The Measurement of Pressures in the Bore of Guns

Abstract

IT has been stated that many gunpowders which have given fairly satisfactory results in a small bore, have developed dangerous pressure when tried in cannon; and also that similar experiments with cordite showed no signs of any approach to such a “critical point.” Further, cordite is said to burn quietly when thrown in boxes of 100 lbs. upon a bonfire, and yet to be as suitable for ordnance as for small arms. But cordite did not prove so tractable on its late trial in Plumstead Marshes. It is plain, therefore, that explosive forces of all powders depend very much upon the conditions under which they are ignited.