

0,080*0.010 In,(Use for Explosive Train or Propellant Powder Ignition).

hEs

PrimerReouonIolidetUon

NO8IH Recommend& that Primers Can be Reconsolidated (Seating the Anvil) from
0.002 to 0.004 in. During Installation.
Firing Pin Recommendalions
Hemispherical Firing Pin with 0.045 In. Radius Tip.
Primer Cup Indentation
Ideal 0,020 to 0.025 in,

4" ODONNMLL

OI.I0 LAW OORP8MATIONV

A-13