Original Date: 02/28/2000
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Crane Army Ammunition Activity developed a method of removing Prop Charges in the demilitarization process of the 5"/38 cartridges. The equipment designed for this removal has greatly improved the process. Cost savings have been realized by the reduction of one worker through the use of this process.

Crane Army Ammunition Activity (CAAA) developed a method of removing Prop Charges in the demilitarization process of the 5”/38 cartridges that greatly improved the process. The equipment designed for this removal proved to be a great improvement in safety. Cost savings have been realized by the reduction of one worker through the utilization of this process.

The old method used to remove the Prop Charges involved the use of a Y-shaped device that pried the cap off the cartridge which was crimped on during the production process. This device proved to be inadequate in performing its function, thus requiring the worker to use a rubber mallet to assist in the removal. This labor-intensive method was causing back injuries to workers which resulted in absences and reluctance to perform this job. With the explosive nature of the charge, the use of the rubber mallet was a safety hazard as well.

CAAA developed a new method of removal with an air-operated pipe cutting machine that removes the cartridge below the crimped cap. This method allows for charge removal without the use of manual force and injuries, and restored a positive attitude in performing this job. The new method allows the process to be shortened to one operation and the number of operators required reduced from six to five. The cost to develop the machine is $30,000, realizing a savings and payback of invested dollars in one year, and a 10% increase in production rate.

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