Electrostatic Discharge (Esd) Tests

8/3/2019 Electrostatic Discharge (Esd) Tests

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E L E C T R O S T A T I C D I S C H A R G E ( E S D ) T E S T S

ESD Test

ESD testing is used to determine the response of an explosive when subjected to various

levels of electrostatic discharge energy. Electrostatic energy stored in a charged capacitor is

discharged to the test sample. The sample to be tested is placed on a special holder that

assures the electrostatic discharge will pass through the sample. A capacitor is charged with a

known volt potential (usually 5000 volts). The discharge needle is lowered until a spark is

drawn through the sample. The approaching needle method is most commonly used because it

best models the safety issues involved with ESD sensitivity. An infrared analyzer is normally

used to determine sample initiation.

Reference: Picatinny Arsenal. Navy-Indian Head MD, all propellant programs, Allegheny

Ballistics Laboratory

Explosives ESD Test Device

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a significant factor in both the premature failure of electronic

equipment and the ignition of explosive devices. ESD has become a common cause of

microelectronic circuit failure, with many devices being sensitive to less than 30 Volts. Since

it is not always possible to control the environment where electronic or explosive devices are

used, the burden of product reliability falls upon the manufacturer to design and build

equipment that will reduce its susceptibility to ESD.


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F R I C T I O N T E S T S

The ABL and BAM Friction Tests are the two primary tests of this kind. Both methods are

UN listed, however, the ABL Friction Test has been calibrated into engineering units, which

enables analytical comparison of results. The BAM test is good for relative comparisons ofmaterial reactivity only.

We are able to test solid or liquid explosives at various velocities and at various pressures. We

are able to test materials for friction sensitivity at ambient, cold or heated conditions. We also

can test for sensitivity to friction at different humidities.

Friction Test (ABL)

In the ABL Friction Test, the sample is placed on the anvil, and a known force is applied

hydraulically through a stationary wheel. A pendulum or motor drive is used to propel the

sliding anvil at any of several standard velocities perpendicular to the force vector. Sample

initiation is detected by visual means (spark or flame).

Reference: The Transport of Dangerous Goods: Tests and Criteria, second edition, United

Nations Test Method 3 (b) (iii) page 108.

Friction Test (BAM)

The sample is placed on a rough ceramic plate and a force is loaded on the sample through a

stationary ceramic pin, in contact with the plate. The plate is motor driven through a complete

cycle pass beneath the pin. The test sample is subjected to the friction created by the rubbing

of the pin against the plate. This method allows for ambient temperature tests of powders and

pastes.

Reference: The Transport of Dangerous Goods: Tests and Criteria, second edition, United

Nations Test Method 3 (b) (I) page 101.

BAM Friction Test Device


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Small-scale safety testing of explosives, propellants and other energetic materials, is done to

determine their sensitivity to various stimuli including friction, static spark, and impact.

Testing is done to discover potential handling problems for either newly synthesized materials

of unknown behavior, or materials that have been stored for long periods of time.

Friction of explosives between hard surfaces is one of the most frequent causes of accidental

explosions. Determination of friction sensitivity is a necessary part of characterization of

explosives.

The BAM" Small-Scale Friction Test, and the methods used to determine the friction

sensitivity pertinent to handling energetic materials are routinely performed at the UTEC

laboratory facility for specific clients and under standard as well as user-defined testing

conditions and protocol.

I M P A C T T E S T S

Impact tests are used to determine the response of an explosive when it is impacted by a

moving mass. This test simulates impact conditions in processing operations, wherein an

explosive is subjected to a collision between moving components of the processing

equipment, by normal handling operations, or by the inadvertent dropping of tools or

equipment.

Two different impact tests are routinely performed. The Modified Bureau of Mines Test isused to obtain data in engineering units. The Bureau of Explosives Test is performed in order

determine a DOT classification for the material tested (See DOT Classification.) Large scale

impact tests can also be conducted. SMS is able to test samples at various thicknesses (both

solids and liquids) and at ambient, hot or cold temperatures or at specified humidities.

Impact Test (Modified Bureau of Mines)

The Modified Bureau of Mines Test uses a 2-kg drop weight. The sample is placed on a fixed

anvil. A hammer of known contact area is positioned above the sample and the weight is

raised to a predetermined height and dropped. Normally, sample initiation is detected byaudible or visual means or by infrared analysis of selected decomposition products. This is the

preferred test apparatus and method for impact testing because the results are obtainable in

engineering units, which enable analytical comparison and easy ranking of materials for

sensitivity.

Reference:Allegheny Ballistics Laboratory and the Bureau of Mines.


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BOE Impact Test Apparatus

The DOT and DoD use the Bureau of Explosives (BOE) impact machine to determine

whether a material is too sensitive for transport by conducting a 10-trial screen test. This test

is presented as a means used to obtain initial impact data for a manufacturing classification.

However, a more thorough test using additional drop heights may be performed as needed in

order to conduct a hazards analysis.

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Electrostatic Discharge (Esd) Tests