Method and apparatus for generating a high-speed metallic jet

摘要

A high-speed penetrating metallic jet is produced using a projectile accelerated by a compressed gas or chemical propellant charge as the source of momentum and energy. The propellant charge and projectile are positioned within a tubular bore such as a gun barrel upstream from a discharge end. A metallic disc is releasably maintained in transverse relation within the bore between the projectile and discharge end. The projectile has a concave contoured impact plate of high density operative to strike the metallic disc upon ignition of the propellant so as to accelerate the disc outwardly from the discharge end while simultaneously causing the disc to collapse radially inwardly toward the barrel axis and create an elongated metallic jet. The invention finds particular application in the penetration of geological strata, concrete, steel, water and many other materials used in fabrication and construction whenever penetrations or perforations are desired.